Cruiser Laying up Rally to Bembridge Saturday and Sunday 10th – 11th October 2026

Published 12:50 on 15 Oct 2026 by Sue PEARSON

Originally, we had 10 boats signed up for this rally but unfortunately several dropped out due to the strong winds forecast and crewing problems. In the end 5 boats made it in Force 5 gusting 6 SW winds heading into waves to Bembridge – no chance of our usual lunchtime snack mid-Solent in those conditions and plenty of spray over the deck! Thankfully there were many hands on the pontoon to catch our ropes as the brisk breeze was blowing us off the pontoon as we tried to moor up.
Those that made it were Mandalay –Sarah and Martin, Fairwind – Sue and Barrie, Hobo – Pam and Ron, Altair – Liz and Rob and Osprey – Chris and Bridget.
There was quite a lot of activity in Chichester harbour as we (on Mandalay) made our way down. We were particularly entertained with ring side seats at the gybe mark for an International 14 race – not all of them made it! It took us about 3.5 hours to get to Bembridge – longer than usual due to a dirty bottom and the waves.
The marina staff were very welcoming and we were all accommodated on finger berths close to each other, rather than the rally rafting area even though some of us had used the rally discount. They also allowed us to use their marquee on the quay for pre-supper drinks on Saturday. We then went up to The Vine for supper, and rounded off with breakfast at the Baywatch Café on Sunday morning. Just to show that we don’t just eat and drink on these rallies, we had an impromptu sub-group of painters comparing notes! (Liz and Bridget).
In contrast to the testing conditions on Saturday, Sunday brought us no wind and sea as flat as a pancake – but it was sunny and warm and very little activity in the Harbour. A perfect end to our very enjoyable 2026 rally season.
Words and photos by Sarah (Rally leader) and Martin.