Laying up Rally to Bembridge 2023
Laying up Rally to Bembridge
Saturday 14 October - Sunday 15 October 12023
In the end, 4 boats joined us, 9 people and of course our resident sea dog Toby.
- Mandalay Martin Sarah and Toby
- Fairwind Sue and Barrie
- Roussillon Chris Sprules, Andy, and Tim
- Osprey Chris Playford and Janet
High tide was at about 12.30 at Dell Quay, so we aimed to set off at 10.00, but as usual it was a bit later. We had an excellent sail across with a good W - WNW breeze F4-5, blue skies with fluffy cumulus clouds drifting across. We had 2 reefs in the main, which was just as well as we had a few interesting gusts round the Isle of Wight headlands, causing the helm to shout Close the Slot Close the Slot to prevent being catapulted downhill to the other deck.
All boats were safely moored up in the rally area by lunchtime, which left plenty of time to enjoy the delights of Bembridge.
We all gathered aboard Mandalay for pre dinner drinks before walking round to Brading Haven Yacht Club
Toby sunbathing on the deck
Pre-dinner drinks on Mandalay
Brading Haven made us very welcome in our own private dining area, as they had a Birthday Bash in the main clubroom. Our meal choices had to be made in advance, but we were given the option of the Rally menu and the a la carte menu.
High Tide on Sunday was about 13.00 at Dell Quay so we all decided to gather for breakfast at the Baywatch. Some of us were somewhat reluctant to do this as it was really too cold to eat outside, but fortunately they allowed us to eat inside. I wonder whether it is under new management! You still get a cooked breakfast in a Bap served in cardboard boxes though.
The various techniques for tackling a Full English in a Bap were studied with interest, luckily Toby was on hand to clear up any accidental droppings a job he did very diligently. The company was so convivial that we slightly lost track of time and had to leg it back to our boats before the tide ran out.
We had glorious sunshine and blue sky all the way back. Wind was variable F2-4 WNW, Northerly later.
What a lovely way to end the season. I look forward to seeing you all on the water next year, and at the social events this winter.
Last updated 19:49 on 10 June 2024
