Hurrah! Our dreams of sailing to the Mediterranean may soon become reality! We returned to Cornwall towards the end of April and kept ourselves busy during our quarantine by scrubbing the boat and putting up the sails and running rigging. On our joyous release from isolation the winds picked up…and up. We spent most of May sitting out numerous storms with more than 50 knot winds. Whilst shopping in rainy Truro we had a scary call informing us that the pontoon cleat securing Merryn had been ripped out, such was the wind strength, and she was only partially secured. Happily there were lots of people around and the marina staff saved the day, with no damage done.
Last week, thank the heavens, the weather improved and we finally had a a calm day to take Merryn out into the Carrick Roads to swing the compass. As we suspected the compass was out by 5 degrees on several points of sail and Karl spent an hour making the appropriate adjustments so we can now sail a truer course. It was wonderful to see such a traditional marine profession in action. Jonathan was also concerned that our bottom had become a bit weedy so we headed up river for a lift-out and pressure wash. This also allowed us to attach the rudder of the hydrovane- difficult on a rickety ladder- but it would have been impossible to do from the water.
So finally, with virtually all jobs done, glorious sunshine, calm seas and freedom to see friends again, we headed out from Falmouth. We gave Gill some sailing lessons, returning for a fabulous meal in Falmouth.
We then, slightly foolishly, headed up to Fowey at the start of the Bank Holiday weekend. It was unbelievably busy, lots of sailing rallies had finished there, so boats were rafted on all the pontoons and visitors buoys. Meandering through town it felt as though most of England had come to holiday in Cornwall, with beaches crowded, pubs full and restaurants all booked out. Fortunately all was convivial and it felt wonderful that businesses were busy and everyone was having fun. We had a fabulous walk around Gribbin Head to Polkerris, returning to Fowey via the Saint’s Way and my favourite bus shelter. This year the theme is ‘Gone Sailing’, ideal for us before heading of to distant shores.
We’re now back in Falmouth and making our final preparations ready to sail across the Biscay. The boat is well provisioned, we’ve tested the water maker and plan to trial the hydrovane on a final sail to our favourite spot in the Helford river. Our crew, Peter and Jon, will join us this weekend and, weather permitting, we plan to depart on Sunday – next stop Portugal.
I’m so excited for you both! Love the blog, and am honoured to be featured in it!
I hope this trip turns out to be as fantastic as it sounds, you both deserve it so much after all the trials and tribulations of the last 15 months. I’m looking forward to reading your adventures.
Bon Voyage!!
Gill X
Looks amazing Cate Jonathon and Gill
Have a safe trip