The Royal Wedding didn't seem to put people off, although some arrived early and adjourned to the Yacht Club to watch, whilst others arrived later once the proceedings had concluded. The biggest difference the wedding made to most was the almost total of absence of traffic on the roads. - I've seen the M25 busier at 04.00 am.....
In all 31 boats, skippers and crew arrived and were safely launched and tied up in time for the meal at Chichester Yacht Club that evening. After the meal, following a brief welcome, all round introductions and a toast to the happy couple, some of us sat back to watch and listen to the thunder and lightening swirl around the marina, whilst others who left a little earlier got wet on the walk back.
The following morning dawned bright and sunny but with strong winds from the NE (F5/6). Following a briefing that broke a promise that we were not going to Dell Quay, and some advice about the lock, the fleet set out under jib and mizzen or well reefed mains to go to ..... Dell Quay.
This was useful, as some needed a shake down sail to sort the boat and others were new to their boats and wanted to find out a little more about them in open water before getting involved with moorings and crowds around Itchenor.
The fleet then made it's way to Bosham, were a few landed briefly before being scared off by the £6 charge and the rapidly reducing water levels. Lunch was taken on buoys or at anchor before most of the fleet set off back towards the marina. A few intrepid souls headed down towards East Head but reported that the journey back was a tough one, against the wind.
Veronica and Bob kindly brought the trestles and ladders later that evening so that the traditional ladder BBQ could take place - which went very well and was accompanied by music from the usual suspects and a presentation to Josh Hill by Stewart Brown, of the Churchouse trophy that is awarded annually to the individual who most personifies the Drascombe way of life. Well deserved Josh.
Sunday was a repeat of the first day - good weather but strong winds so Dell Quay was favoured again. Lunch for some was taken on a dragging anchor in what little shelter the harbour offers in a strong NE and was followed by a sail down the harbour and a motor back again. The yacht club appeared to be the favourite for most for a evening meal although some hardy souls had another BBQ.
Monday proved too much for most with even stronger winds - a few did venture out but most came back in quite quickly, apart from Douglas H who seemed to think the wind was just right for him.
The sea arrivals departed by train to collect trailers - discretion winning the day, whilst the others pulled out one by one and set off for home.
A very enjoyable weekend all round
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