July 9th, Blackwater pre-rally sail



22.5nm; 243.5nm in total

 Next week is the Drascombe Association River Blackwater rally.  This week, couldn't be called a 'dry' run, because it was anything but dry, and the tides were doing the opposite of what will happen next week.  Hence, instead of being swept upstream, I was swept out to sea, and took the opportunity to take in the River Colne, as well as parts of Mersea Quarters.  Strong, gusty south westerly F4/5 led to some heavy seas, but great for a run with jib and mizzen.  Maximum speed over 6 knots.
Exhilarating day's sail which had the added excitement of hearing, and then witnessing the aftermath of a mayday call on the VHF - a boat claiming it had collided with another, and was taking on water.  Thames Coastguard sent out the troops, and I passed them as they were returning to Brightlingsea - boat, rescue boat, and interested flotilla.