Saturday 7th June, late afternoon sail

June looks very much as though it is going to be a frustrating month, in terms of other commitments marginalising sailing opportunities.  Knowing that next weekend will be busy and that a concert is planned for tomorrow, it was important to take advantage of Saturday's evening tide, despite a lousy forecast which was talking in terms of 'monsoon rains' - fortunately over-hyped as ever.
Winds were F3 SW, initially with some stronger gusts, but dwindling to nothing beyond 6pm.  There was plenty of time for a gentle sail upstream with the neap tide towards the Orwell Bridge, and then returning.

Whilst on the water, there was a welcome and surprisingly rare opportunity for a good look at a Bayraider in action - couldn't really tell the length, possibly 17 foot?  She looked like a splendid boat - not quite the graceful lines of a Drascombe, but very much in the same spirit and, I understand, with some very compelling safety features - 'rightability' paramount amongst these.  I prefer the cabined 'Baycruiser' versions but much enjoyed seeing this boat today.

Bayraider on the Orwell

 Other things of note include the return of Lugger Morwenna to her mooring at RHYC, a companion for coaster Valentine, whose new cockpit cover was seen and admired.  A replacement for Daisy II's cover is being planned.

Lugger Morwenna has returned to her mooring opposite RHYC, a companion for Valentine

Whilst I have enjoyed this sail on countless occasions, this stretch of water never fails to disappoint and, even for a couple of hours on the water, is always worth the lengthy road trip either side.  Three sails hoisted in all their glory.

6.4nm

Regretfully, no sailing next weekend but planned sailing on the 'longest day' the following week!