Autumn commences with a chance encounter

A chance encounter with Valentine afforded the opportunity to compare recent modifications

October sailing days seem more like sailing days gained rather than an expectation.  Today was a case in point with a high pressure lull briefly sandwiched between two cold fronts yesterday and (forecast) tomorrow.  Conditions were benign.  Passing the sugar beat factory at Bury St Edmunds, the plumes of smoke were rising almost vertically - not a promising sight for sailing!

Reaching the mooring at around 12.30pm, the first thing noticed was that the wildlife had largely left the new cover alone.  It still shone a 'new blue' although there was evidence of bird feet towards the rear.  Hopefully, the plastic bag deterrent will continue in its effectiveness.  The boat on the adjacent mooring has a whole flock of birds almost nesting along and underneath its similar blue cover, so there can be no room for complacency!

Motoring down to Shotley Spit for a lunchtime anchorage, the engine was sounding a little wobbly.  At various points, it sounded quite normal, almost 'sweet' but then it would waver, revs would inexplicably diminish; upon reawakening, the sound would become much harsher.  I wonder if this will be its last season... One more service, and we'll see.

More sailing amongst the big ships....

...although Trinity Docks were less busy than usual.

After lunch, the air began, at last, to flow - a mild southerly, barely F2, but sufficient for some tacking action through Harwich Harbour.  At LW, I turned for a slow run back to base.  

Valentine joins Daisy II for a return trip back to Pin Mill

 Returning to the mouth of the Orwell, coaster Valentine  turned up and we skippers enjoyed a gentle run reminiscing upon our wonderful summer cruise, as well as comparing the latest modifications we had each done.  Our new booms are almost the same but for a few small but important details.  Valentine now has a cleat on the mast which maintain the jaws at optimum height when the yard is lowered - a good idea and something for me to thing about!

On the Orwell, Peter snapped a seal hitching a lift on an inflatable tender!

11.5nm

The next sail, if we are granted another sailing day gained, will be in 6 days on Saturday when I may well have crew!  I should also see Daisy II break last season's distance record!