Trip to Harwich

Showers were never far away but we managed to avoid the worst

We (yes, a rare trip with crew) took a chance on a dodgy rain forecast and, for the most part, came out on top.  The one minor blot was the lack of success at finding a lunchtime berth at Halfpenny Pier.  I also didn't play the tides too wisely, thinking more of a preferred destination rather than going with the flow.  In so doing, the engine was used more than I would have liked but, on the other hand, we managed to avoid a nasty shower which passed over Pin Mill soon after lunchtime.  Additionally, by and large, the engine behaved well.  So it was 'swings and roundabouts' - or perhaps as sailors could say 'tacks and jibes...'?!

The other event of significance, today, was Daisy II breaking her season's distance record.  Winds were F2/3 southerly.  We motor sailed against the tide over to Harwich and then sailed back to a point just west of the entrance to Levington Creek where the wind died and the above photo was taken.  At this point, anticipating some rain, the sails were furled and we motored back to the mooring.

10.2nm

With any luck, the current total should pass 700nm by the end of the month although, with Autumn now well and truly upon us, the weather will have the final say!  The plan is for a two-three day shiver-aboard cruise during the early part of the half-term week at the end of October.