Over the weekend of 20th and 21st June, the fleet gathered at the RN&SYC at Lowestoft. On Sunday evening the crews gathered for the skippers briefing. James explained the weather forecast, route and gave advice on stowing the boats for sea and other safety related matters. After this the crews all socialised and ate the excellent food the club prepares. Everybody had a fairly early night in readiness for the next day’s adventure.
The sun was shining when we awoke. At 0900hrs Evita issued a VHF briefing & radio check. James explained that with a forecast of Westerly F3-4 the fleet would route closer in-shore to gain protection from the lee of the land.
Conditions were pleasant as we set off down the coast but it wasn’t too long before the first rain showers came through. The showers didn’t last too long as they passed through and the sun came back in between. As we cruised down the barrow deep conditions worsened with wind over tide conditions. The fleet slowed down for 10 miles as our 6.2 metre rib was struggling to keep up. As we got into the mouth of the river, conditions improved and the fleet picked up speed once more.
We arrived at St Kats at around 1800hrs after a very pleasant trip past the well known Thames landmarks and locked in. Everyone was tired and elated and the 48 strong party gathered at Zizzi’s in the middle of St Kats for a meal.
Over the next four days the crews relaxed, partied, went sight seeing, Boris biking, restauranting & sunbathed.
A decision to return to Lowestoft on Friday was overturned after it became clear that nobody wanted to go home – and the forecast for Saturday improved.
Locking out on Saturday morning the fleet enjoyed one of those rare days at sea when you could sit outside at 18 knots in a T-shirt and shorts. The sea was calm, the boats ran well and the only thing to worry about was applying enough sun cream.
Fabulous cruising in company.
