Marchwood Rally 14-15th September

Published 13:10 on 16 Sep 2024

Although we were expecting no wind, we all had a pleasant motor or slow sail up the Solent in flat water and warm sunshine however by the time most boats had reached Calshot, a breeze had picked up allowing a good sail up Southampton water. En Route we had plenty to watch, Waverley, the paddle steamer, passing us early on, then a large tanker berthing at Fawley, the Boat Show antics and 4 cruise ships alongside, with 10 POG boats arriving at Marchwood Yacht Club by early afternoon. We were welcomed by their volunteer Officer of the Day John, and assigned our berths. The usual late arrival completed our 'fleet' of 11 boats and 26 members. The afternoon was spent relaxing in the lovely weather or, for the more adventurous, walking and exploring the area. Many of the boats had completed the 'Ropework task' with varied levels of success.

After watching as one of the World's largest container ships was swung by tugs not far from our precious boats, everyone managed to be at the bar for when it opened. We had the usual Observation Quiz but, when marking the answers, I could not understand why no one knew how many passengers had been on the Waverley when it arrived in Portsmouth!

We all sat down to a 3 course meal, some washing it down with more liquid from the bar than others. To take any pain out of paying we were entertained by Jeremy on his squeeze-box. Some members even bursting into song.

Sunday started with a lovely sunrise and 18 members sat down to a 'Full English' at the club before setting off for the passage back to Gosport in ideal sailing conditions. Before leaving one crew even walked to Eling and visited the Tide Mill and its Cafe. There were 6 different Cruise ships on show for our return past the docks. One boat did have its forestay fail, off Hamble Spit, but was able to 'jury rig' and return to POG under power unaided, Well done.

Hopefully we will be able to repeat the success of this rally next year, but with a few more boats.

Mark

Last updated 19:35 on 16 September 2024