October in the Solent

It was good to be back on the boat to enjoy some late season sailing in sheltered waters. On the 18th October we left our berth at Chichester marina at 15:00 to move up the harbour and anchor at Pilsey island for the night. The next day we headed into the Solent on our way to Hamble Point Marina.

Great excitement on board! when we spotted the Land Rover BAR AC45 foiling catermeran out practicing. Slight consternation when we realised that we were potentially on a collision course, with us as the stand on vessel on starboard tack, and very little time to make a decision. Should we keep clear of this high tech projectile? The decision was taken away from us when the AC45 tacked.

Land Rover BAR AC45. 

We had two nights in Hamble Point Marina. I was amused to look round some of the brokerage boats at Nordhavn Motor Yachts with an eye to continuing our aquatic way of life when we are too doddery for this sailing lark! 

Whilst in the marina we washed the decks and discovered the source of a leak which had been plaguing us since our rough passage to Dover. The rear starboard pulpit fixing had come loose and was allowing water to get into the forecabin leading to wet clothes and other items. We had investigated the waterproof hatch into the chain locker to no avail so were relieved to find the leak and get it sealed.

From Hamble Point we headed further west down the Solent and had one night in Yarmouth, one of our favourite destinations. 

Happy sailing on passage to Yarmouth.

Heading for Yarmouth.

On Sunday 23rd October the 0600 inshore waters forecast was for E or NE 5/7 so we decided to leave Yarmouth and head over to the shelter of the Beaulieu River. A fine beat up the Solent was had and 'Norman James' performed admirably against larger competition. Tweaking the outhaul to flatten and de-power the mainsail worked a treat allowing us to carry the full sail. Sue was in her element on the helm! No pictures as we were busy at the time. Also, no leaks, Hip Hip Hurray for us !!!  

We motored up the river to Bucklers Hard Marina where we booked in for two nights. Being so late in the season it was very quiet. The next day we walked to Beaulieu and had an excellent lunch at the Montagu Arms, a very fine home made Scotch egg and Ploughman's lunch was enjoyed.

Beaulieu.

Montagu Arms Hotel.

Path along the river from Bucklers Hard to Beaulieu.

Bucklers Hard Marina.