Hamble Adventures Rally Report

Twelve boats were booked in at Swanwick Marina for Monday 17^th July. The wind and sea state were a bit challenging, but ten boats arrived safely and were slotted into various finger berths between A and G pontoons, amongst some enormous motor boats.

It was still cool and breezy for the evening pontoon party and as Legato was berthed on the outside of the hammerhead on A pontoon, we were in danger of the nibbles being blown away! Some people who had arrived later were also feeling a bit tired or seasick.  So we elected to hold the pontoon party on board Legato. With twenty people comfortably seated on board, the Hunter Legend lived up to its reputation as a party boat!

On Tuesday the final two yachts arrived in much nicer weather conditions and we all set off up river in a convoy of eleven dinghies. Some were trying out their new electric outboards for the first time with great success. We travelled up river three miles for a drink at the Horse and Jockey riverside pub at Curbridge, on the stand of the tide. Then as the tide started to ebb we set off back downstream with everyone stopping for a picnic lunch at the Manor Farm pontoon (River Hamble Country Park). Later a very enjoyable group meal at The Old Ship, Lower Swanwick ensued.

Wednesday morning was another lovely day with light winds and lots of sunshine. So we all set off in dinghies again, this time the destination was The Jolly Sailor on the Bursledon side of the river. It was fun to tie up on their walk ashore pontoon and sit on the sunny terrace to enjoy a variety of coffee, cakes and lunches. Later in the afternoon twelve of us did a five mile riverside walk from Swanwick to Warsash and back. This was followed by own dining on board or alternatives.

Thursday dawned as a beautiful day for our departures. Some were going back to their home berths but about eight boats continued on to Buckler’s Hard for the start of the next cruise.

Thanks to Aquadisiac, Rascallion, Dawn Chorus, Star Dancer, Pim, Good Day Sunshine, Aspen, Coco, Quintette, Sounio and Raven for coming along and joining in with such enthusiasm.

Sarah and Peter (Legato)