Report on the ‘Not Henry Again!’ Castle Cruise No. 5
The wind forecast was westerly force 6 gusting force 8 for Tuesday 10th September, so 4 of the fleet made sail on the Monday and were safely secured before the blow. A further 4 skippers decided to make the journey to Gosport by road to join in the activities.
Thus, the Hybrid Cruise was born!
As the rain fell, a pontoon party was held in the relative dry of Avalon’s cockpit.
The gallant CYC fleet gathered in Gosport Marina on a bright and blustery Wednesday morning for the ferry crossing to Old Portsmouth and the onward walk, quiz sheets in hand, to one of Henry VIII’s favourites, Southsea Castle. The No 3 bus provided suitable alternative transport.
After an enjoyable and informative tour of the castle, the fleet retired to the nearby watering hole of the D Day Museum Café where, in a sheltered and sunny spot, suitable refreshment was taken.
Before allowing the fleet to disperse to the delights of Gunwharf Quays and other dens of iniquity, it was subjected to a game of Molky, the result of which was influenced by the strong breeze and uneven ground. Remiga was a worthy winner as the other players crashed out.
The final evening was spent at Bobby’s Italian Restaurant, where we were well fed and ‘watered’. The quiz results were announced with Sounio claiming the winner’s prize after a tie break with April Folly. The winning crew shared the spoils with the rest of the fleet!
By Thursday morning the wind had abated somewhat and the fleet enjoyed a relaxed onward journey.
Many thanks to Coco, Sounio, April Folly, Good Day Sunshine, Topsy, Rascallion and Remiga for helping us to continue with the cruise despite the forecast on the first day. Where to next time?
Tim & Beryl, Avalon of Hamble
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