When the programme was put together the three-day two-night cruise was planned for a trip to Chichester Marina with the next night being spent in Island Harbour, which is up the Medina River. However, in the end the two yachts went to Itchenor and then Bucklers Hard, because of lack of available berths due to the glorious forecast and the bank holiday. The high pressure combined with neap tides also made access to Island Harbour unwise.

Saturday morning saw the now standard routine of coffee and cake before both boats slipped from Portsmouth. One yacht sailed a direct route to Chichester Harbour whilst the other played with their asymmetric in the light breezes. With the harbour being so busy plans to link up with those camping at Cobnor was abandoned and the two boats made straight for the Itchenor to secure a buoy for overnight. Whilst on the buoys, conversations were had with the passing dinghies as they harnessed the light wind to challenge the tide up towards Dell Quay.

Meanwhile, on the yachts the evening started with refreshments in the glorious sunshine of chilled cider or Pimms – the only challenge for those sitting on the bathing platform of was to move quickly when the occasional big wash came through.

Sunday morning saw glorious sunshine and a relaxed start. A quick phone call to Island Harbour confirmed that with the high pressure they strongly advised us not to come because it was unlikely that we would have enough water over the lock to exit on the Monday. Some hasty phone calls did not identify many places to go but Bucklers Hard marina said they had space for both boats if we did not mind rafting on the fuel pontoon.

As the boats left the Itchenor buoys mid-morning there was not much wind but once out of the harbour there was enough wind for both boats to do some sailing. After a pleasant motor up the Beaulieu River both boats successfully tied up in time for tea and cake followed by some pre-dinner drinks.

With a change from the norm of eating out, and with the nice weather, a quick walk to the BBQing area, saw the men slaving over their hot stoves whilst salads and plates were put on the available tables. As the temperature cooled all returned to Emelita for dessert and cheeses suitably washed down with coffee, port, wine etc.

Monday again provided for a relaxed start
in some glorious sunshine. Most took the opportunity for a quick walk ashore and ice creams before departure. Who knew there was a little church next door to the Master Builders pub and in the ground floor of one of the cottages? As both boats exited the river one behind the other, following a motor down, it was time to become a sailing boat again. Following a VHF conversation off Cowes, it was agreed for a lunch time stop in a busy Osbourne Bay. There was too much swell for the boats to raft alongside each other but we anchored close enoughfor some goading between crews which resulted in them both going for a very short dip!

It is not certain who got out the fastest after jumping in! – but they both lied saying it was “lovely”. (Note wet suits and dry suits were not included).

Following a leisurely lunch there was still enough wind for a gentle sail back towards Gilkicker and onwards
into Portsmouth. Following more tea and cake, boats were tidied up and the rally was once more over.