2014 - a weeks leave in late April

 

Early morning departure from Wicor, passing all the Navy's ships!  Sun rise over docklands.
 

The Coastguard protecting our coasts checking out vessels arriving in the Solent

Departing the Solent for the first time in 2104 after departing Wicor at 0545.

Arriving in Poole, the chain ferry and Haven Hotel, some of the most expensive real estate on the planet!

Safely moored in Poole Quay Boat Haven on A7 berth, empty after the Easter weekend rush

 

Joined by two other Tradewind 35's run by the Sea Cadets based in Gosport

 

A day trip (on a boat!) to Brownsea Island, landing on the Island

It takes about 2.5 hours to walk round the Island.  Despite being very quiet and looking keenly I never did see that red squirrel!

A fine feathered friend

View from Brownsea Island looking over the Purbeck coast

 

Now there is an anchorage to try just off Pottery Pier

 

Church field

Return trip, entering the Needles Channel on a misty day after a fast but choppy passage from Poole

 

Travelling up the Solent in think mist, less than 100 years. There is a Port Hand Bouy somewhere out there!

 

Reached Newtown Creek through the mist.  Not a bad spot to stay, Newtown Creek

 

 

Whilst relaxing in the cockpit I noticed the ring round the sun.  Apparently it is a sign of very high clound and that a front is on it's way.

 

 

Another fabulous sunset in Newtown Creek