A Cape Cutter 19, I have been back on the East Coast for three seasons. I had the indignity of remaining trailer-bound for the first of those seasons in 2022, awaiting my prospective crew to earn their ‘Sail-Fit’ badge. When they achieved this, early in 2023, plans for the season were solidified, including OGA60 and the East Coast Summer Cruise. This time it was the weather-elves who frustrated my plans. So, just over a week ago, I was delighted to arrive in Shotley Marina for the start of the 2024 Summer Cruise. I won’t log the details of the itinerary, which are covered by others, but offer my personal ‘insights’ gained or confirmed by the week.
Engines aren’t all bad. Sailing to the Deben from Shotley we beat out of the Orwell against wind and tide in breezy but sunny conditions. I was reminded how judicious use of the engine with the sails can greatly speed windward progress, particularly when dragging a bushel or two of barnacles (must look for a more dedicated crew).
OGA society is munificent. Without my tender, ‘Microw’, I was in danger of never getting any peace and quiet. But the OGA is blessed with wonderful people who took my crew ashore for a while when we moored at The Rocks and Stone Point, and drove them to the Naze Tower whilst at Walton. Thank you. I couldn’t have lasted the week without your help.
Depth is not the only factor. Encouraged by members local to the Deben, benign weather and a ‘first-principles’ assessment of the risks I confirmed that lifting keels make LW exits of that river fun when we departed for Walton on the Naze. And the momentary stress was rewarded with a delightful three-sail, fair-tide reach in the sunshine to the West.
Crew can be useful. On many occasions I have wondered why I have to suffer my crew. This thought came to me again as I beat out of the Backwaters towards Pin Mill whilst half the fleet raced around Pennyhole Bay. On both port and starboard tacks I didn’t really need that hand on my tiller. But I do concede that I would have piled up on a beach somewhere without help in going about.
Anti-fouling is not just for bottoms. Pin Mill is blessed with many ‘clusters’ of Turnstone, their cheerful chattering a common sound. And they are generous to a fault, freely donating their multi-coloured guano. But I have not found it to improve my looks, even when rubbed in. I now wear Ena Sharples inspired protection.
‘Minnie’, Cape Cutter 19 number 85
You must be logged in to post a comment.