Sailing trips appear even harder to organise but three boats made the four day rally a great success and all of those participating enjoyed the great weather with gentle breezes that assisted us by coming from the right direction.

Honfleur, Alex’s Nauticat 33, had slight technical issues with over zealous crew and chief winchman (Wolfie). Genoa winch now needs some TLC over the winter lay up.

John and crewmate Derek on the Shrimper Skylark sailed the farthest coming from North Fambridge on the Crouch to Bradwell and then Brightlingsea on Saturday and Harwich on Sunday. Strange how the elders of the fleet sail the longest route in the smallest boat, Well done John and Derek.

Ariel Spirit had former Soca member John Robertson taking time out from his narrowboating around the uk network to join in some offshore fun.

Highlights were dinner in Colne Yacht Club where we were met by Oonagh, club secretary and made very welcome and a very convivial dinner in the Alma at Harwich where John R enjoyed a very large Lobster.