It takes a team effort, to bring Moonbeam 1V alongside. A lookout, poised on the bowsprit, counts off the distance to the dock. As the foredeck hands ready heaving lines.
Concentration is called for at her helm. One hand on the wheel, the other on the throttle. Eyes forward, judging the moment to swing her head, toward the dock.
A head which bears the famous Dragon of Fairlie. The signature of William Fife.
Her long overhangs, such a boon in a seaway, and certainly a balm to the eye, require skill to manoeuvre in port.
The granite walls, of Brest’s Basin Number One, seem to shrink as she enters.
Her heaving lines are thrown. To be neatly caught and cleated, by the shore crew. The afterguard tail on attentively.
Whilst a securing turn is taken, on a midships winch, until they can be made fast aboard.
An unhurried dance. Thoroughly choreographed, with no need for orders to be given.
Sweetly alongside, the business of making her decks shipshape begins.
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