In Tension

 

In the still of Friday evening, I bring Stargazer alongside the crane dock. Ready for her annual lift out, arranged for Monday.

Weekend long, the weather holds.

But, on Monday, forty knot gusts race one another, along the length of the river. Squalls scurrying from winter into spring. Crane work is cancelled. Carefully laid plans are thrown awry.

Tuesday and Wednesday are forecast to be fair, before the next system rolls in. But both days are already fully booked. And the 'rules,' of the crane dock are that boats, which have their lift cancelled, must queue for the next vacant slot. With Easter in the offing, such openings are in short supply. 

Tension mounts.

The 'rules,’ however, rely on human interpretation. With Stargazer already alongside, and myself on hand, to unship her backstay and aid sling placement, she would be a quick lift. 

On Tuesday I arrive at the yard early, to see what opportunities the day may bring. Chatting agreeably, in the sunshine, with nautical passers-by. Lured outdoors, by the welcome prospect, of a change in the season.

The benign conditions speed the morning's work. And apply a balm of benevolence to proceedings. Taylor, multi-tasking Marina Manager and crane driver, ambles over to our conversational knot. "Reckon we can squeeze Stargazer in next, if you like?"

Stargazer is swung ashore. A growth, of underwater slime, testament to a (largely) mild autumn and winter. Pent up breath can be released. Preparations, for Stargazer's summer cruise, may proceed. 

My visit, to the French Visa centre, had yielded a six month Visa de Long Sejour, in yesterday’s post. (See French Connections). I have my ticket to summer.

Now it is time to ready Stargazer's hull, rig and engine. Whilst Sarah and Alan complete her new genoa, in the loft at Wilkinson Sails.