Dandelion 71

 

The fifty strong fleet, of the Vendee Ports Race for Cruisers, arrives on the Ile d'Yeu. En masse. A rip roaring north wind at its tail.

"Welcome to the Hotel California. . . ." 

The reason, for restricting the exit of boats, becomes clear. As the competitors manoeuvre in the narrow entrance and fairway. Only one way traffic is possible. This afternoon, Port Joinville. . . .

 ". . . .is programmed to receive. You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave."

Most swing, before reversing onto the long reception pontoon (of Stargazer’s arrival night). A companion is swiftly directed to raft alongside. The operation controlled, from shoreside, by a swift moving matriarch, in striped top and ochre trousers.

". . . . she lit up a candle and she showed (them) the way."

Once secured, the crews sit back in their cockpits. To relive their wild ride south, from Noirmoutier, over an ‘apero.’ 

"They're living it up at the Hotel California. . . . the pink champagne on ice."

Stargazer has a ringside seat. Tucked away on 'cruisers row,' where we (few) remaining visitors, from further afield, have congregated.

"Plenty of room at the Hotel California. . . . Such a lovely place."

Credits

'Hotel California' by Don Henley, Glen Frey and Don Felder. 1976.