Dandelion 72

 

A long horn blast shatters the stillness. As the first vedette of the day rumbles out to sea. Stargazer following close behind.

A mass exodus, of north-bound sailing craft, is on. For, this morning, the wind is in the west. Stargazer wastes no time, in overtaking the boat ahead. A thirty two foot Hunter Legend.

These are the conditions she loves: sixteen knots over the deck. All white sail set. Making just over seven knots, with a little tidal assistance.

Out to the northwest, an uncharted platform shows on the horizon. It looks as if the wind farm, off Houat, is being extended. I drop some markers, into the plotter. To serve, until an update is issued.

Stargazer takes her shortcut, inside Les Boeufs, off the tip of Noirmoutier.

Turning ninety degrees, to dip down into the Baie de Bourgneuf. Surfing on the swell. Making for a gap in the reef. Located by a top-mark, known as 'Notre-Dame.'

From there, it is a dead run in. Whilst Stargazer's deck is steadied by her mainsail, I ready lines and fenders.

For our entry, into the Breton port of Pornic