The peal, of cathedral bells, dispels any doubts about the condition of the ancient tower, in which they are housed. Filling the town square with a joyously uplifting sound. This Sunday morning, as I fetch Stargazer's daily baguette ration. Doubling up, to see us through the boulangerie's day off, on Monday. Or, perhaps, through a day on passage.
There being some uncertainty on that point. For, whilst tomorrow's tide is fair, the robust weekend wind seems inclined to stay on into Monday. That it is easterly has become less of a concern. With Stargazer (red chevron) now able to angle south, to gain a favourable slant. Post Brexit, the option to angle north, to the Channel Islands, is denied us. Due to the need to depart Schengen at a ferry port (Roscoff, Saint-Malo or Cherbourg, on this stretch of coast), in order for passports to be ceremonially stamped.
In the harbour, a brace of purposeful looking Boreals is assembled. Lower and leaner than the Alubat (Ovni) and Garcia interpretation of the, quintessentially gallic, aluminium hulled, centreboard, expedition yacht brief. The craft newly launched, to judge by the shiny silver, of their hull patina, lie on the pontoons, awaiting their owners. A stone's throw from the yard which built them. (See Zen Again 78
for the inspiration behind this unique boatbuilding genre.)
One, a trifle greyer and more travel stained than the rest, appears overnight. Perhaps after a sea-trial cruise. Before making the trans-Atlantic trip to her port of registry. At any rate, attracting the attentions of two Douane officers. Out for an amiable stroll and a chat, in the sunshine. . . . .whilst inspecting passports, aboard non-Schengen flagged vessels. The length, of Stargazer's skipper's stay, causing some disquiet, until his Visa de Long Sejour is discovered.
Picture Credits
Stargazer chart screenshot courtesy of Garmin Navionics.
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