All at Sea with Stargazer
I live by the sea, maybe live for the sea, on an island in the tidal River Medway. Just downstream of the historic Chatham Naval Dockyard - where Nelson's Victory was built. For me the sea is about freedom and exploration - both personal and geographical. Stargazer is a 31' Hallberg-Rassy sloop; and companion on my journey
Friday 11 October 2024
Baptism
Sunday 22 September 2024
Dandelion 148
Stargazer carries the flood the full length of the Medway. Reaching Upnor village, at its equinoctial peak. With the river waters lapping at the front gates of the cottages. The slipway submerged.
On the opposite bank, the lock, of the former naval dry dock, remains resolutely closed. Lights red. Despite our vhf call, requesting admission to Stargazer's berth. The gates, part of the Gillingham flood defenses, cannot be opened until the tide height reduces. 'In about an hour.' Creating the time for a leisurely, cruise-end, pot of coffee.
The morning forecast check revealed that today was to be the last day of easterlies. Before a week of, sometimes strong, westerlies (head winds) set in. Plans for a Ramsgate reunion, with sailing friend Roger, are swiftly rescheduled. Stargazer puts to sea.
Inching her way up to the North Foreland. Close in beneath the cliffs. To dodge the worst of the foul tide. That we must sail over, in order to be in place to catch the fair tide, which will sweep us into the Thames Estuary and on up the Medway.
Saturday 21 September 2024
Dandelion 147
Stargazer and her skipper arrive in Ramsgate, in fine fettle. Scooting the fifteen miles, up from Dover, in a perfect twelve knots of summertime breeze. In one long fetch.
We leave Dover through the main ferry entrance. 'The Eastern.' We had expected to be held, whilst a suitable gap, in traffic, was found. But Port Control usher us straight through. Across the bows of a P&O arrival.
Which means that the tide has not yet turned in Stargazer's favour. When we emerge, to seaward. Into the full force of an equinoctial spring tide. One of the largest of the year. Fuelled by the pull of the Harvest Moon, which has filled the night sky.
Stargazer does well to make any progress atall. Although we tuck in close under the cliffs. In the hope of finding slacker water. Perhaps even an eddy.
At last, off St Margaret's at Cliffe, the tide turns. Stargazer picks up her pace. Her wind cleared of the influence of the South Foreland.
Friday 20 September 2024
Dandelion 146
The gale seems to be easing down. With the breeze due to go easterly (on the beam) tomorrow.
Stargazer's skipper's back is easing off. Responding well to the walking therapy.
Stargazer is itching to continue on her way home. Perhaps starting with a short test sail, for her skipper's sake.
Thursday 19 September 2024
Dandelion 145
Wednesday 18 September 2024
Dandelion 144
What preternatural powers, of healing, the human body has! For which Stargazer's skipper has cause to be grateful.
On arrival in Dover, my back went 'out.' With a boat to berth. Doing so, by commandeering a finger, onto which Stargazer would be blown. Held secure by the wind whilst I tottered unsteadily ashore, with her lines. (N.B. The wind has since switched direction. As witnessed by our ensign, in the picture).
On previous occasions, copious application of Ibuprufen gel, followed by continual gentle movement, has proved the best cure. Walking, especially on a gradient, steps or uneven surface, being particularly beneficial. On paths like those of Dover's East Cliff (which, confusingly, leads ultimately to the South Foreland).
Tuesday 17 September 2024
Dandelion 143
The two dock areas are separated by a shingle beach and shoreside promenade. Along which sheltered seating areas and ice cream stalls are set.
From the skyline, Dover castle casts a regal eye, over the ant-like seething and scurrying below.