An English Summer 6

 

There are some decisions to be made today. In this corner of the Channel, the tide runs longer eastbound, than westbound. The answer, if bound west, is to make short, tide assisted hops, to suit. The next, single tide hop, from Sovereign Harbour is to Brighton.

Brighton, however, has just declared itself closed, to visitors. Much needed dredging work has, at last, been initiated . Inexplicably, this work is to be carried out over the summer. Our options are to either take a very short hop, around Beachy Head, into Newhaven; or to make a longer hop, with wind and tide against us, for half of it, into either Chichester or Langstone.

It is rare for us to choose to sail against the tide. Unheard of, for us to do so, with the wind also against us. However, the prospect, of reaching the scenic delights of Chichester or Langstone, is enough to overcome our reservations, on this occasion. Both are natural harbours offering anchorages, walks and historic towns to explore . Cruising gems.

Tucked in a side basin, of Sovereign Harbour, lies the fishing quarter. It is purpose built, as is the entire harbour complex.

Here the whelk boats land their catch.

For the main part, marine activity is of the leisure variety.

Canals link a series of basins. Each crossed by a lifting bridge. Perhaps inspired, in the minds of the architect and developer, by the Venetian model.

Each basin is surrounded by gated residential terraces, of varying height, density and opulence. 

An aquatic shopping mall, complete with chain restaurants and a supermarket, lines one side of the main basin. 

Functionally, Sovereign Harbour has provided us with good rest and shelter, at a convenient distance from Dover; and the opportunity to conveniently re-provision, at the on site Asda. Despite those considerable logical benefits, I cannot warm to the place . Brighton, from memory, is of similar design, but with more grey concrete in evidence. The vibrantly bohemian town, some distance away.

That is why, tomorrow, Stargazer will sail west, against wind and tide. My heart will guide us toward Chichester, although wind and weather may decide otherwise. I have fond memories, of a long hot, happy, childhood summer, some time in the seventies, based at Crab Searle's sailing school; then located, plumb on Emsworth Town Quay.

PS We are likely to be in late on Sunday. Emsworth Channel is shallow, close to the town, and high water is not until gone 22.00. Don't wait up, I will post on Monday!