Tom, the friendly viking, six foot something of flowing beard and braids, brings his floating home, Eio, alongside. Leaving Stargazer visible only by the orange fender perched upon her pulpit. Eio, on closer examination, sports much new hardware: windlass, rigging, deck fittings, windows and electronics. Signalling an imminent intent to wander.
Maybe the mercurial early May weather has deterred the Northney denizens. Or perhaps it is the late high water times. Either way it is a soporific Bank Holiday Sunday in harbour. With few boats stirring.
A chance for Stargazer's skipper to scrutinise the weather forecasts, for a window in which to sail west. The indications are that the breeze may shift easterly, and pick up to passage making proportions, on Wednesday.
Some tidal dexterity is needed. For Stargazer requires: depth in the Northney entrance and on Chichester Bar, plus a fair tide at Hurst narrows. Preferably depth in the North and Looe Channel short cuts too. There are also bridge lift times to consider, once in Poole.
Fortunately, the spring tide is today. Meaning that depth constraints will reduce through the week. Whilst the wind, we hope, prepares to turn fair.
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