Ad Lib 56

 

Before Stargazer's skipper can sample the scenic delights of his surroundings, certain formalities must be observed.

A short stroll away, at the ferry terminal. Where the EES (Schengen Entry & Exit System) awaits. Subject of lurid scare stories, concerning airport delays, missed boardings and gridlock in the streets of Dover. It takes a full sixty seconds to scan my passport, snap my photograph and sample my fingerprints. Roscoff has seemingly perfected the new system's operation.

The sun symbolically disperses a thin veil of cloud. I am free to wander France. My footsteps, naturally lead to the Vieux Port. There to purchase my first 'Tradition' of the season. (Baguette de Tradition Francais - legally mandated to be wholly made on the premises. Using only flour, salt, water, plus [optionally and rarely] yeast). Along with a small wheel of ripe Camembert, and some plump full flavoured tomatoes, with which to fill it.

Over lunch, I study the Meteo Consult weather outlook. Sailing conditions will soon resume. With cooperative tide times to support them. The latter critical off this rugged corner of Finistere.

 Stargazer will need to move swiftly, once the breeze returns on Saturday. Making a passage to L'Aber Wrac'h, before it turns westerly (a headwind Roscoff to L'Aber Wrac'h) on Sunday. Pit stopping overnight. Before pressing on to Camaret. There to ride out a hard, three or four day, south westerly blow. Under the lee of the Crozon peninsula. With shelter for Stargazer and shoreside diversions for her skipper. We shall call this Plan A.