Stargazer crosses the massed rally fleet (see Ad Lib 85) as their starting gun fires, off the Ile d'Yeu. Such is the unexpected speed of our passage.
We left L'Herbaudiere at daybreak. Following the fishing fleet as they put to sea.
Via the Chenal de la Grise. Which turns out to carry two knots of tide, as well as saving distance. A valuable discovery, indeed.
The thrust, of the tide, plus a respectable northerly night-breeze, sees Stargazer cantering comfortably, over a long easy swell, at better than six knots.
We gybe off the corner of the windfarm. To counter a cross current as we approach our island destination. Already visible on the horizon.
Before elevenses, Stargazer is gliding between the Port Joinville pierheads. Her skipper on the radio to the Capitainerie, to request a berth.
"Faites votre choix." Take your pick. With the race heading for L'Herbaudiere, Stargazer is the only visitor in port.
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