Page 79 - The Cormorant 2018

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and a turndown service, whilst the more austere quarters on the other yachts encouraged some sailors to sleep outside, escaping the snoring of their messmates.
The following day’s passage to France started well with a moderate breeze taking the flotilla past The Needles and into the Channel, but the wind gradually faltered and so we motored much of the way, moving into watches overnight towards France in time for the World Cup.
Although occasionally frantic, on the whole sailing does give you time to reflect and discuss. Viewing the approaches to Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc and the Mulberry Harbour from our small vessels at sea as well as visiting these historic landmarks as part of the Staff Ride really emphasised the incredible bravery, sacrifice and achievements of the D-Day sailors, soldiers and airmen.
Having swapped crews, the return passage was equally enjoyable, if lacking in wind. The yachts headed variously to Bembridge, Yarmouth and Poole before meeting up again for a run-ashore in Cowes, where crooner Fred duetted with the pub guitarist
in The Anchor Inn, a favoured watering hole on the Island.
Exercise Cormorant Dash was the perfect complement to the Finale of ACSC 21.