Page 12 - Yachter Autumn 2020

12 CRUISING REPORTS
CRUISING IN 2020
The RSYC Cruising calendar 2020 was hit hard by the Coronavirus. Weather played a part in cancelling the last rally of 2019 to Newtown Creek due to an unfortunate force 10 passing down the Solent, and then we were not due to start again until Easter. Well that was not going to happen as all the marinas, boatyards and sailors were well and truly ‘Locked Down’.
When the restrictions started to ease
in June, a few boats made it to Gins for Lauren’s ‘Perfect Pizzas’, and in July our
first rally was to Portsmouth. Dinner at what we remember as the Mary Mouse, now Trinity’s Lightship was excellent though the technology of ordering by smart phone
was an obstacle the staff were gracious in helping us to overcome. Port Solent offered many watering holes and later our six
boats picnicked in Osborne Bay en-route
to Cowes. Sun and fair seas and excellent company made for a perfect Cruising atmosphere for a late start to the season.
In August the Parade of Sail was cancelled due to the problems of large crowds anticipated onshore hoping to watch the myriad of vessels, sail, power, historical and official pass by in honour of the Mayflower’s departure from Southampton 400 years
ago. However, we continued to plan for the Rally to Plymouth 15-25 August following COVID-19 restrictions.
Bembridge prepared for a busy season with more finger pontoons and confirmed our rally for 5 September. It has always been a success in flying kites, boules on the beach and other fun and games, not just for grown-
ups. September 19/20 we were booked to visit Island Harbour to hold on to the last of the season afloat. Subject to further easing of COVID-19 restrictions, The Laying Up lunch is planned for 31 October at Gins and on 13 November, take a chance with our ‘Lucky for Some’ Dinner at Gins.
Bring a friend, but please book ahead with Maggie at RSYC 023 80223352
Ideas for Cruising 2021 to Laurie
Bates, lauriebates@mac.com. Help us make RSYC Cruising what you want it to be.
Laurie Bates Captain of Cruising