This month’s MSC Dinghy cruise was on Saturday 5th April and led by Colin Wardell.
The weather forecast had predicted a wind strength of F4 – gusting 5 to 6, north easterly, temperature 10-12 degrees, low water was around 12.36. The prevailing conditions meant that a sail down river was the best option leaving the hard at around 11.00 for a beat down river with the last of the flood tide, maybe stopping on Thirstlet spit as the tide falls for a quick lunch break.
11 club members were in attendance and several boats were available to use. After careful consideration the decision was made to take 3 Wayfarers, two of which having 4 aboard and the last boat with 3 crew. All three boats were prepared with double reefed main and small jib. The Wayfarer dinghy is quite capable of handling these conditions, it’s more a matter of whether the intrepid crew can cope. We headed off on our intended course out across the river and tide through the chop and spray.
The consensus amongst the 3 boats was to keep our options open and to make this cruise a short affair. The fleet kept at close quarter and chose to return safely to shore around 40 minutes later. All in all it was a good opportunity to test the capability of the boats (and crew) in stronger wind conditions.
Once ashore we were able to spend a few hours tinkering around with boats in the sunshine, what better way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
Report and pictures courtesy of Martin Maloney.
