Well, here we are again, the last night before we putter up the Solent and end our voyage in Southampton.
Yesterday we came up past the Needles while the harbour stow was done, giving some a bird’s eye view, assuming they could escape Leslie’s eagle eye.
We anchored in Yarmouth Roads, and then were invited into the bar where Neil donned his auctioneer’s hat so that he could flog off a few of Nellies treasures, namely a brand new chart showing our course from the Canaries to Southampton, suitably decorated by none other than Mr Bagpuss himself, the Red Ensign that has been flying at the stern for some months, and another slightly more tatty chart that the Marcin the navigator used on a daily basis to let us know where he thought we might be. These three items raised about £550!
Barry the first mate then entertained a captive audience with his guitar and a medley of old Beatles songs.
This morning I was once again rudely evicted from my bunk so that they could raise the starboard anchor, this is the second time in two day’s that this has happened; there is another one on the other side you know!
We then motored up to Cowes where we picked up Stormalong John Etheridge so that he could practise piloting the ship in to Cowes harbour.
Once we had tied up we were set free again while the permanent crew removed more sails for repair.
Tonight most of us are dining ashore at the Island Sailing Club.
Another event that took place this morning was a group photo of the JST 70+ club.
Will Nellie still be in commission when Jack Graves inaugurates the 100+ club? Just watch this space……
Lou Lyddon, FP.