Isle of Wight

We eventually left Brighton early on Wednesday morning with favourable winds, and a good pace all the way through the Looe Channel at Selsey Bill and on to the Isle of Wight. Stayed in Cowes overnight and now enjoying a relaxed morning before a short sail over to Beaulieu this afternoon.


Craig endures the usual morning rush hour!

Tying up loose ends, and a departure date

Well, what a week. We both took our Yachtmaster theory exam today, and both passed which was a relief since we'd delayed our departure in order to complete it. We're required to log about 5000 sea miles before taking the practical exam which hopefully this trip will provide. So, just a few more last minute jobs to finish off: calorifier circulation pump needs replacing and rewiring, domestic hot water tank leaking at the outlet needs a new adapter and seal. And our ground tackle (ie: anchors) needs reassembling having bought all new shackles and a new second anchor, chain and rode. So, we expect to be underway Wednesday morning.

Picture is of Jaime up the mast a few weeks ago replacing a nav light and radar reflector.

Preparations are underway

We've spent the last 6 months or so frantically preparing Lady Ayesha for sea. Our departure date is currently March 31st, but we'll need to keep an eye on the forecasts. Last minute jobs are almost complete, with victualling to be done late some evening this week thanks to 24hr supermarkets.