Visit to Royal Harwich YC, River Orwell, July 2005

The weekend of 30th-31st July saw a flotilla of Etaps visiting the Royal Harwich Yacht Club with its excellent pontoons and clubhouse, situated on the west bank of the Orwell, just below Woolverstone Marina. Although the weather forecast was mixed, we enjoyed good sailing conditions from our various bases on the Crouch, Deben and Blackwater, tying up just before the arrival of a band of heavy rain. Seeking shelter from the elements, we settled down to tea and delicious scones in the clubhouse, re-convening later for the cruise dinner, at which eight boats were represented. Thanks to the comfortable surroundings and the fine meal provided by the RHYC, we all enjoyed a very convivial evening.

The next day, we awoke to a forecast of NE5/6, which was not ideal for the voyage home. Luckily, things improved throughout the day and we all left on schedule, vowing to repeat the event next year.