A Wanderer and two Tideways joined us in our Wayfarer along with seven others from the UK Wayfarer Association for this cruise. Conditions can best be described as variable. We left the Royal Harwich Yacht Club on the Orwell under overcast skies with a very light SE wind. By Levington it was raining and the wind had veered more SSW. By the time we had regrouped to cross the shipping lane in the Stour at Harwich, we had a sudden squall and most boats quickly reefed as the wind picked up to a SW force 5. Across the bay and into the Backwaters the sun shone and we enjoyed a steady force 3-4 from the SW. It made interesting sailing with lots to do.

A relaxing picnic lunch at Stone Point, with little terns and avocets calling, was followed by a trip up toward Landermere Quay as far as the flooding tide allowed. It was still gusting force 4 as we set off, and some genoas were swapped for jibs, but the wind eased as we returned along Hamford Water. Exploring Oakley Creek, we found up to eleven seals watching us from the water or hauled out on the mud. Finally, we made our way to Titchmarsh in a gentle force 2 from the NNW.

We were accommodated well at the marina, with some camping aboard and some in land tents. Dining at the Harbour Lights proved more problematic, despite their having being warned ahead. Everyone managed to get fed eventually, but several crews were eyeing up the large mullet around the pontoons whilst they waited.

A gentle breeze from the SW blew us down the Walton Channel on Sunday. We looked in at Ha’penny Pier and anchored for lunch in the Orwell off Shotley. By now, the wind had found its way from the west to give us a beat up the last stretch home.

It was an enjoyable family cruise; we look forward to visiting the Backwaters again soon.

Wanderer David Hewett Tideway Martin Vincent Tideway Richard Crockett Wayfarer Anne and Dennis Kell Plus seven other Wayfarers from the UKWA Anne & Dennis Kell Emma W247