by Paul Turner » Tue Jan 26, 2021 2:50 pm
Hi all. Despite all the uncertainties I'm trying to begin the planning for the proposed rally at the end of May. At the moment I think 6 boats have confirmed: PT, Charles, Alistair & Katie, Malcolm, Phil, and Tony. Have I missed anybody.
I can understand why others may be holding back but it would be useful to have an indication of actual numbers. If you could let me know if there's a good chance you would join us if restrictions are lifted. I'm reasonably confident that by the end of May the marinas will be open and there will be at least some hospitality. Expressing an interest won't commit you but it will enable me to talk sensibly to the marinas.
Although there haven't been many sailing events the marinas themselves are very busy. I suspect some people will be slow to get their boats in the water so the hard standing may also still be very full at the end of May. I have been in touch with Cobbs Quay, in Poole, which is likely to be our base, and they have asked for a better indication of numbers before committing. When expressing an interest it would be useful to know whether you would drive and launch at Poole or sail in. E. G. I assume that Charles, Phil and I will sail in from the Solent and the other 3 boats will drive and therefore require parking and launching facilities.
The good news is that the OGA have confirmed that we are very welcome to join their rally in Yarmouth for the weekend beginning 3rd June even though most of us aren't members. They're also planning a final cruise from Yarmouth to Poole on Sunday 6th June so if you're able to stay until Sunday you can join that cruise back to base.
The rest of the rally will be similar to that planned for 2020. The tides are more favourable than last year so less early mornings and we may get a bit further East before joining the OGA in Yarmouth. For those planning the return to Poole the tides will allow you to leave the Solent any time after 8am on the Saturday and a bit later on the Sunday and it's about 4 hours back to Poole.
There's already a WhatsApp group from last year which I will amend to include any new participants and remove those who can't make it. You can contact me on the forum or by SMS or WhatsApp (07557856779).
Hope to hear from you soon.