'Sandpiper' Returns Home

By far the most dangerous part of my sailing holiday at Poole Harbour was getting there and coming back. The roads were busy both ways. I was pleased to arrive home safe and sound, along with my family who had been camping at Sandford Park, near Poole. We were away for a week and had the best weather that was shared by Olympians and spectators alike. For the next three days there will be rain here in the SE of England. We were extremely fortunate.

The most exciting part of my cruise was during windy weather on Sunday, 12^th August. The boat was tested in the strongest winds so far. I have yet to examine the luff spar which may have become bent at the lower end. ‘Sandpiper’ performed well in winds of Force 4/5, even going to windward at 45 degrees. Attention had to be paid to getting the balance right between the jib and mainsail to bring about slight weather helm.  I was grateful to find a berth beside an Invicta near the entrance of the River Frome. There the reeds and small trees provided a lee.

The cruise was a great success bringing sailing in conditions from almost dead calm to gusts of Force 6. I had plenty of variety by anchoring at different spots: Shipstal Point, Cleavel Point, and Goathorn Point, plus one night at Poole Quay Boat Haven. Cleavel Point was the most sheltered and my favourite.

The great advantage of trailer sailing is that when you arrive home you can put your boat in the garage and there are no additional costs. ‘Sandpiper’ is resting there tonight and until she has her next adventure.