Pottering - Part 53

Things are improving; the clouds are getting higher; maybe blue patches will appear, and by tomorrow there will be bright sunshine. I live in hope.

To fill in a few hours I caught the bus to Paignton. At the harbour people wandered to the entrance, took a look at the grey scene, and retreated. There were no takers for fishing trips or tours of the Bay. The Pier was almost empty. Waves crashed on the beach.

By contrast, the pedestrian shopping precinct was crowded with shuffling holiday makers. Numerous fish and chip shops, gift shops and amusement arcades were doing a roaring trade. Even TESCO, LIDL and Iceland were doing well - but not much fun for the children, apart from eating ice creams and sweets.

Talking of contrasts, the simplicity of 'Sandpiper' by comparison with larger yachts at the Yacht Haven is marked, especially when considering electronic aids such as radars, alarms of various kinds, navigational aids and radio communications. Many of them are equipped with radar reflectors, solar and wind powered chargers. There are several with wind activated self-steering gears, and all the bigger yachts have complicated standing rigging, often with more than one set of spreaders and foresail furling. Some have life rafts.

Give me simplicity. There are benefits all round. With 'Sandpiper' I have less to worry about, less to maintain and less expense. Furthermore, I am independent, being able to sail the boat without the aid of other people.