Alternative Christmas dinner – a festive fleet outing

Once again, Chris Williams organised a Christmas-themed fleet event that was open to anyone sporting a Christmas sweater and bringing an appetite. Jeff Tregenza brought his Naiad, Pochard V, from Gosport to help support the occasion, with Dave B, Chris, and Anthea as crew. Only two boats were available at Port Solent, so the extra boat was much appreciated by everyone involved.

Elfida’s return to the water

Elfida was making her first appearance since her winter lift-out and repair, and the crew ensured everything was in order the night before. Peter, Phil, Tim, Darce, and Stephen took charge of getting Elfida ready for the event. Departure was taken very carefully at high water, and the lock operated in free-flow for the first time in my experience. Quick but a little turbulent.

The plan was to take the boats to Swanwick (Premier) and enjoy a dinner at the Old Ship Inn. While the weather was initially overcast, the forecast promised winds at 190º, 9-16kn, and a mild 12ºC with some sunshine. As is customary, a hole formed in the cloud above the Solent, and all three boats enjoyed some impressive performance in a patch of brilliant sunshine.

Smooth sailing and spirited competition

It was close, but Elfida, freshly cleaned and polished, performed exceptionally well in the flat water. This provided a perfect opportunity for some boat-to-boat photography, which will be used for the next website update. Though the still shots were dramatic, video footage will require a stabilised mount.

Elfida made her way to a mooring buoy behind Calshot Spit before the pasties burned. Meanwhile, the other two boats raced up the Hamble towards Swanwick. As the evening drew in, Carina, skippered by Mike, with Malcolm, Steve B, Tim H, and Bob, won the best-dressed boat competition. Elfida had no decorations on board.

The Old Ship Inn was in full festive spirit, and the staff handled our orders promptly, ensuring everyone was well-fed. The food was excellent, and not specifically Christmas-themed, which made a welcome relief in the middle of the eating season. The evening conversations ranged from cruising plans for the next year to inheritance tax on family farms.

The return journey

Sunday morning was relaxed as the crew awaited the positive tide downriver. The full-English breakfast was declined, so the lunch menu was adjusted to include bacon rolls. The forecasted wind of 230º at 16kn, accompanied by rain, meant a precautionary reef and full wet weather gear were necessary.

The North coast of the Solent’s tides helped the boats make good progress, although poor visibility led to misidentification of the starboard hand marks. Carina added some excitement to the return trip when Bob called KHM Portsmouth for entry under sail, as he was unable to start the engine. Carina’s bosun was onboard Pochard V so offered assistance and a few helpful hints.

Back at Port Solent, there was some concern when Carina was delayed, but the crew had overcome the issue and stopped for lunch before returning. All in all, the weekend was a wonderful start to the holiday season.

Looking ahead to 2025

As we say goodbye to 2024, we look forward to an exciting year of sailing in 2025. Upcoming events include Cowes Classic Week, the Round the Island Race, Sail GP, Fastnet Start, and Cowes Week. We’re excited to be part of this incredible Club, and we look forward to seeing you on the water.

Merry Christmas, and here’s to smooth sailing in 2025!

Looking forward to more Club events in 2025? Check out our upcoming events page or get in touch via our contact page to get involved!