Frostbite Rally 2018 – Royal Clarence, Gosport

This year’s Frostbite was put together by a stand in Rear Commodore, Offshore in the form of Derek, who has proved beyond all doubt that he can organise a pi$$ up in a brewery.

The weather was cold with occasional drizzle, but that didn’t stop 6 boats and 22 of us getting together for this Rally. A seventh boat, Carina was in the sailing club next door to the marina, but decided not to move the 50 meters or so and came by foot.

The plan was to meet up in Royal Clarence Yard in Gosport during the day, with tea and cakes (including a fruit cake baked by Derek himself) served in the marina office at 1600. Once all the cake had gone and the tea supply had been depleted, we walked around the corner to the Fallen Acorn Brewery.

We were met by Andy the Sales Manager, who gave us a tour of the building and explained the history of the company as well as taking us through the brewing process, including allowing us to smell the hops. We were then given the chance to try the four or so different beers that they produce and supply to local pubs and bars.

The walk back to the marina seemed to be considerably longer than the way there, but after that gentle meander it was time for dinner at Arty’s brasserie at the marina. We were seated and had a very good meal, although the Navy and Cowboy hats are a bit of a mystery!

The Frostbite Rally is always a popular part of the Club calendar and once again this was no exception. Many thanks to Derek for organising it.

27th-28th January 2018