The NYC Summer Rally, this time to the Haslar Marina just inside Portsmouth Harbour, had a slightly depleted fleet due to at least 4 of the regulars being away cruising as far as Brittany and the Scillies. However there was still a decent turnout with good sailing conditions and wind direction for the attending 6 boats; Chesterton, Polly, Sunshine, Southern Hey and Navy Blues, all based in the central and western Solent, along with Paper Tiger who didn’t have so far to go.
Memories from a previous visit, of being bounced around in the visitor berths as cross channel ferries passed, were soon a distant memory, Dean & Reddyhoff having invested in refurbishment of the breakwater. Staff and club members were on hand to help get tied up alongside in some tight berths to keep us all together. For some, this was very conveniently located by the Mary Mouse 2, a lightship decommissioned in 1993 and now providing a characterful location for toilet/shower facilities and Trinities restaurant.
WhatsApp provided promises of a fantastic looking Gin & Tonic Loaf and jugs of Pimms, and the traditional tea and cake on the pontoon did not disappoint. Plenty of tea and coffee was available, although several top ups of the Pimms were required.
With everyone full of cake, there was an impromptu photo shoot on Chesterton – now with a low waterline and a bit of a list.
With 6 boats, we were just about able to fit into what effectively was a private room in Trinities for dinner, making for an enjoyable dining experience in great company.
As has become customary, everyone then retired to one of the boats for some after-dinner drinks – this time hosted on Southern Hey.
The following morning all but 2 boats set off for home, one being resident and the other electing for an extra night stay and the forecast of more favourable winds on the Monday.
Thanks to Nick for another well organised and successful Rally, he even redeemed himself from the poorly organised weather for the Spring Rally. Lets hope he keeps it up!
27th-28th July 2019