The conditions for a cross Channel journey were perfect throughout June, except for the weekend of the rally! Those of us who were fortunate enough not to be fettered by the demands of gainful employment were able to choose our own time for the crossing. Others, less fortunate, were prevented from joining us by adverse weather forecasts or business commitments and, of the seventeen craft planning to attend, only nine boats were present, seven of which were from the mainland.
Boats began to arrive in the marina as early as Tuesday 12th June and by Friday eight Seawards (togetherwith David and Marion Andrews in Idle Pursuit) were assembled. Of the eight Seawards there was one 23 (Kathryn), three 25's (CressyII, Pegasus II and Seafarer), three 29's (Peter & Ruth's newboat, Morveren, Wizard and Calypenta) as well as the star of the show, the brand spanking new 35 (Tern), owned by Roger and Sue Goldsmith. We thank them both for allowing all those who wished, to climb on board and be shown around to see what a super vessel they have bought.
On Friday evening we were welcomed the Guernsey Yacht Club by its Commodore, Barry Singleton, and afterwards welcomed to the States of Guernsey by the President of the Tourist Board, Jeff Norman, who had arranged a Vin d'honeur which was most appreciated.
On Saturday we went to Herm, where we spent several hours exploring the delightful island, taking inthe scenery and enjoying lunch at a local hostelry before returning to Guernsey.
The Squadron Dinner was held at the Cobo Bay Hotel, which we reached by a hired bus. We had an excellent meal together with good and humorous company. The Index of Achievement was awarded for the second year running to John Hickman (CressyII) for voyaging single-handed from Hythe to St. Peter Port. Peter reminded us that the reason for choosing Guernsey for this year's venue was to celebrate 21 years of Seaward Marine and to congratulate Barry Kimber on its many achievements. Barry, on replying, praised his colleagues at Seaward Marine and thanked them for their professionalism and dedication and especially for their hard work in the week preceding the launching of the new Seaward 35.
The evening concluded with Roger Goldsmith being congratulated for his intrepid maiden voyage in the new 35, Tern, in a force 2 wind and associated seas, over a distance of at least 1 mile. For this feat he was awarded a mounted photograph of a Blue Footed Booby bird, after which Pat Mamalis thanked Peter,Ruth and Roger for all their hard work in organising a happy and successful rally.
Several Seaward owners had made the journey to Guernsey by air, including Edward & Ivy Magee from N. Ireland.Edward & Ivy frequently make the journey to be with us for the rally and it was good to see them again this year. John Mackenzie(Sirius) had travelled from Edinburgh and opened the evening's proceedings by saying grace- thank you John. Michael & Janet Awty, who were awaiting the launch of their new 25 were also present,and made very welcome too.
Sunday saw the first of the boats to leave and over the next few days the rest dispersed either backto home ports or, for the more adventurous, on to foreign parts.
Looking back on the weekend, we were blessed with good weather which of course makes all the difference. It was good to see old friends and to make new ones. We look forward to seeing you all again next year in the Solent area.
Ruth and Peter would like to thank the 37 who responded to the invitation to attend the rally- we do enjoy hearing from you all. Our thanks to Roger & Sue Goldsmith and Dave Harland for the work they did in the local organisation-also to Mary and Mike for composing so much of this report! Finally,for those who attended, thank you for making the event yet another most enjoyable rally. Looking forward to seeing you again soon.
Yours aye
Peter Bassett
