5 – A lot of sail, very little wind

On the Monday, I set off early towards Salcombe planning to get to Bolt Head before the tide turned against me. There was no wind so, under motor, a chance to note the effect of the tide and the surface of the sea. Thus . . .

force 0 (with a friend), then . . .

a hint of wind – zephyrs, force 0+. Later, off Bolt Tail . . .

force 1 . . .  and sail after sail suddenly appear on the horizon . . .

A mile or so further and I am threading through the Fastnet fleet – those who have come inshore to pick up the tide now turning in their favour . . .

(Click on image to enlarge)

 

 

 

I watch crews silently concentrating, no friendly waves of acknowledgement here. As I pass Bolt Head and open up the entrance to Salcombe, still they come . . .

(Images by Bill Whateley)