Underway - at last!

Over the last few weeks we have completed a couple of days sailing, the boat is provisioned, the spare parts stored and the majority of tasks now completed. This has included quite a few trips up the mast for John to replace a HF antenna and cabling. The mast height is 20 metres so you don't want to be up there any longer than necessary - just as well the best mate brings him down on request!  Thank goodness for electric winches. 

View from the top of the mast

The first time out sailing was quite daunting with self furling main sail, head sail and bow thruster which are all new systems to learn how to operate.  We were fortunate that Duncan (from Oyster Yachts and a RYA Skipper and Instructor) joined us to show us how to use the systems.  Raising the sails with the press of a finger is a novelty we are getting used to.  

Duncan keeping an eye on John

Motoring past local tourist Thames barge

During our first night on a mooring we had just sat down with a drink and nibbles to enjoy the peace and quiet and celebrate this milestone.  We then noticed the border patrol RIB going down the river. The RIB then turned around and came up behind us and "asked" for permission to board.  We then had a 30 min visit with the boat searched, papers and passports checked and a few questions asked.  All very pleasant but hopefully this will not occur on a regular intervals as a foreign registered vessel in the UK.

Border Patrol departing - notice the UK summer weather!

Although we have an auto pilot on the boat (another system we are not used to) it does take awhile to get used to leaving the helm and the boat steering herself.  With only the two of us there are plenty of opportunities to take the helm so Leanne is spending the time practicing her helming. 

Enjoying time on the helm

We are now departing Fox's Marina and plan to spend a week cruising the local area and then sail across to Belgium for a shake down cruise.  Belgium is approx 15 hrs away so it will be a good test for the boat systems and the two of us.  Crossing the English Channel requires plenty of planning with heavy shipping, numerous controlled Vessel Traffic Systems, strong tidal flows and shifting sand bars!  Good opportunity to brush up on the Navigation skills!  You can follow us on AIS:  http://www.marinetraffic.com 

Nav planning for Belgium