“What an excellent day! Thanks to all the Yacht Haven team for organising a fun-filled trip.” - Oceanique – Mark & Nadia Carlin
Despite a week of mixed forecasts, more than seventy Lymington Yacht Haven berth holders joined this year’s rally up the River Medina to the Folly Inn in East Cowes, and were rewarded with a fun day that delivered a bit of everything: sunshine, showers, and a lively breeze!
Twenty boats made the trip, with Rupert, Pete, Sarah and Becki leading the way. Conditions on the way to the Folly were calm and manageable, and although the wind picked up on the return leg, the north-westerly direction kept the sea state comfortable and added a sense of adventure to the journey home.
“Thank you for a most enjoyable day at the Folly Inn. Please pass on my thanks to your team — I hope they enjoyed it as much as we did.” Seawing – Maurice
Arriving just in time for a quick soaking, berth holders soon found their spirits revived by Becki and Sarah’s signature Sloe Royales. Pontoon drinks got the afternoon off to a cheerful start, offering everyone a chance to dry off, chat with friends, and meet a few new faces.
Rupert and Pete ran "an impressively slick ferry service" (- Pete) between the mid-river pontoon and the shore. Those who lingered over “just one more” were met by a high tide that covered the end of the pier, leading to some creative (and rather entertaining) efforts to reach dry land!
“A big thank you for organising the trip and allowing our late entry. Great to meet fellow boaters and staff, and our first taste of sloe gin and prosecco — addictive!” Osde Bagh – Angus & Susan Falconer
The Folly Inn gave the group a warm welcome and handled the mass arrival from Lymington Yacht Haven with ease. A hearty lunch, lively atmosphere and plenty of laughter made for a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon ashore.
Berth holders left the Folly well fed and full of good cheer, ready for the return leg. The sailing boats made particularly quick work of the trip home, cruising at over 8 knots and catching a beautiful sunset as they made their way back to Lymington Yacht Haven.
Happy Plaice – Richard & Caroline Mintram
“Just wanted to say a big thank you for organising the trip to the Folly. We had a great day — great company, great food, and we’ve found a new place for lunch. The Folly is lovely!”
Pura Vida – Neil & Tracey (with Clive & Phillipa)
“Always lovely to meet new fellow boaters. We thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon — and the weather wasn’t that bad after we dodged the shower at the Folly!”
Ruby Tiger – Nick Viliesid
“Thanks for a great day out! Wonderful cocktails and an exciting sail back — 33 knots of wind, a bit of rain, and an 8.5-knot average speed back to Lymington!”
Images from the day
The photos say it all — smiling faces, full glasses, and a brilliant day afloat with great company.
