One of the compelling qualities of Southerly yachts such as ‘Hejira’ is the ability to access shallow, rarely visited locations and dry out, upright when the tide recedes. It is then possible to escape the ‘hubbub’ of yachting activity and enjoy more natural surroundings. Every time that I have driven across the bridge onto Hayling... Continue Reading →

Hejira was safe and snug in Hythe Marina, so I took the train back to Sunningdale to catch up with domesticities and other stuff.  My wife, Paula and I then returned to the embrace of Hejira and old friends, John and Birgit who have a house and mooring in Hythe. We go back to when... Continue Reading →

This is another, only marginally sailing focussed account, but I hope it does, at least, demonstrate some of the other merits of yacht ownership. We are very lucky in that our extended family all get along very well and the young grandchildren, all 4 younger than 6, entertain each other in the most charming manner.... Continue Reading →

Blankenberge had been a convenient location for the 6 days of ‘down time’ and I feel we used the time to the very best advantage. Pierre in the Marina had been so helpful, and I feel very guilty that we departed without returning the 3 pass cards he gave us for the security gate and... Continue Reading →

For those that misguidedly read this blog for sailing inspiration, I should probably warn you that this contains none of it. I apologise now for it being a truly ‘down time’ account of our 6 days spent moored in Blankenberge. I have in the past expounded on the need to slow down and drink in... Continue Reading →