RETURN TO THE DEBEN - Part 2

I took a day off cruising. Went to take the photos of that strange superyacht and then down to Greenwich which is now mainly the University along with a Greenwich visitors' centre.

And, of course, the Cutty Sark.

 I used the catamaran riverbuses. Very impressive service. Lovely smooth ride. Pity about the wake they inevitably leave behind, not so much big but powerful and very persistant. They leave all that part of the Thames in a permanent state of agitation.

Next day, sun shining and bright blue skies, off to Gillingham Marina

passing Greenwich

the O2

the Thames Barrier

Tate & Lyle

the Woolwich Ferry

the QE2 bridge, accompanied by serious industrial traffic.

 As I was about to turn around the wreck of the SS Richard Montgomery into the Medway I saw a sail on the horizon. Ever a sucker for a classic sailing boat I held an intercepting course... 

...which proved to be...

...well worth the effort. 

As I entered a pretty little gaffer was leaving.

And so in to a very welcoming Gillingham Marina complete with gym and pool at preferential rates (in the building behind).

Next day the tide was ideal for an early start...

 ...in to a spectacularly beautiful morning. The sea was flat calm. The pics say it all.

A flock of gulls found some freely available prey.

And so out in to the open sea ...

... and buoy hopping for 50nm up to ...

...the lovely River Deben. Here showing Ramsholt.

It was getting dark so I moored up to a free buoy for the night before arriving on the tide Tuesday morning at The Granary Yacht Harbour.

HOME SWEET HOME!