8. Row your boat

Hardley Mill

The boys prepping the boat

Fog to start the day meant that sailing was not an option today. Had a look at yr.no (use it for flight planning) and we were looking at a max of two metres a second wind for the day.  Stripped the spars and sails off the dinghy and went for a test row with the boys - success.

The tide was on the turn at 1330 so a few bites were thrown together and we were off up the river on the warmest day to date heading for Hardley Mill which I visited yesterday by sail.

Iris rowing

We all took turns catching crabs (rowing) with the ebbing tide carrying us along. We used the centre board and rudder, the children taking turns to steer.  This took the pressure off having to row accurately.  The rowing was a challenge as we use traditional open rowlocks so there was some wailing and gnashing of teeth by each in turn as they got to grips with it. Food was rapidly consumed as it always is on the water.

We reached the mill, paid the £6 and had a lovely tour through though the fan was not rotating due to the lack of wind.

180º panorama.  The girls in the transom with Audrey steering, Fyfe rowing, Roman in the bow.

Afterwards, ice creams and further chat with the volunteer, husband and wife team, locals, very engaging.

On the return, the tide was with us so we drifted along, probably at a couple of knots.  Most pleasant.

Packed up, ready for departure in the morning for the south coast.

There is always a bigger boat