On the starting blocks

Shell Beach, Herm

  
Despite the best efforts of Jenny and Sue from the bank, seven days after the new bank card had been despatched from the UK we had to accept that it was probably lost in the post and unlikely to turn up. We therefore cancelled the replacement card and ordered a new one. Fortunately, after some strong words from Sue, this one is being couriered across and is “guaranteed to be here by Tuesday 23^rd”. The sad bit about the delays is that we have missed a fantastic wind for heading west. But, on the other hand, without access to my bank account keeping our accounts in order would get very difficult.
  

Very much on the plus side of the bank card issue, we have been able to sail around the islands and enjoy some great sunny weather.  Last night we were anchored off Belvoir Bay on the east side of Herm and spent the late afternoon walking on the island. Sundowners on the beach was particularly pleasant. Belvoir Bay is significant for us because it is where we spent the first day of our honeymoon anchored off in Nicky’s father’s yacht. In an amazing gesture of trust he lent us his yacht for two weeks so we could cruise along the north Brittany coast as far as Brest and back.

Only tractors are allowed on Herm

The Barclay brothers' castle, Brecqhou

We also visited Sark again and spent a night anchored in Grand Grève bay. On the way over the view is dominated by the Barclay brothers’ castle on Brecqhou. Not a bad pad for a couple of newspaper boys (oh, and they are also the owners of the Ritz Hotel, amongst other holdings, as well as the Telegraph newspaper)!

Bang on the transit! (Vermerette post & white mark on the quay)

A few nights at various anchorages have worked well in between the trips back and forth the bank. Most of the navigation around the immediate islands is based upon transits; two markers you line up to keep you clear of the rocks. Some of the rocks are also marked with posts, often with letters on them showing their names. All very helpful but I’m sure based upon too many people over the years parking their boats on top of the rocks. In comparison, the Solent is more forgiving as, if you get your tidal calculations or navigation wrong, you generally will hit soft mud. The granite here is far less forgiving. That, plus the large tidal range, makes it a very interesting place to sail. When you have got yourself safely into a beautiful anchorage you really feel as though you have achieved something.
  

Even the cruise ships think the islands are worth a visit!