The Solent last Saturday

I couldn't make last Sundays paddle but managed to get out on Saturday instead. A combination of high winds and lots of rain had been the prelude to the weekend and I have to confess that I hadn't expected the scene that greeted me as I arrived at Hillhead, there was not a white cap to be seen.

Setting off in the direction of Portsmouth Harbour I was assisted by a nice tidal flow and a gentle SW. I paused for lunch at Stokes Bay where I watched a Common Seal bob up and down several times as if intrigued by the 'Common People' that trudged along the shingle, oblivious to its presence.

After lunch I followed the Seals route to the mouth of Portsmouth Harbour before heading back to Stokes Bay and then out into the Solent where, to my surprise, there was hardly a breath of wind.

The scene was a picture of tranquillity, the Solent was like a sheet of green silk. I weaved my way through a field of becalmed yachts, mindful that my wake was greater than theirs.

On my return to Hillhead it was far too nice to come in and as I waited for the Sun to set I occupied myself with some rolling practice and was reminded that it was mid November after all..... Brrrr!

(My camera struggled in the fading light, the outcome was some interesting painterly effects).

Sallyport to Fishbourne Sunday 7th November 2010

With a noticeable chill in the air just seven members (and their 'Pogies') gathered at Sallyport for the two trips that were scheduled last Sunday. Three of us joined Steve E for a pleasant jaunt across the Solent to Fishbourne whilst two members were guided along the coast to Lee on Solent by Richard S. On our return, any thoughts of a gentle 'wind down' were summarily dismissed by several million litres of water rushing through Portsmouth Harbour entrance creating a veritable torrent; it was interesting to say the least, but fun (in a masochistic sort of way and at least we weren't cold anymore!).

Sallyport to Bembridge 2010 October

Sallyport to Bembridge (Well, not quite) 31 October 2010

Eight members enjoyed a lively paddle across the Solent on Sunday. Whilst the original plan was to head to Bembridge visibility was poor and we were concerned about making the return trip in fading light, it was decided that we would haul out on a lovely sand beach about half a mile to the East of Sea View (I think the real reason was due to some not wanting to miss out on a bit of 'Trick or Treating').