Cruise home from St Ives after swim and boatyard visit and learning more about The Lady
The night was much disturbed by rowdy and rude behaviour by youths on the next two boats who returned late from dancing and drinking and spent the night shouting, swearing and fighting. At last to sleep and we awake to another warm day turning later into sun and showers as thunderstorms pass overhead.
We walk to the St Ivo pool for a swim after washing down The Lady with water from the Waits Quay tap. We then set off with me atop my new Helmsman’s seat for Hemingford Lock. We wait in warm sunshine but as we exit the lock the heavens open in a downpour and so lunch moored at Hemingford Abbots was a pleasant passing.
News today is of the Labour Leadership fight with the media intent on drawing out dispute and division if at all possible. Continued concern on the hazard of asbestos dust in demolishing aircraft carriers and old power stations.
Onward through Houghton and Brompton locks and to the boatyard at Offord where we moor at Buckden Marina and stop for chandlery. I chance on replacement hinges for our toilet seat and cover which I buy with more cream non-slip deck paint. As we are moored preparing tea I meet Allan Ball of Trivector, who I chat to and Mr Darlow owner of the yard, who used to own The Lady. After four years, I explain how we have renamed her from ‘Merdeka’ and recently overhauled the paintwork.
He tarries and reminds us that she was built in 1968/1969 as the prototype by Banhams of the Discovery Class cruisers. He used this boat more than any of his ownership and we agreed it is a first class family boat. Onward through Offord Lock and a cruise back to the moorings in a heavy shower. We offload, turn the batteries and gas off and return to the house. The ducks continue to grow and are nearly as large as the older ones.
I have enjoyed a restful weekend but am glad to return to my own bed as usual.