Round the Island Rally Wednesday 17 - Friday 19 June 2026

Gale force Winds Heavy seas – Russian Convoys Shots Fired

It sounds like a scene from the Atlantic convoys during WW2 but no, just a reflection on this years Dell Quay Round the Island sail.

The Rally started from Beaulieu where Sue had treated us to a lovely BBQ evening. After saying goodbye
to the other boats heading home, we started our journey to Yarmouth fully reefed down. Like the day
before we faced winds of up to 25k. As usual on our last tack across we dropped the sails and the tide
took the boats Fairwind, Niobe, Jacob Faithful and Roussillon quickly to the entrance. In the evening
we had a lovely meal at the Royal Solent which as ever provided us with a relaxing evening. As usual
we discussed which route to take back. It was decided to not go around the Island but keep to inner
side for a variety of reasons, expected fog, difficulty leaving our pontoon, a fried battery on our
boat and a possible attack by the Russian fleet who were off the South of the Island; Andy provided
an example of what might happen to us.

Sooooooo we set off heading towards Bembridge with a variety of wind speeds and a good tide, and then
NOTHING everyone disappeared and no sign of the Forts which we were looking for. Thank goodness, for
electronics and sound signals. We heard the ferry give Mike 5 quick blasts which I think means Hello
(Lol). We began closing on Bembridge at nil visibility when gradually out of the fog appeared a
chilling sight. Fortunately, it was just Mike!

We all made it into Bembridge where were greeted with the splendid sight of many Westerly boats,
dressed overall and gathered to celebrate their 60th WOA anniversary.

On the last evening, we had a ferry up to BHYC where we had a lovely meal. The end of an enjoyable
three-day sailing rally.

Lessons Learnt

• Make sure foghorn is working and to hand


• Make sure ALL reefing sheets are correctly set


• Remember sound signals SPAPS (I am going to Starboard, Port, Astern, Pilot, Keep clear


• Check battery occasionally to make sure its not red hot

(ours was red hot, sides had expanded, and acid and gases were leaking we left it on shore after speaking to RNLI where it took about 5 hours to cool down)

Thanks to Mike, Andy + Sue for the pictures.
Chris