So many boats, so many people, such fantastic weather, so many smiling faces. Must have been a success. To describe the event and scene would be impossible, but a few pictures might help.
The flotilla arrives:
Just a few of these marvels of traditional craftmanship:
A number, of highly variable size, took part in a regatta, which was a bit of a flop because the wind would not cooperate:
Maybe what it should have been like. How to use a square-rigged sail to sail close-hauled. Amazing!
And then there were the craftsmen, wood in the limelight. How to make a plank out of a treetrunk, split in half first, just with an axe and persistent patience:
Then built into a shed, no nails or screws, just ingenuity, craftily placed notches, and muscle: (And a few wooden pegs, mostly hidden).
And a product of someone’s, (probably a father’s), imagination and devotion. Ever seen a rockingboat before? Not sure about the rocking”horse” though, difficult to ride astride.
There was music, of varying quality and sort, played with energy and enthusiasm, mostly on the loud side, (thank goodness for hearing aids which can be dampening), some of it very foot-tapping.
And talks. One boat-enthusiat professor had tested four trad boats in the very advanced and sophisticated test tank here at the university, with scientifically analysed results. Significant differences were found: A best one for sailing, and a best one for rowing. I’m sure the builders would have nodded agreement, had they known.
Weather now hot, with sailing winds, what could be better!
Alls well.
Josin's 2025 cruise 