The weather was not kind to the RBC60 fleet on their way to Plymouth, with fog, rain, and headwinds. Some of the fleet turned back to take shelter in Dartmouth, Exmouth or Salcombe with engine trouble affected two boats; Puffin Bach has had to drop out of the circumnavigation, while Louisa May hopes to continue if a reliable outboard back up engine can be fitted.

After a battering crossing Lyme bay the other boats rested and recovered in Sutton Harbour in the most picturesque part of town. Many of the assembled Gaffers were dressed overall with flags proving a fine spectacle for the locals and the visit was reported in the local papers.

There was good food, drink, conversation and musical entertainment. The gaffer dinner was at ‘The Box’ a museum in Plymouth with a great collection of figureheads. The evening started with a very interesting talk about them. The next day there were a lot of jobs to be done – repairs, laundry, shopping, filling up with water and fuel etc.

The Plymouth visit concluded with music and supper at the Piermaster’s house which was much enjoyed. Unfortunately the planned parade of sail had to be cancelled due to Submarine movements, and instead the fleet slipped away individually to continue their sail west. There are rumours that some boats will head for the Scillies if the weather allows, before reassembling at Neyland in Milford Haven.