Dittisham/Brixham Cruiser Rally 23/24th June 2023

Published 12:30 on 9 Jul 2023

With the Dufour mini rally in France, and other cruiser members in Spain you might think that this rally would be less well attended, but that was not the case!  Our only two centre rally is a firm favourite with cruisers, with the lure of sleepy, picturesque Dittisham and the more vibrant atmosphere (and hot showers) provided by Brixham marina. 

Doug and Martine, our rally masters, set off on the Thursday, berthing at Dart Haven with an electric hookup to ensure that the white wine and canapes remained well chilled until consumed at the pontoon party.  Several boats (including one from the dark side) arrived early at Dittisham and enjoyed a sunny day at Stoke Gabriel, walking to the new location for Sharpham wine. 

For once, there was very little traffic on the WhatsApp cruiser group regarding wind speed, sea state, and tides in the run up to the rally, as the previous week had been flat calm seas and very little wind. However light winds gave the crew on Banksia a chance to use their (very pretty!) spinnaker, which went up well, but snuffing technique needs improvement.  The rest of the fleet arrived mid afternoon on Friday having had a sunny motor sail round from Salcombe.

With the 13 boats attending, rafting 2 or 3 abreast per buoy as per the Harbour Masters plan, a very convivial time was had by all, with different boats on each raft hosting pre dinner drinks or breakfast the next morning. In the evening we filled the Ferry Boat Inn and were once again well looked after by Simon and his team. Graham, RCC, officially welcomed new members Debbie and Kevin (Serenity), Brian and Matthew (Jacaranda) and Scud and Wendys new puppy Crumble, on his first rally.

Saturday dawned bright and sunny with crews having a leisurely breakfast before either setting off back to base or on to Brixham. We once again encountered fairly light winds with most boats, with the exception of JennyT, resorting to some engine power.  Once safely moored up, there was an opportunity to have a wander round Brixham where we encountered a couple of wayward pirates! 

The pontoon party held in front of Aquamarine made good inroads into the wine and canapes, before we were taken across to Brixham Yacht Club in their launch. Here we were given a very warm welcome and enjoyed a delicious meal, before walking back to the marina.

Sundays forecast was for higher wind speeds later in the day so most crews decided to set off early before 7:30am, with Nikita leading the way at 5am. Sadly there was no wind until past Prawle Point, but a good sail after that. Aquamarine stayed another night bound for the Turf Lock in the Exe the next day. 

Our next official rally will be in September on the Yealm. However, many crews that arent in France or further afield will be heading West during the last two weeks in July on our Summer Rally.