Walton Backwaters to the River Colne on Tuesday

Whilst the world held its united breath over the question of American default, we had a late rise at 0720 – when we just couldn’t resist the warm persuasion of the sun’s tendrils.


After breakfast, we lowered the tender and meandered around the Walton Backwaters coming up to buoys and seeing the marshes.

This afternoon we made a journey to the River Colne. During this time, we had fantastically sunny weather and light airs meaning that we spent some time lounging, sunbathing and reading before giving up on a return of the wind and unfortunately had to power-sail to our destination. Both Sam and Michael had the opportunity to sail into and pilot the boat into harbour which was very interesting. We have also plotted our route for tomorrow.

Even though the US credit event has been averted, there are other trials and tribulations at sea. After supper, we hear our second big ship to yacht warning as a container ship heading for Felixstowe, movement restricted by the narrowness of the deep-water channel, almost ran down the smaller boat. No more has been heard, so we assume the yacht got out of the way.

We are snug in our anchorage and heading to bed early in preparation for a dawn departure tomorrow.