This account is from Ricks Meppelder, one of several who sailed from the Netherlands to join us at our Yarmouth Regatta (in Ricks’ case solo):
After the particularly successful ‘Yarmouth Gaffers Regatta 2026’, I am setting off together with Molly of Mylor (Cornish Crabber 26), High Barbaree (Cornish Crabbers Pilot Cutter), Meagan (Ed Burnett design), Margherita (Willow Bay Boats Shilling Class), Sea Filly (Norfolk Smuggler 25) and my own Recipe (also a Norfolk Smuggler) for a trip along the less accessible, interesting spots along the Solent.
First, we visit ‘Poole’ where we anchored in South Deep right under an island. The weather was lovely and the water warm enough to swim! Jeremy (skipper of Margherita) has a lot to tell about this interesting area. It is fascinating.
The next day, we set off at our leisure for ‘Newtown Creek’. It takes some effort to find a good anchorage in the shallow creek. The view is beautiful! With Charles’ dinghy as a ferry, we enjoy a nice drink on board the hospitable ‘High Barbaree’. The next day we sail to Whippingham, where Charles once again takes us in the dinghy to the pub across the water for an elaborate dinner, full of stories and laughter.
From there, the day after, we head to Buckler’s Hard in the New Forest on the Beaulieu River. Again, a beautiful area with a rich history, which I wouldn’t readily visit alone. The surroundings are breathtaking, and the houses of the shipbuilders from that era are impressive.
We say goodbye here after a few wonderful and interesting days.
Thank you for this amazing experience!
Ricks Meppelder a/b RECIPE
Leave a Reply