It Takes a Team Effort

While getting Leander ready to sail had its challenges, there were still more challenges to face once we were under sail. Trying to help the cabin cruisers dodge round us while we were tacking was one (clear paw signals were definitely required); trying to stop Leander sliding into the reeds when the wind dropped and she lost way was another; but, at a more general level, there was also the absence of some modern sailing accessories, which I tend to take for granted, to contend with.

I'm principally thinking here of the lack of cleats and winches for pulling in, and holding, the sheets for the sails. Fighting the wind, which was trying to rip the sheets out of our paws, was hard work at times and led to some cramped and sore paws, even with sailing gloves on.


This is where I was very lucky to have such a good crew. They don't all appear together on one photo, as someone was always busy with a task, so you'll need to look at both pictures, either side of this text, to see the dedicated crew who supported me very faithfully, and of whom I am very proud.


As you can see, the usual suspects of George & Yorkie were there as they wouldn't miss a holiday and needed to write the Norfolk Broads chapter for the Friendly Planet Guide. They were joined by Ellie and Billy the elephants, Gerry who was experiencing his first B.U. adventure, and lastly Randolph, who had a dual role of crew member and of keeping his minder warm at night. As you can imagine he worked especially hard.

I may have been the skipper, but I would never have untied from the river bank without my trusty crew.

More sights and tales coming soon.

Lots of love Eddie & crew xxx