Three weeks after D-Day, Cherbourg was liberated by the Americans on June 26th 1944, after almost exactly four years of German occupation, and our annual rally to Cherbourg falls between the 70th anniversary of that important moment, and the date of the surrender on 19th June 1940. As you enter the Passe de l'Ouest, you might ponder the curious three-day artillery duel which was fought between American forces in the Fort de Chavagnac on the south side, and a handful of Germans stubbornly refusing to surrender in the Fort de l'Ouest!
We want you to join us for a great sail across and excellent company and activities when we get there. If you've been wanting to cross the Channel for the first time, this is the time to do it!
Departure is from Weymouth on Friday morning or whenever you want to leave – those wishing to enter their times for the IRC/NHC trophies should time themselves from the club line to the port hand marker inside the Passe de l'Ouest bearing 080 degrees. Full instructions will be posted on the club board. The programme outline is as follows – details of timings to come.
On Friday evening we will gather at the Yacht Club for drinks and to meet up with YCC members, hand in times, discuss the crossing etc. As 'Raging Bee' is not doing RTI this year after all, everyone will be there to welcome us and to talk sailing.
On Saturday 21st there is the annual 'Fête de la Musique' most of the day and all evening – those of you who have sampled the atmosphere will know it's an unmissable event (though Dave's not allowed to play any CDs he buys)!
There is also a great market to wander round, and we will also be visiting Normandie Wine Warehouse again to taste their range of wines, so you should come back well stocked-up with excellent food and drink. In the afternoon I propose a leisurely bus ride and stroll (0.2 mi) to the 16th century Chateau des Ravalets at Tourlaville, which has lovely gardens - and a tearoom!
On Sunday we are invited to join YCC for their sail along the coast to the Anse St. Martin, and the tiny Port Racine, just before Cap de La Hague, where they will be having a BBQ on the beach, and then sail back in the evening – a chance to explore the Cotentin coast in the company of the experts!
Let's try and get even more boats this year than last year!
Steve Fraser
Cruiser Class Captain
