Learning to Helm. Photo: M. Jacobson

Not all who sail the Nancy Blackett are experienced – newcomers to sailing as well as newcomers to Nancy are always welcomed and catered for. All that is needed is to be a member of the Nancy Blackett Trust!

Of Passing Interest. Photo: M. Jacobson

Last weekend saw Peter, a trustee of the Arthur Ransome Society but, until now, a non-sailor, and John, both join as crew for an expedition aboard Nancy.

Based at Woolverstone, they then had the enjoyment of sailing down the River Orwell to its confluence with the Stour, from where they beat upstream as far as Wrabness, before being encouraged to turn around and try the coffee at the Café on the Pier, Harwich, after rafting up outside the Halfpenny Pier.

Can We Fit Under This? Photo: M. Jacobson

The second night aboard was spent back at Woolverstone, and the next day saw them sailing up to Ipswich, before turning back at the lock, then heading down river to Levington prior to concluding the trip mid-afternoon back at Woolverstone.

Peter enjoyed his first time afloat so much that he is already planning to repeat it next year.

– Mark Jacobson