Early in the morning and the heat had built up steadily to be hot even on the water. All manner of jobs were done as everything was packed away. Meanwhile, the Bay and beach was filling up with pleasure boats and swimmers. We were surrounded by about 50 small vessels in this play area of Plymouth. And then it was time to join in :-
In contrast, a replenishment tanker of the British Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) blasts out warnings as she manoeuvres through the harbour entrance and out to sea. She joins frigates from the Netherlands and helicopters flying overhead. Radio calls from warships asking for clearance en route are regular interruptions.
13:20 Time to depart all this activity and set off on the last leg of the cruise. Windless calm weather and the steady hum of the engine as we glide gently through the water.
Mola mola
A fin, moving from side to side appeared on the surface. This was different. Not a dolphin, perhaps a basking shark? “Let’s take a closer look”. It was an Ocean Sunfish, Mola mola.
Very carefully, we motor around this rare and most unusual fish as it swam along looking for its favourite meal, jellyfish. It’s a ‘ jellivore’.
A fascinating and most peculiar looking creature of Nature.
Slowly we journeyed on towards Dartmouth. A mist began to develop caused by the heat in the air over the cool surface. Never developed into sea fog, yet hulls disappeared into the haze and only sails could be seen floating along. A weird sight indeed.
The larder was now almost empty. The last of the meat and vegetables were included into lunch and dinner in the best way possible.
Zzzz
Experience Sailing 