Burnham on Crouch to Ipswich - Day 98

Burnham on Crouch to Ipswich - Wednesday 17th August 2011 - Day 98

We left Burnham at mid-day and our progress was slowed by the incoming tide.  On leaving the river we hoisted shortend sail as we were beating into a stiff breeze.  Passing the full length of the wind farm, it is the same as all of the others I have passed, not all of them are going round in very favourable conditions.

Stena Hollandia

We had a very good run  up the coast to the very busy ports of Harwich and Felixstowe.  This rather large ferry passed us in the entrance on her regular run between the Hook of Holland and Harwich.
Once more, you stay in the dedicated small craft channel while listening closely to the port traffic control inter-ship conversations, to give a picture of what movements are happening in the port.

Ultra large vessel 'A P Moller'

One such announcement on the VHF, informed the ultra large vessel A P Moller was leaving Berth No.7 at Felixstowe. With a long blast on her deep throated whistle she slowly moved from the quay and passed on her way to sea.   How she managed without any tug boats was amazing to see.
After passing the quays at Felixstowe you enter the River Orwell for the run up to Ipswich.
This is a very pretty river, with the just outside the main channel there are lots of yachts lying at their moorings.

Sunset on the Orwell

We were unable to raise the staff at the marina, so we found an empty berth on one the hammer heads and tied up there at 20.45.  Half an hour later we were in the marina bar/restuarant Buttermans but they had stopped servicing meals. For our safe arrival party we had Speckled Hen and crisps.  Still starving, back on board into the provisions with a feast of fruity malt, ham, cheese and tomatoes washed down with rum and coffee.  That's living.