The forecast wasn’t good and after much thought we decided to stay put. Gales were forecast later and the entry into Dartmouth would not be pleasant. We had more long, hot showers followed by coffee in the bar while the clothes washed in the laundry. After spicy lentil soup and naan bread I finally persuaded Si to get the folding bikes out. It rained. Luckily by the time we were finally ready the skies were clear blue and we set off for Weymouth and a bracing cycle behind Chessil Beach. The suggested cycle route along the coast was stunning and although Si seemed reluctant at first he was beaming every time he turned round. The harbour was as quaint as ever, but full of holiday makers. I bought a birthday present for Christopher in the town then we cycled through to the beach as the seaside stalls were packing up for the day. I love this beach – so British and old fashioned with deck chairs, Punch and Judy and shelters with ornate fascias harbouring grannies eating ice cream. We stopped for some local ale at Brewer’s Quay then head back to the marina with the wild winds picking up. Kite and windsurfers shot around Portland Harbour at amazing speeds and many of the flags lining the road had ripped out of their fixings and flapped about of faces as we cycled past and into the marina.

   Back on Brindabella it was literally blowing a gale. Whatever must it have been blowing out of the shelter of the harbour? We moved fenders, doubled up the mooring lines and tied up the wind generator which had shaken off the ties and was whizzing round madly.

   It looked like a bomb had landed below with bikes, bags, coats and covers everywhere and laundry hanging from the grab rails. We cleared room around the table to eat cheese omelettes and salad while reflecting on our fab bike ride. I was so pleased there was room for them on board and I looked forward to exploring many places on our travels.                          ---Lini---