43.17.0N 3.26.7E

 

7 June  - Exit canal via the round lock, lots of hanging around waiting for “Henri”, Jan arrives and busy evening with rigging

 

Depart Vias 0845

Arrive Grau d`Adge 1200, just as the yard has closed for lunch (1200 to 1400) 4 miles , 1 lock

Sunny and hot, again

 

Blast, got to the Round Lock which either goes straight tho to continue the Canal du Midi to Etang de Thau (and Sete), or turn right for l`Herault river and mast stepping yard BUT they only open the turn right lock at certain times – just missed the last one (0900) so have to wait till 1115. No problem, the sun is out and lots to do to get the mast ready. Get genny foil reconnected, sticking out the front again. Turn right with one other boat -hire boats are not allowed this way (as they could escape to the sea!). Arrive yard (Chantier Naval Allemand) below the 12 m air clearance bridge (we need 13m for the mast plus 1.5 to the deck), but all closed for lunch. Glad did recky yesterday. Moor up to get lights and windex back on top of mast, get all unlashed ready for the lift, and wait, and wait... Jane gets grumpy as all this hanging around. Jan arrives with additional tbags (and brompton tyre). Henri appears and judges pivot point (spot on)with crane, and up she goes. Forestay and two shrouds attached, and all is done. Attach and put some tension in mids and lowers, then Henri shins up mast to detach the lift sling. All done in 15mins. Charge 30 euros, including use of shower and loo (v basic but both fully functional). A bargain. Next time must make sure Henri is not on holiday! Busy late afternoon/evening fitting electrics (radar, lights, vhf), tighten rigging, fit all halyards, hoist genny. Get asked to move as big m boat arriving for craning out, so down to the town pontoon, moor bows to and christen the bowsprit for gettin on/off. All 3 of us nackered, enjoy a Jane special and straight to bed.