45:35.5N 1:03.8W

Tuesday 7 July Jules leaves, we beat downriver on ebb to sandy Port Medoc 32NM

Jules catches train to Bordeaux for a bit of hotel comfort and sightseeing before flying home. We depart when tide turns (1200), hoist sails and tack down river. Put in 2 reefs as wind freshens, and interesting seas with wind against strong “tide”. Brown river water full of silt. Just get in to Port Medoc as tide is turning against us.

Wednesday 8 July engine start problem, so stay another day getting sorted

Another hot cloudless day. Electrical smoke on starting, so switch off and organise engineer. Miss 1100am departure slot. Find short due to cable to keel  hydraulic pump  touching starter cable. Easily sorted. Explore ashore (Verdons sur Mer)– amazed to find sandy beach and clear water with all ages swimming. How come as river a bit further out is so full of silt? Lovely meal ashore at busy beach restaurant, L`Escale de la Plage. Moules and chips!! Excellent.