21/05/2018

Saro's Gyda
Derrick Thorrington
Sat 9 Jun 2018 19:00
Dartmouth
After our little break in Worbarrow we set off on the tide to round Portland Bill. We hoped to reach Salcombe before the tide turned around the next obstacle, Start Point. This passage was notable for the lack of wind and cold foggy weather which had us layering up as if it was winter. (We later learned that members of the family were enjoying a barbeque in the sunshine in Bournemouth!) It soon became apparent that reaching Salcombe was too ambitious so we aimed for Dartmouth instead. Such was the visibility that we only began to see the murky outline of land 1/2 mile before reaching the entrance to the Dart.We were pleased to drop the anchor off the lovely town at dusk. Dartmouth is a favourite so it was no sacrifice to spend a night here.
The next day was glorious, just right for a beautiful walk out into the countryside of the South Hams. Superb scenery, little hamlets with characterful old houses, wild flowers galore and warm sunshine. Pasties were a must of course on returning to the town, after which we raised the anchor and headed out into Start Bay. Unfortunately again, no wind. we motored to the picturesque lighthouse perched on the end of Start Point and then were pleased to pick up some wind which allowed a short sail into Salcombe. We anchored on the opposite side of the river alongside beautiful little sandy beaches opposite the town.