The trip to West Wick gave us the chance to see Lady Martina's namesake, Tom's new boat, one of many which have had the same name!

We decided to bring to an end our stay at West Wick marina as the winds had got up and some gales were expected. We had enjoyed the company of our new found friends and former owners of Lady Martina, but as we would be stuck for a few days we needed the amenity and facilities of nearby Burnham on Crouch. We were grateful for the hospitality of Tom and Peggy and he was now able to provide us with two, four-bladed propellers made specially for our boat and carefully stored all this time.

We were also grateful for the help of Tom's marina neighbour, Les, both last year for escorting us of the Foulness sandbank and this year for providing tidal information essential for our safe departure.

We pulled away in a strong wind waving goodbye and to Tom. The last time he had seen this happen was when he had parted with Lady Martina all those years ago and had thought it was the last he would have seen of her. We left West Wick with 12 feet of water which reduced to nine as we passed the entrance bar. Mooring proved tricky with a gusty force 6/7 cross wind but we eventually made it without mis-hap and could settle down to a quiet afternoon with Lady Martina berthed safely for the storms to come.

Cruising Statistics

Distance: 6.5nm

Total to date: 185 nm

Avg Speed: 6.5 knots

Duration: 1 hour

Diesel: 24 litres
(estimated)

Wind: SW6

Mooring: £22.10/night

Electricity: Free