A fairly straightforward passage today between two all tide ports, although we still opted for a 6am start to carry what there was of the tide. The morning started clear and we took a route close inshore to gain the shelter of the coast from the south-easterly breeze and to admire the cliffs of the Alabaster Coast. The conditions soon deteriorated and with reduced visibility and frequent showers we opted to take a more direct route south-west for Dieppe, with only slight seas to contend with. We entered the harbour in a thick sea-mist and could barely make out the conspicuous chapel of Notre-Dame de Bon Secours on the cliff above. Arriving at midday we had our pick of the visitors spaces on the innermost pontoon, nearest to the town and furthest from any tidal swell.

The afternoon cleared to be warm and sunny and we could take a look around this surprisingly pleasant port. Being a Sunday there was a throng of locals fishing on the harbour wall, or promenading along the well-kept sea front. At the west end of the beach stands the 15th century castle which houses the town's museum, whilst at the east end the Cité de la Mer recalls the town's fishing heritage and other nautical themes. The story of the disastrous Operation Jubilee by Canadian troops in 1942 does not seem to feature as one of the town's attractions, but it is commemorated by memorials dotted around the town which mark the places where individuals fell.

Dieppe was the first French landfall for the final boat in our fleet, Rainbows End, and the arrival of Jerry and Pauline, accompanied by Vic and Maureen from Kymata, was enough to justify the second 'gala' dinner of the week.

Cruising Statistics

Distance: 55 nm

Total to date: 1674 nm

Avg Speed: 9 knots

Duration: 6 hours

Diesel: 140 litres

Wind: SE 3

Mooring: €36

Electricity: Included

Water: Included

Charts

AC2451