Time to Swallow my OYT Anchor

Friday 31^st October 2025

1200 hrs

Back in April I had sailed on Prolific for two trips, P25-03 and P25-04, with crew. During those trips it became apparent that my hearing was causing me problems. I was struggling to hear what was happening on deck and more distressingly when the entire group got together in the evenings. A group of teenagers are always loud, but the noise was getting to painful levels. Usually, I worked round the problem, by making sure I was facing people when they spoke on deck or heading off after supper to the aft galley with a brillo pad in hand to scrub pots and pans as it was quieter.

One particular night I lay in my bunk quietly grappling with the problem and coming to the conclusion it was time to 'swallow this particular anchor'; this would be my last season as Sea Staff. Originally, I planned to finish in 2026 when I was 64. At the end of every OYT voyage members of Sea Staff have a chat with the Skipper reviewing the trip and working out any additional training needs. During this chat I talked over both the decision and reasoning over. After arriving home I mulled over both the decision and the conversation for a few days before dropping an email to Mark, the CEO, and Caz, the COO, advising them of my decision, but committing to the three back to back voyages already booked at the end of the season.

Thus driving up to Southampton was a bitter, sweet experience as I knew it was going to be my last time that I would be joining Prolific.

Back to back trips are exhausting, both physically and mentally, and I had only done two trips 'back to back' in the past. I knew that was going to be more of a challenge, but had both the experience and resilience to cope, and the backing of some super skippers and Sea Staff.

On all three trips I was used as a mentor watch leader, there to guide and assist a trainee or newly qualified 3^rd mate. The systems onboard Prolific are a big step up from many people's experience on a yacht. More lines, bigger lines, sails that look as big as a tennis court, and a bowsprit really do change the game. It takes time to be comfortable at this scale while also considering the skills and experience of the crew. Many have never sailed before and some, especially from the large cities, have never seen the sea. Being onboard for some is a challenge in itself.

Prolific. Time to swallow this particular anchor.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
46:	84.30	11h 25m	5.53	10.30	0h 00m
47:	89.90	18h 35m	6.00	7.00	2h 20m
48:	63.00	15h 15m	4.13	8.00	0h 00m
Total:	237.20	45h 15m	5.24	10.30	2h 20m

---

Updated: 29/11/2025

---

OYT Trip 48 of 2025 - Day 5

Friday 10^th October 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 53.70' N Long: 001° 23.53' W
Ocean Village, Southampton

0900 hrs
Breakfast followed by the big pack up and happy hour 'super style' on Prolific.

1100 hrs
End of voyage round up and presentation of certificates.

I am always one for doing things quietly and had made no mention to the crew that this was my last voyage, so was rather bowled over when a voyage certificate and card (signed by all onboard) was presented for the trip. Followed very rapidly by a cake to celebrate my eight years of volunteering! Ahh, that was reason why I had that wee trip in the electric boat. Rather red faced I was not allowed to slip quietly back into the shadows.

1500 hrs
Following lunch and getting Prolific ready for the next trip. Ironically, the same trip Adult Voyage for budding volinteers as I took many years before. I packed my kit, gave all the sea staff a big OYT hug and headed for the car and the drive back to Devon. ready for the next trip. Ironically, the same trip Adult Voyage for budding volunteers as I took many years before. I packed my kit, gave all the sea staff a big OYT hug and headed for the car and the drive back to Devon.

All times are UT.

---

Updated: 29/11/2025

OYT Trip 48 of 2025 - Day 4

Thursday 9^th October 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 45.68' N 001° 17.66' W
Sheppards Quay, Cowes

0900 hrs
Breakfast, happy hour for Prolific and shore leave in Cowes. As the crew had two teaching staff I was able to have a wander on my own, but very, very disappointed that the usual ice cream shop had closed for the season! A quick look into the Musto and HH shop to have a look at their current wet weather gear and back to the marina for a shower.

1315 hrs
Slipped the pontoon and head towards Southampton on a sunny warm afternoon. As few had been up on the bowsprit Hope and I headed to the bow to let everybody who wanted to go onto it the chance.

Knowing this was my last day onboard as sea staff Unity was keen that I went out on the bowsprit, but I was more than happy to let Hope go out while I took up position inboard. Southampton Water with Fawley refinery is not the most picturesque stretch of water and nothing could replace the memory from a few years ago of being on the bowsprit as we headed up the channel into Poole at the sun was setting.

1615 hrs
Lat: 50° 53.70' N Long: 001° 23.53' W
Ocean Village, Southampton

Tied up alongside and with a few hours before supper the crew were allowed some free time. I spent a couple of hours watching a group of youngsters being youngsters playing on the pontoon, finding crabs and shells, skipping stones over the water and getting very, very wet, but loving every moment of it.

1930 hrs
I have always loved the small electric boat that Ocean Village Marina has and had mentioned that I would love at ride in it. Following supper Will said he had been to see the marina staff and they were happy to take me round the marina in it, I naturally jumped at the opportunity. Little realising this was all part of a cunning plan to get me off the boat for an hour or so.

All times are UT.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	10.40	3h 15m	3.20	7.00	0h 00m
Trip:	63.00	15h 15m	4.13	8.00	0h 00m

---

Crew: Constantinos (Skipper), Patrick, Steve, Unity, Hope, Will, Sandy and the group from Charter School, Dulwich.

---

Sunrise: 0559 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1149 hrs   Sunset: 1757 hrs

---

The Shipping Forecast

The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Thu 9 Oct 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Thu 9 Oct 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Fri 10 Oct 2025.

There are gale warnings in:
Bailey, Fair Isle, Faeroes and Southeast Iceland. Iceland.

The general synopsis at 1800:
High 250 miles west of Sole 1031 expected south Shannon 1034 by 1800 Thursday. New low expected just northwest of Iceland 992 by same time.

Sea Areas:
Wight, Portland, Plymouth

Weather:
North or northwest 2 to 4. Slight or moderate. Fair. Good, occasionally moderate at first.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 09/10/2025

---

Updated: 29/11/2025

OYT Trip 48 of 2025 - Day 3

Wednesday 8^th October 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 38.77' N Long: 001° 09.13' W
Sandown Bay, Isle of Wright

0800 hrs
Breakfast and get the crew ready for the day.

0900 hrs
Once the anchor was raised and the sails hoisted, on a drizzly and over cast morning, we had a gentle sail to Cowes.

1200 hrs
Lat: 50° 44.43' N Long: 001° 03.61' W
Noon Position.

1400 hrs
Lat: 50° 45.68' N Long: 001° 17.66' W
Sheppards Quay, Cowes

Once alongside it was time for shore leave followed by showers.

All times are UT.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	20.00	5h 00m	4.00	7.00	0h 00m
Trip:	52.60	12h 00m	4.38	8.00	2h 20m

---

Crew: Constantinos (Skipper), Patrick, Steve, Unity, Hope, Will, Sandy and the group from Charter School, Dulwich.

---

Sunrise: 0559 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1149 hrs   Sunset: 1757 hrs

---

The Shipping Forecast

The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Wed 8 Oct 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Wed 8 Oct 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Thu 9 Oct 2025. Atlantic high 1028 expected 200 miles west of Sole 1032 by 1800 Wednesday.

There are gale warnings in:
Bailey, Faeroes and Southeast Iceland.

The general synopsis at 1800:
Atlantic high 1028 expected 200 miles west of Sole 1032 by 1800 Wednesday.

Sea Areas:
Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth

Weather:
Variable becoming north or northwest later, 2 to 4. Slight or moderate in Portland and Plymouth, otherwise smooth or slight. Occasional drizzle later in Plymouth. Good, occasionally poor later in Plymouth.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 08/10/2025

---

Updated: 27/11/2025

OYT Trip 48 of 2025 - Day 2

Tuesday 7^th October 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 44.56' N Long: 001° 10.46' W
Ryde Bay, Isle of Wright

0900 hrs
A later start than usual after a night at anchor with a group that rarely visited the sea. Following breakfast we split into watches and taught winch drills and covered knots and ropework.

1200 hrs
Lat: 50° 44.56' N Long: 001° 10.46' W
Noon Position

1240 hrs
Following lunch we raised the anchor, hoisted the sails and had a leisurely sail round to Sandown Bay including a MOB drill.

1830 hrs
Lat: 50° 38.77' N Long: 001° 09.13' W
Sandown Bay, Isle of Wright

A stunning sunset in a place I had not anchored in before.

All times are UT

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	19.40	4h 30m	4.40	8.00	0h 00m
Trip:	32.60	7h 00m	4.65	8.00	2h 20m

---

Crew: Constantinos (Skipper), Patrick, Steve, Unity, Hope, Will, Sandy and the group from Charter School, Dulwich.

---

Sunrise: 0559 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1149 hrs   Sunset: 1757 hrs

---

The Shipping Forecast

The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Tue 7 Oct 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Tue 7 Oct 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Wed 8 Oct 2025 .

There are gale warnings in:
Malin, Hebrides, Bailey, Fair Isle, Faeroes and Southeast Iceland.

The general synopsis at 1800:
High France 1028 dissipating.

Sea Areas:
Wight, Portland, Plymouth

Weather:
Variable 2 to 4. Smooth or slight in Wight, otherwise slight or moderate. Fair. Good .

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 07/10/2025

---

OYT Trip 48 of 2025 - Day 1

Monday 6^th October 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 53.71' N Long: 001° 23.43' W
Ocean Village, Southampton

0900 hrs
After breakfast the sea staff assembled for the round of jobs to do before the crew arrived. Getting the shopping from the Sainsbury's Van into the food lockers, freezer and several fridges always takes time when you are catering for about 20.

1200 hrs
Lunch and sea staff briefings. During the briefing I let everybody know that this was my last voyage with the trust, due to my failing hearing I was struggling to hear people both on deck and below.

1400 hrs
The crew arrive and we crack on with pre-voyage briefings, issue of kit and get supper started.

2000 hrs
Unusually, we slip from the marina and motor down Southampton Water to Ryde Bay. A different start to a trip, but it allowed everybody to get used to the feeling of being on the boat without the presure of winch drills.

Chatting to Hope on the fore deck it turned out that we had sailed before on a MACS trip a couple of years earlier. Lovely to see that another crew member had become a member of sea staff.

2215 hrs
Lat: 50° 44.56' N Long: 001° 10.46' W
Ryde Bay, Isle of Wright

With the anchor down it was time for a coco and head for my bunk.

All times are UT

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	13.20	2h 20m	6.00	7.00	2h 20m
Trip:	13.20	2h 20m	6.00	7.00	2h 20m

---

Crew: Constantinos (Skipper), Patrick, Steve, Unity, Hope, Will, Sandy and the group from Charter School, Dulwich.

---

Sunrise: 0559 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1149 hrs   Sunset: 1757 hrs

---

The Shipping Forecast

The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Mon 6 Oct 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Mon 6 Oct 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Tue 7 Oct 2025.

There are gale warnings in:
There are warnings of gales in Fisher, German Bight, Rockall, Malin, Hebrides, Bailey, Fair Isle and Faeroes.

The general synopsis at 1800:
High Biscay 1030 expected south Portland 1027 by 1800 Monday.

Sea Area:
Humber, Thames, Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth

Weather:
Northwest 4 to 6, backing west or southwest, 3 to 5. Slight or moderate, occasionally rough at first in Humber and Plymouth. Showers. Good .

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 06/10/2025

---

Update: 25/11/2025

OYT Trip 47 of 2025 - Day 5

Sunday 5^th October 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 45.66' N Long: 001° 17.64' W
Sheppards Yard, Cowes

0500 hrs
Following a second night of disturbed sleep due to creaking warps. The alarm had been set early as several boats wanted to do a 'pursuit' in the west Solent. Much to my surprise the crew were up without a complaint and the boat was made ready for sea in the dark.

0530 hrs
Slipped the mooring lines, the second boat of the fleet out of the marina.

0700 hrs
The unofficial start time for the unofficial pursuit. Chilly and windy, but a cracking sunrise in the eastern Solent.

I have zero interest in racing pursuits and really could not work out what was going on, but concentrated on getting the crew to tack when needed and nodded at the appropriate time when those who were getting excited needed some agreement.

An interesting discussion with the skipper developed on deck during a leg about my lack of excitement, Andy is a rather keen racer. It went along the lines of, 'There is a buoy, oh another buoy, now we are back at the buoy we started at and now we are passing Cowes again. We could have been at Poole by now had we been on passage'. We understood each other's position and it is all part of sailing. I shall and will always remain a passage maker.

0930 hrs
The pursuit having petered out, we headed back up Southampton Water while dropping sails and back to the berth at Ocean Village.

1200 hrs
Lat: 50° 53.71' N Long: 001° 23.43' W
Ocean Village, Southampton

Once alongside it was time for a second breakfast, packing and voyage wrap up. Following lunch the crew departed and new sea staff arrived. An afternoon doing boat and kit checks.

1930 hrs
Time to head off to the laundrette to wash some kit and head to the shower to get washed myself. After struggling with the washing machine I finally got it working and much to my surprise now have a tee shirt in delicate pink after being washed with my red socks!

Time for a quick pint with all the sea staff before heading back to Prolific.

All times are UT

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	30.20	5h 40m	5.20	9.00	0h 00m
Trip:	89.90	18h 35m	4.83	11.00	0h 00m

---

Crew: Andy (Skipper), Andrew, Tom, Josh, Lucy Mitchell, Iori, Sandy and the group from Bruern Abbey School.

---

Sunrise: 0559 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1149 hrs   Sunset: 1757 hrs

---

The Shipping Forecast

The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Sun 5 Oct 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Sun 5 Oct 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Mon 6 Oct 2025.

There are gale warnings in:
Viking, North Utsire, South Utsire, Forties, Cromarty, Forth, Tyne, Dogger, Fisher, German Bight, Humber, Thames, Dover, Wight, Lundy, Irish Sea, Rockall, Malin, Hebrides, Bailey, Fair Isle, Faeroes and Southeast Iceland.

The general synopsis at 1800:
Low north of Fair Isle 955 expected Kattegat 990 by 1800 Sunday. High west of FitzRoy 1031 expected FitzRoy 1028 by same time.

Sea Areas:
Dover, Wight

Weather: Northwest 6 to gale 8, decreasing 4 to 6. Moderate, occasionally rough at first. Showers. Good.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 06/10/2025

---

Updated: 25/11/2025

OYT Trip 47 of 2025 - Day 4

Saturday 4^th October 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 45.66' N Long: 001° 17.64' W
Sheppards Yard, Cowes

0800 hrs
A long creaking night! My bunk was right in the bow of the boat, just where all the warps were.

0945 hrs
With all sailing being abandoned a photographic scavenger hunt was arrainged devised for all crews. This lead to an interesting few hours wandering round Cowes finding things and performing tasks with a picture of the challenges. Once back at the boat a team of scorers visited to check the evidence.

The day was stunning sunny, bright with great visibility, if rather windy. In the Solent the sea churned with lots of low waves with white horses.

1400 hrs
All of the crews gather at a local sailing club for an afternoon's entertainment; a sailing related quiz and some construction activities using dry pasta and marshmallows.

All times are UT

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	0.00	0h 00m	0.00	00.00	0h 00m
Trip:	59.70	12h 55m	3.30	11.00	0h 00m

---

Crew: Andy (Skipper), Andrew, Tom, Josh, Lucy Mitchell, Iori, Sandy and the group from Bruern Abbey School.

---

Sunrise: 0559 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1149 hrs   Sunset: 1757 hrs

---

The Shipping Forecast

The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Sat 4 Oct 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Sat 4 Oct 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Sun 5 Oct 2025.

There are gale warnings in:
All areas except Trafalgar.

The general synopsis at 1800:
Low Hebrides 952 expected just north of Fair Isle 953 by 1800 Saturday.

Sea Areas:
Thames, Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth .

Weather:
Southwest veering west, 6 to gale 8. Rough or very rough occasionally moderate. Rain then squally showers. Good, occasionally poor .

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 04/10/2025

---

Updated 27/11/2025

OYT Trip 47 of 2025 - Day 3

Friday 3^rd October 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 44.37' N Long: 001° 30.08' W
Yarmouth Marina, Isle of Wight

0800 hrs
On popping my head out on deck there was thick mist and drizzle! The forecast was talking about an incoming storm, Storm Amy, the second named storm I've been on Prolific.

Due to the lack of visibility it was decided to give the crew some shore time and we wandered round Yarmouth looking like drowned rats, popped into the local shop to stock up on sweets and headed out onto the pier.

0945 hrs
Slipped the lines and departed Yarmouth heading towards Cowes to meet up with other vessels from The Association of Sail Training Organisations as there was a planned 'race' tomorrow. Although with the Met Office forecasting a storm lots of phone calls between skippers and the organisers were happening.

1200 hrs
Lat: 50° 43.25' N Long: 001° 30.52' W
Noon Position

1410 hrs
Lat: 50° 45.66' N Long: 001° 17.64' W
Sheppards Yard, Cowes

Alongside and getting Prolific ready for the blow. Doubling up lines to the pontoon, making sure there was nothing loose on deck and that all the sails were all well lashed down.

Unusually, we decided to have fish and chips for supper. Just about every fish and chip shop in the country is 'Award Winning', but Corries Cabin in Cowes is amonst the best fish and chips I've ever had!

All times are UT.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	19.90	4h 15m	4.10	11.00	0h 00m
Trip:	59.70	12h 55m	3.30	11.00	0h 00m

---

Crew: Andy (Skipper), Andrew, Tom, Josh, Lucy M, Iori, Sandy and the group from Bruern Abbey School.

---

Sunrise: 0559 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1149 hrs   Sunset: 1757 hrs

---

The Shipping Forecast

The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Fri 3 Oct 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Fri 3 Oct 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Sat 4 Oct 2025.

There are gale warnings in:
All areas except Biscay and Trafalgar.

The general synopsis at 1800:
Low moving very rapidly northeast expected west of Scotland 954 by 1800 Friday. Low Hebrides 994 expected north Iceland 975 by same time

Sea Areas:
Thames, Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth

Weather:
South or southwest 5 or 6, increasing 6 to gale 8 for a time later. Occasionally rough at first in Plymouth, otherwise slight or moderate becoming rough or very rough later. Rain for a time. Good, occasionally poor.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 03/10/2025

---

OYT Trip 47 of 2025 - Day 2

Thursday 2^nd October 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 47.68' N Long: 001° 06.53' W
Gunwharf Quay, Portsmouth.

0910 hrs
Depart Gunwharf Quay on a bright sunny morning. Delighted to report that I was able to have a hot shower at the marina and they have slightly improved in my list of marinas.

1200 hrs
Lat: 50° 46.26' N Long: 001° 17.69' W
Noon Position

The afternoon spent doing winch drills and a sail hoist.

1600 hrs
Lat: 50° 44.37' N Long: 001° 30.08' W
Yarmouth Marina, Isle of Wight.

After an interesting reverse into the pontoon we tied up at Yarmouth. First time into Yarmouth and as ever members of Sea Staff bumped into people they knew.

All times are UT.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	23.80	6h 40m	3.60	8.00	0h 00m
Trip:	39.80	8h 40m	5.80	11.00	0h 00m

---

Crew: Andy (Skipper), Andrew, Tom, Josh, Lucy M, Iori, Sandy and the group from Bruern Abbey School.

---

Sunrise: 0559 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1149 hrs   Sunset: 1757 hrs

---

The Shipping Forecast

The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Thu 2 Oct 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Thu 2 Oct 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Fri 3 Oct 2025.

There are gale warnings in:
Viking, North Utsire, South Utsire, Lundy, Fastnet, Irish Sea and Malin.

The general synopsis at 1800:
New low 1000 expected just west of Rockall by 1800 Thursday. New high expected west Trafalgar 1024 by same time

Sea Areas:
Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth

Weather:
Variable 3 or less, becoming southwest 4 to 6. Smooth or slight until later in Dover and Wight, otherwise slight or moderate, occasionally rough later in Plymouth. Fair, rain later in Portland and Plymouth. Moderate or good, occasionally poor later in Portland and Plymouth.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 02/10/2025

---

OYT Trip 47 of 2025 - Day 1

Wednesday 1^st October 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 53.71' N   Long: 001° 23.51' W
Ocean Village, Southampton

0800 hrs
All the Sea Staff are up and prepairing Prolific for the group due to arrive in the afternoon.

The Sainsbury's van arrives with stores to load, deck walk done, lunch then Staff briefing.

1300 hrs
The group arrive and 'start of voyage things happen', including potty talk (heads), explosives (galley) and fancy dress (waterproofs) followed by lifejackets and the clip on game. I like the change to the game this year where we get everybody out on the bowsprit before we go to sea.

1615 hrs
We slipped the mooring and head out of Southampton water towards Portsmouth under motor.

1815 hrs
Lat: 50° 47.68' N Long: 001° 06.53' W
Gunwharf Quay, Portsmouth.

Hoping for a hot shower this trip.

All times are UT.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	16.00	2h 00m	8.00	11.00	0h 00m
Trip:	16.00	2h 00m	8.00	11.00	0h 00m

---

Crew: Andy (Skipper), Andrew, Tom, Josh, Lucy M, Iori, Sandy and the group from Bruern Abbey School.

---

Sunrise: 0559 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1150 hrs   Sunset: 1757 hrs

---

The Shipping Forecast

The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Wed 1 Oct 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Wed 1 Oct 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Thu 2 Oct 2025 .

There are gale warnings in:
Viking, North Utsire, Bailey, Fair Isle, Faeroes and Southeast Iceland.

The general synopsis at 1800:
Low 450 miles southwest of Iceland 983 expected just north of Iceland 980 by 1800 Wednesday. New high expected just west of Trafalgar 1025 by same time

Sea Areas:
Dover, Wight

Forecast:
Variable 3 or less. Smooth or slight. Fair. Good

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 01/10/2025

---

OYT Trip 46 of 2025 - Day 4

Tuesday 30^th September 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 53.71' N Long: 001° 23.51' W
Ocean Village, Southampton

0800 hrs
After breakfast and packing the usual very happy hour, an extra good clean of Prolific. Then followed the voyage summary and the handing out of certificates.

1000 hrs
The crew depart and the kettle goes on.

1300 hrs
Following lunch the boat checks are carried out, items mended and kit stowed.

During the afternoon Sea Staff who are leaving the boat pack and say their farewells and joining Sea Staff arrive, say hello and grab a bunk.

1830 hrs
All Sea Staff onboard head out for a meal in a little Greek resturant in Southampton

All times are UT.

---

OYT Trip 46 of 2025 - Day 3

Monday 29^th September 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 47.66' N Long: 001° 06.61' W
Gunwharf Quay, Portsmouth.

0900 hrs
On a lovely sunny morning we slipped our lines and headed out of Portsmouth passing the hovercraft on route to Ryde. At the south cardinal at the start of the channel we turned west and headed up the Solent.

1030 hrs
Man overboard drills as a couple of small fishing boats dropped their pots. Even got a wave from one of them.

1110 hrs
Lat: 50° 46.86' N Long: 001° 10.89' W
Off Gosport, Hampshire.

Dropped anchor on a stunning autum day, while the lunch team sorted out the meal we broke into groups for a session on knots, lunch and some basic chartwork.

1400 hrs
Anchor raised and the crew took charge of Prolific for the run back to Ocean Village through the North Channel then buoy hopping up Southampton Sound.

1640 hrs
Lat: 50° 53.71' N Long: 001° 23.51' W
Ocean Village, Southampton

Along side on the south side of the hotel in Ocean Village.

All times are UT.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	20.10	4h 00m	5.00	8.00	0h 00m
Trip:	84.30	11h 25m	5.53	10.30	0h 00m

---

Crew: Lauren (Skipper), Cathy, Josh, Jack, Simon, Sandy, Peter and the group

---

Sunrise: 0559 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1150 hrs   Sunset: 1757 hrs

---

The Shipping Forecast

The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Mon 29 Sep 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Mon 29 Sep 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Tue 30 Sep 2025.

There are gale warnings in:
None

The general synopsis at 1800:
Low Spain 1010 slow-moving with little change by 1800 Monday. New high expected FitzRoy 1021 by same time.

Sea Areas:
Dover, Wight

Weather:
Northeast becoming variable, 2 to 4. Smooth or slight. Fair. Good, occasionally moderate at first.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 29/09/2025

---

OYT Trip 46 of 2025 - Day 2

Sunday 28^th September 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 42.63' N Long: 001° 29.56' W
Off Yarmouth, Isle of Wright

0110 hrs
Jack shook me awake with a start! My alarm had not gone off due to me setting it for a specific day. I climbed out of my bunk, dressed and made my way up to the shed where he handed over the watch and quietly headed back to his bunk. Leaving me alone and not quite fully awake

Sitting watching Hurst Point Lighthouse flashing four every 15 seconds was quite mesmerising and being quite close to the shoreline I could make out odd shapes and traffic driving up and down the road. I was quite sure they had no idea that we were here.

Just as Peter came up to take over the watch an alarm sounded as the batteries were getting low. Josh was fetched from his bunk to record the voltage and turn the generator on then I quietly slipped below and back to my bunk for a brief sleep before we slipped the mooring and headed off round the island.

0530 hrs
Tumbled out of my bunk, got dressed in full oilies, made a quick cup of tea and emerged with the watch on deck just as it was getting light.

0600 hrs
Safely off the mooring having watched a cracking sunrise between layers of cloud I led the breakfast team below to heat up croissants and pain au chocolate. After feeding the crew it was time for another brew before heading up on deck. Meals and the washing up always take for ages at sea.

0730 hrs
We had rounded the Needles and the sea was lumpy. Many of the crew were inspecting their last two meals in the bottom of a bucket and it was apparent that the next few hours would see Sea Staff working the deck.

0800 hrs
The skipper handed me the deck and being the only one on deck I needed to take the wheel! After 20 minutes she popped her head through the shed door and gave me the thumbs up. We we cracking along at six knots in a F5 with one reef in the main and mizzen when I had one of these rare 'pinch me' moments - yes I was really doing this and it felt fantastic; the wind in my hair and the spray in my face.

As the crew found their sea legs they came back up on deck. We rotated crew on the helm when one young lad announced he was going to be sick. We could not get a bucket to him fast enough and I witnessed him projectile vomit over the deck before the wind caught it and threw it back on his lifejacket and foulies. To complicate matters I discovered that he had clipped onto the rail behind him which delayed him being able to move and get cleaned up, he was not having a great day!

0930 hrs
Lat: 50° 32.10' N Long: 001° 18.35' W
Off St. Catherine's Lighthouse, Isle of Wright

Cracking along at about 10 knots and enjoying the sailing.

1130 hrs
In Bembridge Bay and in the lea of the island where the sea state had got smoother lunch was served as we did race tracks in the water looking at all the anchored ships waiting to go into Southampton and Portsmouth.

1200 hrs
Lat: 50° 42.21' N Long: 001° 03.24' W
Noon Position.

1345 hrs
Lat: 50° 47.66' N Long: 001° 06.61' W
Gunwharf Quay, Portsmouth.

Alongside in the sunshine. Once we had tied up, sorted out the gangway it was time for 'happy hour', clean the boat.

1500 hrs
Shore leave for the crew and as they were all under 16 an opportunity to stretch out legs as we accompanied them round the shopping center. We had split into a number of small groups, but all met up in the small Tesco's for the purchase of sweets and biscuits before we headed back to Prolific.

2030 hrs
After dinner I was able to slip off for a shower, sadly the water was freezing in the cubicle I was using! Brrrrr. It always astounds me that architects have no idea about the needs of a sailor in a shower block. Gunwharf Quay gets a one star rating in my marina guide.

All times are UT.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	46.80	7h 45m	6.00	10.00	0h 00m
Trip:	64.30	11h 25m	5.80	10.30	0h 00m

---

Crew: Lauren (Skipper), Cathy, Josh, Jack, Simon, Sandy, Peter and the group

---

Sunrise: 0559 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1151 hrs   Sunset: 1757 hrs

---

The Shipping Forecast

The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Sun 28 Sep 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Sun 28 Sep 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Mon 29 Sep 2025 .

There are gale warnings in:
Viking, North Utsire, South Utsire, Trafalgar and FitzRoy.

The general synopsis at 1800:
Low Southeast Iceland 1002 expected 150 miles north of Faeroes 1007 by 1800 Sunday. Low south FitzRoy 997 expected Spain 1010 by same time.

Sea Areas:
Humber, Thames, Dover, Wight

Weather:
South or southeast 3 to 5, becoming variable 2 to 4 later. Slight, occasionally smooth. Showers. Good.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 28/09/2025

---

OYT Trip 46 of 2025 - Day 1

Saturday 27^th September 2025

0000 hrs
Lat: 50° 53.71' N Long: 001° 23.51' W
Ocean Village, Southampton

With mixed feelings I had driven up to Southampton the previous day for three 'back to back' trips that were to be my last trips as Sea Staff with the Ocean Youth Trust. Over the summer I had taken the decision that due to my hearing loss it was time to swallow this particular anchor.

Supper the previous night had been in the Maritimo Lounge, as noisy as ever and difficult to hear anybody.

0800 hrs
The agreed start of our working day, the deck walk was the first task to complete followed stowing the food for the trip, a final clean of Prolific before lunch.

1315 hrs
Welcomed the crew from The Vyne School, a group that I have sailed with before, the name game, heads and galley briefings followed by kitting out in oilies, or as it was described 'potty and explosives training, and fancy dress'.

It is always interesting to sail with people who you have sailed with as crew in previous years and we had one returnee.

1515 hrs
We slipped the moornings, headed out of Ocean Village and into Southampton Water. Winch breifings were conducted and we headed down to the mooring buoy off Yarmouth.

1845 hrs
Lat: 50° 42.63' N Long: 001° 29.56' W
Off Yarmouth, Isle of Wright

Following supper I settled for the night as I had been allocated anchor watch between 0100 hrs and 0230 hrs.

All times are UT.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	17.50	3h 40m	5.60	10.30	0h 00m
Trip:	17.50	3h 40m	5.60	10.30	0h 00m

---

Crew: Lauren (Skipper), Cathy, Josh, Jack, Simon, Sandy, Peter and the group

---

Sunrise: 0559 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1151 hrs   Sunset: 1757 hrs

---

The Shipping Forecast

The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Sat 27 Sep 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Sat 27 Sep 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Sun 28 Sep 2025.

There are gale warnings in:
Viking, North Utsire, South Utsire, Trafalgar, FitzRoy, Rockall, Malin, Hebrides, Fair Isle and Faeroes.

The general synopsis at 1800:
Low 300 miles west of Trafalgar 998 expected FitzRoy 997 by 1800 Saturday. New lows expected Irish Sea 1010 and Faeroes 1000 by same time

Sea Areas:
Humber, Thames, Dover, Wight

Weather:
Northerly or northwesterly 3 to 5, occasionally 6 in northwest, becoming variable 2 to 4 in northeast for a time. Slight or moderate. Showers. Good.South or southeast, 2 to 4, occasionally 5 later. Smooth or slight, becoming slight or moderate later in Humber and Wight. Showers later in Wight. Good, occasionally moderate later in Wight

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 27/09/2025

---

Shakedown Sail

Thursday 11^th September 2025

 

0000   hrs

Lat: 50° 24.33' N Long: 004° 12.32' W
The Mooring

0700 hrs

Spent the night onboard as the J24 World Championships were being hosted by Saltash Sailing Club and Plym Yacht Club and everybody was invited to a 'Cornish Evening'. A social with pasties and cream teas, I did have a chuckle to see the pasties were made in Devon and the cream teas were served in both the Cornish and Devonian style, they also had a very, very loud band.

While I've not sailed Aphrodite over the summer she is staying on the mooring so I can sail over the winter.  However, I have been down on the boat several times checking her and working on some improvements, but today was going to be the first time I'd take her off the mooring and raise the sails.

1245 hrs

After a morning of sunshine and showers, the forecast was spot on, hoisted the main with two reefs in and slipped the mooring.

Delighted to say that leaving the mooring was a lot easier than I had envisaged.  Took off the port bow line, past it in front of the forestay and attached it to the karabina.  Repeated the process with the aft lines, slipped the aft lines then walked forward and slipped the remaining bow line and the boat drifted away from the mooring buoys.

John was on the wheel in case it went horribly wrong.

I left John on the wheel as he had not helmed on a boat with a wheel before and set about unfurling part of the genoa as we headed down river close hauled before turning off the engine and settling down to the task of looking after the sails.

As we passed the Lynher river to our starboard we were hit with a 30 knot gust! Turned smartly round and headed back up river under the Tamar Bridges, where we lost all wind, before heading towards Cargreen.

With just over three metres of water under the keel, don't you love big spring tides, we turned south again just off Devonport Naval Base and got in a right muddle.  Hammered by 35 then 0 knots with speeds through the water ranging from 0 to 7.5 knots!  

On seeing that we were doing zero knots, both SOG and STW, I started the engine to get through a tack. Thirty seconds later the engine sounded a high temperature alarm and I went into 'Don't panic' mode.  

We sailed up the river discussing the option to sail onto the mooring. We did attempt it, but did not quite manage the maneuver and I sadly lost an old and faithful boathook. Time for Plan B and I gingerly turned the engine on just as we were hit with a 20 knot gust, crossed my fingers and took the wheel. Thankfully, no temperature alarms this time and came alongside the mooring at ½ knot. John sprung onto the foredeck and picked up the lines.  

1515 hrs

Back on the mooring.

While a short shakedown I was delighted to see that getting on and off the mooring was not as terrifying as it had become in my head. Given the amount of time the boat has been on the mooring and the visible slime on the hull she moved at about six knots through the water at times! A couple of small issues were found, I had not rigged the reefing lines at the end of the boom correctly and there was on sail slide not in the slot. Both are easily fixed.

While I need to investigate the engine temperature alarm I am sure it was something partially over the raw water intake, we did have some cooling water exit the exhaust.

After sorting out the sails and tidying up I noticed that the club bar was open and a celebratory drink was in order.  

All times are UTC.

---

 

The Log

 
                                                                     

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	7.30	2h 30m	2.92	7.00	00h 00m
Year:	12.60	3h 36m	3.96	7.00	00h 00m

---

Crew: Sandy Garrity (Skipper), John McMurdo

---

Sunrise: 0542 hrs     Meridian Passage: 1159 hrs     Sunset: 1931 hrs

---

Weather: The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at  00:15 (UTC+1) on Thu 11 Sep 2025 for the period  01:00 (UTC+1) on Thu 11 Sep 2025 to  01:00 (UTC+1) on Fri 12 Sep 2025.

There are  warnings of gales in Viking, North Utsire, South Utsire, Forties, Shannon, Malin, Hebrides, Bailey, Fair Isle and Faeroes.

The general synopsis at 1800

Low Malin 987 expected Faeroes 975 by 1800 Thursday

Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth

West or southwest 5 to 7. Moderate or rough, occasionally very rough in west Plymouth. Showers, thundery at times. Good, occasionally poor.

   

      © Met Office Synoptic Chart 11/09/2025  

---

Updated: 14/09/2025

OYT Trip 04 of 2025 - Day 4

Saturday 12^th April 2025

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 34.42' N   Long: 002° 27.18' W
Portland Marina.

0800 hrs

Wake, breakfast then 'Happy Hour'.

1000 hrs

Depart from Portland. Sadly from time to time on a sail training voyage things don't work out smoothly on a trip, this was one occasion, and after a significant amount of consultation the skipper decided that two crew members would need to leave Prolific. It was decided that we would motor to Poole where the crew members could be collected by family and due to tides we needed to arrive before the ebb. A fast motor, more of an 'Italian tune' of the engine was made and we arrived in Poole in double quick time.

1430 hrs

Lat: 50° 42.70' N   Long: 001° 59.08' W
Poole

Following the departure of the two crew members an ice cream was enjoyed and a stroll along the pier before settling down for a film onboard.

All times are UTC.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	32.00	4h 30m	7.11	12.00	0
Trip:	105.85	25h 00m	4.23	12.00	0
Year:	179.00	36h 30m	4.90	12.00	0

---

Crew: Andrew W (skipper), Brigid, Katie, Josh, Sara, Si, Harry, Sandy and the MDL group.

---

Sunrise: 0527 hrs    Meridian Passage: 1201 hrs   Sunset: 1849 hrs

---

Weather: Not available

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 11/04/2025

---

OYT Trip 04 of 2025 - Day 3

Saturday 12^th April 2025

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 425.63' N   Long: 001° 29.65' W
Off Yarmouth, Isle of Wright

0800 hrs

Wake, breakfast then 'Happy Hour'.

1000 hrs

Depart for Portland.

A cracking spring day with warm sunshine and fishing pot ally in Poole Bay.

2000 hrs

Lat: 50° 34.42' N   Long: 002° 27.18' W
Fuel Berth, Portland Marina.

Following arrival at the fuel berth the crew went off for a visit to the local shop with we got on with the process of fueling Prolific a task that usually takes a couple of hours. Following fueling we moved off the berth to allow others to use it. Convently the crew arrived back and supper was started.

I had not visited Portland Marina for some time, but being with a young crew did not allow us any time to enjoy the facilities.

All times are UTC.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	50.00	10h 00m	5.00	10.00	0
Trip:	73.85	16h 30m	4.47	10.00	0
Year:	179.00	36h 30m	4.90	12.00	0

---

Crew: Andrew W (skipper), Brigid, Katie, Josh, Sara, Si, Harry, Sandy and the MDL group.

---

Sunrise: 0527 hrs    Meridian Passage: 1201 hrs   Sunset: 1849 hrs

---

Weather: Not available

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 11/04/2025

---

OYT Trip 04 of 2025 - Day 2

Friday 11^th April 2025

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 45.70' N   Long: 001° 17.67' W
Sheppards, Cowes, Isle of Wright

0800 hrs

Wake, breakfast then 'Happy Hour'.

1000 hrs

On a bright, sunny day the crew accompanied by several sea staff venture into Cowes for a spot of 'shopping', a very popular activity, where significant amounts of sweets were purchased along with some souvenirs.

On spotting that Neil Williams Photography shop was open I popped in and thanked the man himself for his amazing photographs and YouTube videos about his trip round the UK. He was more than a tad surprised!

Neil Williams Photography Shop, Cowes Isle of Wight.

We continued to amble up the High Street to the ice cream shop last visited in 2024. I was delighted to see that they had changed brand from Kelly's of Cornwall to an island brand. It is always good to support your local ice cream manufacturer.

1230 hrs

Back onboard Prolific for lunch and prep the boat for an afternoon trip down to Yarmouth along with winch drills and sail hoists.

1630 hrs

With Prolific being helmed by a crew member. Katie, Harry and I went forward to pick up the mooring buoy. Out of the three of us I was the only one who had done this before, Katie was out on the netting and Harry assisted me at the tide was running swiftly. We were all rather surprised when we picked up the buoy first time. On chatting to the crew member later she said this was the first time she had helmed any boat, even more surprising as she did it like a pro.

All times are UTC.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	15.60	5h 00m	3.10	10.00	0
Trip:	23.85	6h 30m	3.70	10.00	0
Year:	129.00	26h 30m	4.86	12.00	0

---

Crew: Andrew W (skipper), Brigid, Katie, Josh, Sara, Si, Harry, Sandy and the MDL group.

---

Sunrise: 0527 hrs    Meridian Passage: 1201 hrs   Sunset: 1849 hrs

---

Weather: Not available

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 11/04/2025

---

OYT Trip 04 of 2025 - Day 1

Thursday 10^th April 2025

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 53.66' N   Long: 001° 23.34' W
Ocean Village, Southampton, Hampshire

0800 hrs

Wake, breakfast and sea staff change over.

1400 hrs

The new crew are welcomed aboard. A group of youngsters that MDL, one of the OYTs major sponsors, had funded berths for.

1700 hrs

After settling the crew in, welcomes and briefings we made a quick dash under motor to Cowes for the night.

1830 hrs

Alongside at Sheppard's in Cowes.

All times are UTC.

---

Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	8.25	1h 30m	5.50	7.00	0
Trip:	8.25	1h 30m	5.50	7.00	0
Year:	121.65	23h 00m	5.20	12.00	0

---

Crew: Andrew W (skipper), Brigid, Katie, Josh, Sara, Si, Harry, Sandy and the MDL group.

---

Sunrise: 0521 hrs    Meridian Passage: 1201 hrs   Sunset: 1852 hrs

---

Weather: Not Recorded

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 10/04/2025

---