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 on deck.

0800 hrs

The skipper handed me the deck and the wheel! After 20 minuits 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 and I had one of these rare pinch me moments - yes I was really doing this and if 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 and one young lad said 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 and himself. Only to discover that he had clipped in and we were unable to move him off the wheel quickly, 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 cabins.

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 one star in my marina guide.

All times are UTC.

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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

---

Weather: 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 warnings of gales 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.

Humber, Thames, Dover, Wight

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

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 28/09/2025

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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

Settled for the night, but with an anchor watch to do between 0100 hrs and 0230 hrs.

All times are UTC.

---

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

---

Weather: 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 warnings of gales 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

Humber, Thames, Dover, Wight

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

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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

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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.

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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

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OYT Trip 03 of 2025 - Day 4

Tuesday 8^th April 2025

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 42.70' N   Long: 001° 59.11' W
Poole, Dorset

0700 hrs

Awake and time for breakfast and happy hour.

0945 hrs

Slipped the lines and head out into the Poole Bay, I've renamed it 'Pot Hell', eastwards towards the Solent and back to Ocean Village.

1200 hrs

Lat: 50° 39.14' N   Long: 001° 47.40' W
Noon Position

1400 hrs

Another Pot Hell (Poole Bay) with a good lookout for pots and back into the Solent via the North Channel.

1600 hrs

The Trust had use of a mooring off Yarmouth that we were to pick up, prepair supper and do some pilotage before motoring Prolific back to Ocean Village in the dark.

Chris and I were asked to go forward to pick up the mooring, armed with the longest boat hook I've ever used Prolific was skilfully manoeuvred to the mooring where I was lucky to get the pickup buoy on first strike and brought the mooring line inboard.

Getting Ready to Picking up the buoy
© OYT South 08/04/2025

1820 hrs

With the sun setting we cast off from the mooring and the crew navigate Prolific back to Ocean Village.

2100 hrs

Happily tucked up on the pontoon in Ocean Village.

All times are UTC.

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Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	42.20	08h 30m	5.00	12.00	0
Trip:	83.40	17h 05m	4.84	12.00	0
Year:	113.40	21h 30m	5.40	12.00	0

---

Crew: Constantinos (Skipper), Michelle, Katie, Cathy, Sara, Chris L, Sandy and the school group.

---

Sunrise: 0531 hrs    Meridian Passage: 1202 hrs   Sunset: 1850 hrs

---

Weather: The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 00:15 (UTC+1) on Tue 8 Apr 2025 for the period 01:00 (UTC+1) on Tue 8 Apr 2025 to 01:00 (UTC+1) on Wed 9 Apr 2025.

There are warnings of gales in Trafalgar.

The general synopsis at 1800

High Forties 1029 slow-moving with little change

Thames, Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth

East or northeast 3 to 5. Slight or moderate, occasionally smooth in shelter. Fair. Good

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 08/04/2025

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OYT Trip 03 of 2025 - Day 3

Monday 7^th April 2025

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 45.62' N   Long: 001° 17.59' W
Sheppards Marina, Cowes, Isle of Wright

0600 hrs

Awake and time for breakfast and an early get away for Poole.

0715 hrs

Slipped the lines and head out to the western Solent on a stunning April morning.

Out past Hurst Castle and into the North Channel.

1200 hrs

Lat: 50° 37.59' N   Long: 001° 42.60' W
Noon Position

1400 hrs

Crossing Poole Bay was very much a game of dodge the pots in delightful sunshine.

1615 hrs

Waiting in the main channel into Poole Harbour for the Channel Islands supply ship to pass when a small speedboat zoomed between us and the supply ship! A total twonk who clearly had no idea of the risk he was taking.

As we were reversing into our berth at Poole Quay Boat Haven the same twonk entered our allocated berth as the marina staff, who were waiting to take our lines, looked on in utter astonishment. It was clear that he had not looked behind him and had no idea we were reversing a 105 tonne boat towards him. The marina staff asked him to move to the next pontoon - he was insistent that he was just 'picking up his wife' who was clearly holding some fish and chips.

As I was on the stern I looked on I could only look and wonder about the lack of basic seamanship demonstrated by the speedboat skipper.

Poole Quay Boat Haven

1730 hrs

The crew ashore for showers, ice cream and stocking up on sugar.

All times are UTC.

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Prolific Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	42.00	08h 30m	5.00	12.00	0
Trip:	83.40	17h 05m	4.84	12.00	0
Year:	113.40	21h 30m	5.40	12.00	0

---

Crew: Constantinos (Skipper), Michelle, Katie, Cathy, Sara, Chris L, Sandy and the school group.

---

Sunrise: 0530 hrs    Meridian Passage: 1202 hrs   Sunset: 1848 hrs

---

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

The general synopsis at 1800

High Viking 1030 expected Forties unchanged by 1800 Monday

Thames, Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth

East or northeast 3 to 5. Slight or moderate, occasionally smooth later. Fair. Good.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 07/04/2025

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OYT Trip 03 of 2025 - Day 2

Sunday 6^th April 2025

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 47.68' N   Long: 001° 06.52' W
Gun Wharf, Portsmouth, Hampshire

0800 hrs

After a quiet night in the forepeak with Chris, a new trainee mate it was time for breakfast then moving swiftly into 'happy hour' that time of day that crews love best when it is time to tidy up Prolific - something that always takes longer the first time as people need to find where things are.

1645 hrs

We tied up at Sheppard's in Cowes, the crew piled off the boat in search of a shop for sweets, biscuits and all things sugary.

All times are UTC.

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Prolific Log

	Underway	Distance NM	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	06h 20m	24.50	3.90	9.00	0
Trip:	08h 35m	40.40	4.84	9.50	0
Year:	13h 00m	70.40	5.40	10.40	0

---

Crew: Constantinos (Skipper), Michelle, Katie, Cathy, Sara, Chris L, Sandy and the school group.

---

Sunrise: 0532 hrs    Meridian Passage: 1202 hrs   Sunset: 1843 hrs

---

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

The general synopsis at 1800

New high expected on boundary between Forties and Dogger 1029 by 1800 Sunday

Humber, Thames, Dover, Wight, Portland, North Plymouth

Easterly or northeasterly 4 to 6. Moderate or rough at first in Portland and north Plymouth, otherwise slight or moderate. Fair. Good

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 06/04/2025

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OYT Trip 03 of 2025 - Day 1

Saturday 5^th April 2025

0000 hrs

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

I had driven up to Ocean Village on Friday night and arrived in time to meet the Sea Staff leaving Prolific for a meal ashore in the Maritimo Lounge. I quickly stowed my kit in the forepeak and headed off for supper.

0700 hrs

The alarm rang and it was time for breakfast and to get Prolific ready for her new crew. The usual loading with provisions, deck walk and skippers breifing followed by lunch and a final tidy up.

1300 hrs

The crew arrived in one minibus and are welcomed aboard, the round of safety breifings are held, kit issued and people settle into living aboard.

1645 hrs

Unusually, the decision to slip lines and motor to Portsmouth had been taken. It had been decided that winch drills would be done the following morning as the average age of the crew was quite young and darkness would be falling by the time we got to Gun Wharf.

Not having to do winch drills meant that the youngsters could go on deck and could look round and enjoy an hour or so on deck getting the feel of being on a large sailing vessel.

1845 hrs

Lat: 50° 47.68' N   Long: 001° 06.52' W
Gun Wharf, Portsmouth, Hampshire

Arrived Gun Wharf and after much adjusting of the boat the skipper was happy with her position and it was time for supper.

Spinnaker Tower from Gun Wharf

All times are UTC.

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Prolific Log

	Underway	Distance NM	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	02h 15m	15.90	6.00	9.00	0
Trip:	02h 15m	15.90	6.00	9.00	0
Year:	06h 31m	45.90	7.06	10.40	0

---

Crew: Constantinos (Skipper), Michelle, Katie, Cathy, Sara, Chris L, Sandy and the school group.

---

Sunrise: 0535 hrs    Meridian Passage: 1203 hrs   Sunset: 1843 hrs

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

There are warnings of gales in Viking, North Utsire, Lundy and Irish Sea.

The general synopsis at 1800

High Norwegian Sea 1037 slow-moving, declining 1033. Low south FitzRoy 1001 losing its identity

Thames, Dover, Wight, Portland

Northeast 4 to 6. Moderate, occasionally slight. Fair. Good, occasionally moderate

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 05/04/2025

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OYT Trip 01 of 2025 - Shakedown

Thursday 20^th March 2025

0000 hrs

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

I popped up to Prolific in Southampton for some maintenance work and the shakedown trip with the riggers onboard. I find this sail at the start of the season allows me to reacquaint myself with all the lines and get involved in some sail hoists.

0901 hrs

The spring equinox.

A quick blast down Southampton Water and into the Eastern Solent sailing at all sorts of wind angles to allow the riggers to adjust the rigging with some of the biggest spanners I've seen. Then back to Ocean Village for more maintenance.

All times are UTC.

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Prolific Log

	Underway	Distance NM	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day	04h 16m	30.00	7.00	10.40	0

---

Crew: Constantinos, Josh, Sara, Rooby, Patrick, Sandy, Linnea & Shaun

---

Sunrise: 0611 hrs   Meridian Passage: 1207 hrs   Sunset: 1817 hrs

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Weather: The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 23:30 (UTC) on Wed 19 Mar 2025 for the period 00:00 (UTC) on Thu 20 Mar 2025 to 00:00 (UTC) on Fri 21 Mar 2025 .

There are warnings of gales in Biscay, Trafalgar and FitzRoy.

The general synopsis at 1800

Low Trafalgar 993 expected FitzRoy 986 by 1800 Thursday. New high expected Norway 1023 by same time

Wight, Portland

East or southeast 3 to 5, occasionally 2 at first. Slight or moderate, occasionally smooth at first in Wight. Fair. Good

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 20/03/2025

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OYT: Trip 46 of 2024 - Day 1

Sunday 22^nd September 2024

0830 hrs

I climbed on board the train for the journey east to Southampton for the last trip of 2024 on Prolific. As ever the rain was hammering down, that is sailing in late September and early October for you. Part of my journey was to be by a rail replacement bus, a first for me.

At Gillingham in Dorset we de-trained and headed for the buses to take us to Salisbury, all quite painless if a tad damp. The unexpected drive through parts of the country I'd not seen before was enjoyable, but the grey sky dampen the mood.

While waiting at Salisbury for the connection to Southampton I spotted a couple with luggage who were clearly going on a cruise and we joked about the weather that we might encounter. They off to the Mediterranean and me round the Solent.

With the bus arriving to collect us outside the station we all clambered on and found a seat. Beside me was a retired Australian General Practitioner who was doing some travelling after a life of looking after patients. We chatted in detail about how the UK and Australia dealt, or did not deal, with the COVID pandemic.

1330 hrs

The bus deposited us outside Southampton Central railway station and headed off to its final destination. I then headed down to Ocean Village to await Prolific arrive from one of her short day sails and set up the camera to take some pictures of her arriving at her berth.

Prolific heading towards Ocean Village.

1600 hrs

Once Prolific had tied up alongside I made my way down to the boat to join her. The crew would be arriving tomorrow.

---

Crew: Constantinos, Lauren, Glyn, Cathy, Lima, Rose and Sandy.

---

Sunrise: 0552 hrs Sunset: 1802 hrs

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Weather: Forecast valid from: 01:00 (UTC+1) on Sun 22 Sep 2024 until 01:00 (UTC+1) on Mon 23 Sep 2024

Dover, Wight

Variable becoming east or southeast, then veering southwest later, 2 to 4, occasionally 5 in Wight. Smooth or slight. Thundery showers. Good, occasionally poor.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 22/09/2024

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OYT: Trip 09 of 2024 - Day 4

Friday 26^th April 2024

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 45.70'N Long: 001° 17.67'W

1300 hrs

Slipped lines and headed out past the the Cowes Breakwater. On the main hoist a line got tangled and it took some time to fix. I helmed, attempting to keep Prolific 'on station', using a couple of transits. A useful exercise in keeping the boat still.

1500 hrs

An afternoon in the east Solent tacking and gybing in some fresh winds.

1900 hrs

At anchor in Ryde Bay, dinner and sorted out the night navigation exercise back to Ocean Village.

2100 hrs

Anchor raised crew take over command and pilot Prolific into the north channel, then up Southampton Water to Ocean Village.

0000 hrs

Tied up alongside, time for a coffee and then bed.

All times are UTC.

---

The Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	20.00	9h 45m	10.00	17.00	3h 00m
Trip:	148.00	7h 15m	3.80	17.00	3h 00m
Year:	140.00	31h 26m	3.84	17.00	3h 00m

---

Crew: Constantinos, Lauren, Glyn, Katie, Willoughby, Vince, Sandy and the school crew.

---

Sunrise: 0425 hrs Sunset: 1950 hrs

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Weather: Forecast valid from: 01:00 (UTC+1) on Fri 26 Apr 2024 until 01:00 (UTC+1) on Sat 27 Apr 2024

Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth

Cyclonic 3 to 5, occasionally easterly or northeasterly 6 in north Wight and north Portland. Slight or moderate, but rough for a time in west Plymouth. Rain or showers. Good, occasionally poor

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 26/04/2024

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OYT: Trip 09 of 2024 - Day 3

Thursday 25^th April 2024

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 45.70'N Long: 001° 17.67'W

0705 hrs

Cast off from the quay. The crew had been advised that we were leaving early, but still managed to go ashore to use the facilities and got back on time, just.

1200 hrs

Lat: 50° 37.62'N Long: 001° 43.28'W

Having made good time running on over the bay with both the main and mizzen well out and preventors deployed. The watch on deck were informed that we would be entering the Solent via the north passage, to dodge some of the tide, and get a good look at Hurst Point.

In a big boat it looked like we were going to ram the beach, lets not mention the poorly marked pots! Eventually we changed course by 90° and were running parallel to the beach with the wind building. With one reef in the mizzen, a full main and the jib hoisted we were charging along at about 8 knots.

Passing Hurst Point we noticed a catamaran to port that was exiting the Solent and was either asleep or looking at their phone. Lauren, on the helm, let go with five blasts on the horn as both vessels were travelling at speed had a huge grin on her face.

Vince came forward and reported that we were recording a F7, wind against tide would be interesting, but we were still making 7 knots over the round. Things were brisk!

1650 hrs

All tied fast back at Cowes Yacht Haven. As we were entering Cowes I noticed a World War II Spitfire overhead.

All times are UTC.

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The Log

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	59.00	9h 45m	10.00	17.00	0h 00m
Trip:	129.50	18h 51m	3.80	17.00	0h 00m
Year:	140.00	31h 26m	3.84	17.00	0h 00m

---

Crew: Constantinos, Lauren, Glyn, Katie, Willoughby, Vince, Sandy and the school crew.

---

Sunrise: 0425 hrs Sunset: 1950 hrs

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Weather: Forecast valid from: 01:00 (UTC+1) on Thu 25 Apr 2024 until 01:00 (UTC+1) on Fri 26 Apr 2024

Dover, Wight, Portland

Variable 2 or 3, becoming west or southwest 4 to 6 for a time. Smooth or slight, occasionally moderate in Dover and Wight. Showers. Good, occasionally moderate.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 25/04/2024

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OYT: Trip 09 of 2024 - Day 2

Wednesday 24^th April 2024

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 45.70'N Long: 001° 17.67'W

0730 hrs

Awake and quietly left the boat to check out the showers. Oh dear, another marina who's architect has no idea what a sailor needs from an amenity block. I want somewhere that I can undress with ease, can hang up my kit, can sit, has a screen that keeps my kit dry and don't need to press a wee button to keep the supply of warmish water running.

Despite not being the greatest showers on the planet the place was busy – even with muzak playing insistently. Showered and shaved I returned back to the boat for breakfast.

0954 hrs

Cast off from the pontoon heading for Weymouth, Dorset. On leaving the river Medina we turned to the west, raised the sails and motor sailed down the western Solent in light winds.

1500 hrs

Just off St Albans Ledge, an interesting standing wave on the ledge, the wind filled in and we were able to turn off the engine and properly sail. Man overboard under sail followed in quite quiet conditions.

The ranges were pretty active and the sound of the guns could clearly be heared.

1815 hrs

Lat: 50° 45.70'N Long: 001° 17.67'W

Arrived Weymouth. My second visit to this wee town, must try and get back and explore it one day.

The crew departed for a walk round town and to the beach. Where one or two got rather wet.

2200 hrs

The day's work done I finally was able to have a shower.

All times are UTC.

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The Numbers for Prolific

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	50.00	6h 21m	7.90	10.00	0h 00m
Trip:	60.50	9h 06m	6.66	10.00	0h 00m
Year:	140.00	31h 26m	3.84	12.00	0h 00m

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Crew: Constantinos, Lauren, Glyn, Katie, Willoughby, Vince, Sandy and the school crew.

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Sunrise: 0425 hrs Sunset: 1950 hrs

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Weather: Forecast valid from: 01:00 (UTC+1) on Wed 24 Apr 2024 until 01:00 (UTC+1) on Thu 25 Apr 2024

Wight, Portland, Plymouth

Variable 2 to 4 in Portland, elsewhere north or northwest 3 to 5, becoming variable 2 to 4. Smooth or slight, occasionally moderate. Showers. Good, occasionally moderate.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 24/04/2024

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OYT: Trip 09 of 2024 - Day 1

Tuesday 23^rd April 2024

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 53.71'N Long: 001° 23.50'W

I had driven up to Southampton the previous day to assist on one of Prolific’s maintenance days. After doing several tasks the Sea Staff went out for dinner and a couple of pints at one of the places in Ocean Village.

1300 hrs

The group from Greig City Academy, who run the boat Scaramouch, from north London school joined the boat.

1515 hrs

Cast off from the pontoon heading for Cowes. We had left the pontoon with enough tide to get out of the berth and then slowly motored down the Itchen and Southampton Water giving the usual winch drills.

Before entering Cowes we watched, Triana, one of the Golden Globe Race 2023 competitors complete their round the world adventure. While not a fan of these 'back to the golden age of sailing' events it was interesting to watch a lone sailing boat surrounded by lots of excited people in ribs.

1800 hrs

Lat: 50° 45.70'N Long: 001° 17.67'W

Alongside at Cowes Yacht Haven, a new venue to me as we usually come alongside at Sheppards when in Cowes.

All times are UTC.

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The Numbers for Prolific

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	10.50	2h 45m	3.80	5.00	0h 00m
Trip:	10.50	2h 45m	3.80	5.00	0h 00m
Year:	81.50	22h 20m	3.65	12.00	0h 00m

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Crew: Constantinos, Lauren, Glyn, Katie, Willoughby, Vince, Sandy and the school crew.

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Sunrise: 0425 hrs Sunset: 1950 hrs

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Weather: Forecast valid from: 01:00 (UTC+1) on Tue 23 Apr 2024 until 01:00 (UTC+1) on Wed 24 Apr 2024

Wight, Portland, Plymouth

North or northeast, backing northwest for a time, 3 to 5. Slight or moderate in Plymouth, but elsewhere smooth or slight. Occasional rain. Good, occasionally moderate.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 23/04/2024

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OYT Shakedown - Day 3

Sunday 24^th March 2024

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 45.26'N Long: 001° 31.67'W

0700 hrs

Climbed on deck to a stunning sunny morning. The plan for the day was to get Prolific back to Ocean Village for some 'tight space' manoeuvring for Constantinos and Andrew. While I was enjoying the sunshine on deck Andrew was out with his drone and taking some stunning shots of the boat on the pontoon.

Prolific alongside at Royal Lymington YC
© Andrew Wilkes 23/03/2024

Prolific alongside at Royal Lymington YC
© Andrew Wilkes 23/03/2024

0810 hrs

Slipped the lines and followed the ferry down the river. At the mouth of the marked channel the yacht club have a platform with a hut and small balcony on it, clearly used for racing, but I wondered if it is an AirBnB.

A gentle motor up the western Solent then as we turned into Southampton Water and head to wind we raised the main then one by one put all three reefs in checking that everything was running smoothly.

1100 hrs

Arrived Ocean Village and then started on the hard work of 'parking in tight spaces'. Thankfully, no bumps to either boats or pontoons.

1300 hrs

With all the practice done it was time to finally tie up, have lunch, prep the boat for handover. While several Sea Staff were staying onboard I headed home.

A very enjoyable few days working the boat with just Sea Staff allowing us to refresh our skills without a crew of young people and put the boat through its paces in heavy weather.

All times are UTC.

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The Numbers for Prolific

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	13.42	4h 50m	2.78	8.00	0h 00m
Trip:	71.25	17h 35m	3.93	12.00	0h 00m
Year:	71.25	17h 35m	3.93	12.00	0h 00m

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Crew: Constantinos (Skipper), James B, Josh, Andrew W, Tom K, Robert J, Sara A, Rooby, Juliette D and Sandy.

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Sunrise: 0542 hrs Sunset: 1931 hrs

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Weather: Forecast valid from: 00:00 (UTC) on Sun 24 Mar 2024 until 00:00 (UTC) on Mon 25 Mar 2024

Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth, North Biscay

Westerly or northwesterly 4 to 6, becoming variable 2 to 4 later, then becoming southerly 5 later in Plymouth. Moderate or rough, becoming slight or moderate later. Showers, then rain later in Plymouth. Good, becoming moderate later in Plymouth.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 24/03/2024

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OYT Shakedown - Day 2

Saturday 23^rd March 2024

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 45.62'N Long: 001° 17.60'W

0900 hrs

Slipped our lines at Sheppards and headed up river to the fuel barge that opened at 1000 hrs. On going up river I spotted a boat that I last saw in Scarborough back in 2021, and latter dropped them a message saying I had spotted them.

1000 hrs

Alongside the fuel barge Josh and Rooby tended the refuelling while the rest of the crew had a 'happy hour', boat cleaning.

1130 hrs

Fuelling complete. Thankfully, I was not paying, but wondered if they give Nectar Points.

As we entered the Solent we could see some very dark angry squalls to the west of us and waited until they had passed before raising the mizzen and the staysail.

In a matter of half an hour the day had changed from a pleasant spring morning to a cold and very wet day, but the squall soon passed and we got to work putting the boat through he paces making sure that she good for the start of the season.

After several hours of sailing to windward and lots of tacks it was decided to call into Lymington, not one of the usual ports of call on the Solent, for the night.

Prolific tacking in the Solent

1530 hrs

We dropped the anchor to the east of the channel into Lymington to wait for the tide. Sitting in 40 knots of wind with the rain lashing the boat watching it from 'the shed' was quite comfortable, in an open boat things would have been very wet.

1630 hrs

The weather had cleared and the anchor lifted before we followed the ferry into Lymington. Andrew being a member of Royal Lymington Yacht Club had arranged for us to tie up to their pontoon for the night.

1730 hrs

Lat: 50° 45.26'N Long: 001° 31.67'W

After a couple of practice parks, which attracted quite a large audience, we tied up alongside and Andrew left for his own boat. House rules state that you must fly a club pennant when alongside.

After supper we piled into the bar and enjoyed a few beers - I enjoyed the atmosphere in the club to the hurly burley of the pub in Cowes the previous evening. Several club members came over and asked about the boat and the charity.

Sounds like Prolific holds the record for the largest boat to come alongside.

All times are UTC.

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The Numbers for Prolific

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	23.25	6h 00m	3.87	10.00	0h 00m
Trip:	57.85	12h 45m	4.50	12.00	0h 00m
Year:	57.85	12h 45m	4.50	12.00	0h 00m

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Crew: Constantinos (Skipper), James B, Josh, Andrew W, Tom K, Robert J, Sara A, Rooby, Juliette D and Sandy.

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Sunrise: 0602 hrs Sunset: 1824 hrs

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Weather: Forecast valid from: 00:00 (UTC) on Sat 23 Mar 2024 until 00:00 (UTC) on Sun 24 Mar 2024.

Wight, Portland, Plymouth

West or northwest 5 to 7. Moderate or rough, becoming rough or very rough in west and south Plymouth. Squally showers. Good, occasionally moderate.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 23/03/2024

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OYT Shakedown - Day 1

Friday 22^nd March 2024

0000 hrs

Lat: 50° 53.71'N Long: 001° 23.50'W

There had been a call for volunteers for a Sea Staff only trip on Prolific before the start of the season to give the new skipper and first mate some practice parking the boat and to check out the rigging as both masts had been out over the winter. I thought it would be good to go along as it gave me some time on the boat before my first trip of the season.

I drove up on the day before and met up with most of the Sea Staff onboard the boat. Prolific was not on her usual mooring as all of the pontoons on the south side of Ocean Village were out of the water for dredging and I found her on the north side of the hotel.

0800 hrs

The remaining sea staff arrived and twenty minutes later the two riggers from Allspars turned up with their kit.

0930 hrs

Slipped the mooring at Ocean Village and headed out. By the time we joined Southampton Water the staysail, main and mizzen had all been hoisted for the riggers to complete their checks. Very quickly the jib followed, I've never seen all of the sails up so promptly.

We scuttled down Southampton water with the riggers looking intently at the rigging, feeling it with their hands and tightening it with massive spanners. Then much to my surprise climbed the rigging on the way back up Southampton water with 25 knots of apparent wind. Glad I don't do that for a living!

Rigger at work

1215 hrs

With the riggers work completed we dropped the sails and returned to Ocean Village. Dropped them off for their next job and had lunch.

1330 hrs

Lunch finished we set off again, but this time purely under engine for some 'pontoon bashing' at Trinity Landing in Cowes.

The next few hours were spent parking Prolific to the landing and much to my surprise I was invited to park the boat! With the Staff Skipper beside me I carefully manoeuvred the boat next to the pontoon and successfully brought her alongside without scratching the paintwork or bashing the pontoon.

Prolific alongside Trinity Landing, Cowes.

Prolific setting up for another park.

1730 hrs

Lat: 50° 45.62'N Long: 001° 17.60'W

Tied up along side at Sheppards Marina in Cowes.

Just after we tied up alongside Willoughby, one of the OYT Sea Staff, popped in to say hello.

Following supper we ajourned to The Anchor Inn to quench our thurst. A rather busy pub full of yachties.

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The Numbers for Prolific

	Distance NM	Underway	Avg SOG knots	Max SOG knots	Night Hours
Day:	34.60	6h 45m	5.12	12.00	0h 00m
Trip:	34.60	6h 45m	5.12	12.00	0h 00m
Year:	34.60	6h 45m	5.12	12.00	0h 00m

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Crew: Constantinos (Skipper), James B, Josh, Andrew W, Tom K, Robert J, Sara A, Rooby, Juliette D and Sandy.

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Sunrise: 0604 hrs Sunset: 1822 hrs

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Weather: Forecast valid from: 00:00 (UTC) on Fri 22 Mar 2024 until 00:00 (UTC) on Sat 23 Mar 2024.

Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth

Southwest veering northwest 4 to 6. Slight or moderate, occasionally rough in Plymouth. Occasional rain or drizzle. Moderate or good, occasionally poor.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 22/03/2024

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OYT Training Weekend - Day 2

Sunday 11^th February 2024

0930 hrs

Accident and Incident Avoidance and Management for Watchleaders and Bosuns
I was looking forward to this talk with great interest, but the talk was clearly mis-titled. The speaker had lots to say about things in general where I was looking for a more detailed look at issues with Prolific and the trust’s safety management system.

1400 hrs

Chart corrections, Life rafts and lifejackets, and a Safeguarding update
An afternoon made up of three sections, chart corrections and the new electronic way that the Hydrographic Office sends out chart updates.

A session on checking and packing lifejackets, and the demonstration of inflating a liferaft from Ocean Safety. It is always fun to see a liferaft inflate.

The final session was on Safeguarding and the changes that have happened over the last year.

2100 hrs

Arrived back in Devon. Drove the coast road, heavy traffic.

All times are UTC.

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Sunrise: 0725 hrs Sunset: 1731 hrs

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Weather: The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 23:30 (UTC) on Sat 10 Feb 2024 for the period 00:00 (UTC) on Sun 11 Feb 2024 to 00:00 (UTC) on Mon 12 Feb 2024 .

Dover, Wight

Cyclonic becoming west, 3 to 5, occasionally 6 in Wight. Slight or moderate, occasionally smooth in north Dover and rough in west Wight. Showers. Good, occasionally moderate

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 11/02/2024

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OYT Training Weekend - Day 1

Saturday 10^th February 2024

0500 hrs

Jumped in the car for the early morning drive to Gosport and the annual OYT training weekend. Always a good time to catch up with Sea Staff and get up to date with things. Thankfully, my First Aid at Sea was still in date so that was not my top proprity.

0830 hrs

Arrived at Gosport Cruising Club to sign in and start the day then spotted one of the Navy's aircraft carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08)

HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) at Portsmouth

0930 hrs

Introduction to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

One of many talks I have attended on the subject, but with particular emphasis on Refugees. Fascinating to hear somebody talk with real life experience and not what you read in the press.

1400 hrs

Mental Wellbeing

A mental health talk with a difference, how to look after yourself rather than what to look out for in others.

1900 hrs

Mark, the CEO, gave his summary of last year. His always a very engaging speaker and a joy to listen to.

Most people stayed for dinner and drinks at the bar where we caught up with each other's news, swapped stories and looked forward to the new sailing season.

All times are UTC.

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Sunrise: 0736 hrs Sunset: 1721 hrs

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Weather: The shipping forecast issued by the Met Office, on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, at 23:30 (UTC) on Fri 9 Feb 2024 for the period 00:00 (UTC) on Sat 10 Feb 2024 to 00:00 (UTC) on Sun 11 Feb 2024 .

Wight, Portland, Plymouth

Southwest 4 to 6, becoming cyclonic 5 to 7 later, occasionally gale 8 later in Plymouth. Moderate or rough, but slight or moderate in Wight, becoming very rough or high later in Plymouth. Showers. Good, occasionally moderate.

© Met Office Synoptic Chart 10/02/2024

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OYT MACS Trip Day 7: Brixham

Tuesday 8^th August 2023

0700 hrs

Everybody woke and had breakfast. Then a 'super happy hour', a really deep boat clean.

1000 hrs

The voyage wrap up talk and certificates handed out to all of the crew.

1100 hrs

The crew depart and the Sea Staff start Prolific's weekly and monthly checks. The new members of Sea Staff start to arrive and the current ones pack and get ready for departure.

1300 hrs

With the boat safely handed over to the new skipper and crew Andy B suggested we all head into Brixham for coffee and a cake. We found The Chart Room, this is a delightful Cunard themed coffee shop, turns out the owner used to be a steward on ocean going liners.

1430 hrs

Back on Prolific and we collect our kit and had a farwell hug before heading back home.

An amazing trip that left me very humble given the lack of vision that many of the crew had.

All times are UTC.

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