Our fleet of 13 boats made their way to the RNSYC at Lowestoft over the weekend of the 22nd/23rd of June ready for departure. The forecast had been unusually stable over the proceeding days and was looking really good.
After a Sunday roast in the Yacht Club the crews had an early night full of anticipation (or apprehension for some) for Mondays North Sea crossing. All the preparations had been made with UK and Dutch immigration, boats full of provisions and full, and well serviced.
Monday morning dawned as forecast, bright and sunny with no wind. We got underway at 0800hrs for the 95-mile passage to Vlissingen, Netherlands and the lock on to the Walcheren Canal that would take us inland to Middleberg and beyond. The crossing was superb, almost flat calm, bright and warm. With few issues to deal with en-route we made the crossing in just over 5 hours.
Then all 13 boats into the lock with plenty of room to spare. There are 5 opening bridges between Vlissingen and Middleberg. Here the powers that be could learn a thing or two from the very efficient Dutch. The bridges operate on a timetable for North bound or South bound traffic and every couple of hours. All worked seamlessly and we were tied up in the Binnen Haven by 1700.
Once Dutch immigration had stamped our Passports, we were well ready for some safe arrival drinks. All into the Superyacht Club for a meal, sharing of experiences and a lot of laughs.
After a day’s relaxation in Middleberg we departed for Veere and began our Zeeland tour. Hot and sunny and lovely as the pictures depict. We visited Goes, Willemstad, Zierikzee and Kortgene before returning to Middleberg and departing via Breskens.
The weather deteriorated in our second week and although we had little rain the westerly winds were a little strong for a comfortable North Sea crossing. This is not unusual, and the crews had allowed for extra days, so we were able to spend two nights in some places where only one was planned.
The wait was worth it, and we departed on Monday the 8th of July with a light southerly breeze and residual swell which was subsiding after a windy weekend. We arrived back in Lowestoft at 1600hrs after a really super holiday.
James Fraser
Comments from our clients,
“Thank you James and Speedo, Sam, Paul, James Junior, Rob, Anthony as Support Team and everyone else. It’s been a brilliant couple of weeks. Myself and June really enjoyed everything about the cruise and especially the support and friendship of everyone. Take care everyone and hopefully see you all again soon. James, special thanks to you for organising these trips. You and the team at NYA are second to none. 🥇”
“Spot on David we agree. thanks James and team for a great trip x”
“Robin and I would like to echo all the above comments- it has been truly fantastic in every way! Special thanks go to the wonderful Speedo.”
“Morning all, we can only echo David’s comments above as we have had a ball over the past couple of weeks.
Many thanks to James and the NYA support crew who did a fantastic job at organising everything, to our amazing pal Jon who taught us a great deal and kept us on the right track, and to everyone there for their fun, laughter and friendship!
Stay safe and well until we meet again for a wee dram or two, Callum & Dawn 🥃🥃🥃”
“Thank you James and everyone helping me trough the last few weeks I appreciate it see you on the next cruise”
“Great time, great people. 🥰 Many thanks NYA for organising”
“Thank you James, Mark, Little James, Jude and Rob. Once again a wonderful three weeks. Great company, good food. Only a little drink. Much fun boating and exploring the Zeeland.
A little delayed but a great passage back for everyone too ❤️”
“Another fab trip! Great company as always and lots of great memories to look back on. Thank you to all at NYA!🤗”
