Dart Valley Cruiser Rally 17th - 19th July
Rally Poster
Downloads
Notes
This 3 day Meet is being staged upstream for those members who have not decided to go Foreign or coastal cruising out of range and is an opportunity to revisit and enjoy the richness of our own beautiful river valley. Apart from the organised events below there is plenty of scope for members to walk ashore and some may wish to explore further up the river. Depending on numbers evening meals can be arranged ashore or if volunteers come forward perhaps we can arrange a light Alfresco Supper Afloat. It is intended to establish a base camp on a large ship buoy at Dit'sum. Members may of course seek alternative moorings at Dit'sum or anchorages elsewhere in the river at their discretion.
Sharpham Vineyard
The visit will be timed to occur within a window 2 hours either side of HW 1350 and landing will be at the small North Quay in Fleet Mill Reach. Tides are on neaps and depth at the Quay in this time frame will be about 1m and 1.5m approx. Anchoring off (clear of the navigation channel) should pose no problem for shallow to average draught boats but some may choose to anchor in the pool south of Bow Creek or remain at Dit'sum. If required, the club's launch Bravo may be used as taxi from Dit'sum and to assist with landing at Sharpham. A "Trek and Taste" tour of the vineyard includes an instructed tasting in the winery for £5.00 per head. The vineyard has a shop and those with their own picnics may use the grassy quay.
Maypool
The Rally coincides with the 50th Anniversary celebrations of RDYC Junior Sailing This major club initiative promises to be a grand affair and Cruisers have been invited to join the festivities and Hog Roast on the Saturday between 1200 and 1500 on the lawn at Maypool by courtesy of our Vice President Jonathan Weekes. There will be a charge for food and wine of £12.50 for adults and £5.00 for juniors. Efforts are being made to have a pontoon in place off Maypool for dinghies and the Club's safety boat "Tango" will operate a free shuttle service for cruisers between Dit'sum and the beach at Maypool.
Greenway House
A visit is planned for Sunday Morning. (Admission £7.00 - free to National Trust members) This newly opened property was the holiday home of Agatha Christie. Filled with her personal belongings it has great atmosphere and is a must if you haven't been before.
Club Lunch
Sunday lunch will be available for members before they disperse. The annual passage race from Newton Ferrers may well arrive about then.