33nm – 6hrs

Leaving Portland I filled up on fuel, said my goodbyes and made my way out the harbour. It’s a big harbour and it took a little while, so I sorted all my lines and fenders. The forecast was for 18 Gusting 25 knots so I was a little apprehensive when I saw a white horse. But once my sails were up and I’d turned away from the wind everything settled and I was doing 7 knots and began surfing down waves.

I altered course to starboard to avoid the Ludworth firing range and time seemed to fly by. It wasn’t long til I’d rounded the headland and could see Old Harry’s rock. They were stunning and super recognisable, it felt odd. I’d finally reached a point I’d sailed to before, back in familiar territory. For some reason, it felt like a milestone. The white cliffs and the land around me are so different from back home that I can begin to see just how far away I’m getting. For most of my journey, it’s been the Cornish and Devon coastline which is practically interchangeable with the Pembrokeshire coast.

I arrived in Poole Quay Yacht Haven around 4pm, I got one of the best spots right by the Reception. It was cool to be in the centre of town and once the boat was sorted I went for a walk into town. I stopped by the post office and sent a postcard home. It’s kinda old fashioned but I love it.

Interestingly my boat Pink Delta was moored here back in 1982!

Being here feels like the next chapter of my voyage. Soon I’m heading into the Solent, I’m planning to go into Gosport, Cowes and just spend a bit of time there. It’s sort of the centre of the world for sailing and I’m gonna make the most of it.