Another first in the annals of the received Dublin Bay Twentyone Footer class was established on Sunday 17 August when the fleet joined the Water Wag class and a couple of other wooden boats for a sail to Dalkey Island, and after anchoring safely in the sound were ferried to the Island for a Picnic.
22 Sailors were available on the day with 4 boats setting off, Oola being left behind. A rib skippered by this author accompanied the fleet to provide general support and in particular ferry services. With a south easterly breeze, the four boats tacked their way up to Dalkey sound on the last of the ebb tide chasing the Water Wag fleet who had commenced a race to Dalkey at 10.30.
Geraldine, skippered by Hal, took the lead in anchoring and chose a spot to NW of Lamb Island which is the one of the larger rocky outcrops just off the main Island. Naneen and Garavogue followed suit to anchor immediately adjacent while Estelle chose to drop the hook abeam of the Island slipway. This was the first time using the anchor for most Sailors and, in good conditions, all boats achieved secure holding first time.
The Island was busy with the large contingent of Water Wags and their accompanying flotilla of support boats, as well as the regular Sunday visitors arriving via Kens Ferry from Coliemore Harbour. Being one of the best days of the year with light winds and glorious sunshine various parties chose their respective picnic spots with the Wags and Twenty Oners choosing adjacent rock promontories a little up from the church on the route to the Martello tower.
Some took the opportunity to explore the island and to their delight came across the herd of Island goats which included a kid only a few weeks old. Many of the Sailors had never been on the island before - even some who grew up overlooking it!
As the last of the ferried crew arrived on the Island the picnic proper was set up and some delightful treats including exotic “Oasis Muffins “, Maderia cake and delicious Lemon Drizzle cake were shared around. There was also some wine on hand but alas the miracle of the feast of Canna was denied to the Island visitors on this occasion and was therefore reserved for only a few. Better planning next time!
All too soon it was time to depart, and the ferry service recommenced, always making sure that the official Island Ferry had right of way. Naneen led the way home with Garavogue. Geraldine and Estelle in her wake, arriving back at the moorings around 3pm before repairing to the NYC for some post picnic analysis.
A great event combining sailing, anchoring, arriving at a new destination and a picnic to boot - all in glorious weather – such day’s dreams are made of…..
To be repeated!
