Another day of cruising past peaceful countryside settings. A farmhouse or two, and an old lock now used as a small pleasure craft marina. Surprise of surpises, a black swan! Did he fly in from Oz? Small islands lyingmid river, were obstacles to be avoided. Highlight of the day was our three hour visit to Tournus, […]

With the pressure on to reach Germany, the decision to leave exploring the old part of Lyon until 2017 was made. Motoring out of the township was most pleasurable as we passed a juxtaposition of old and new. An imposing abbey stood tall upon the aged ramparts whilst in the lower walls tunnels led who […]

After three and a bit very pleasant relaxing days, we were on our way up the Rhone once more. Levels had continued falling thank goodness. Our initial plan had been that of motoring the short distance to Givors, where a new water heater (it hadn’t rained but hailed, when various items gave up the ghost […]

A pair of white swans have their abode within the marina. This afternoon, espying Bob working on deck, they visited Gratis in search of a meal.   Damsel flies and fluorescent greens and blues lazed upon the mooring lines, whilst small birds twittered merrily away.

Clear skies, on we forged. Past castles: it was possible to trace the length of the outer protective walls on this one. Yachts, barges and tourist liners kept us busy. The swans: couldn’t believe the numbers we saw! The steam from nuclear power stations towered into the skies. People at work. A wave or two, […]

Winds predicted yesterday arvo 10kn (20km). In actuality 40kn (80km) and continual. Winds predicted today 15kn (60km), Bob’s guess is this will mean gusts from 50 – 60kn (100-120km). Departure tomorrow instead. A day of rest at last!

With no desire to deal with the possibility of damaging furlers, as happened last year, and to provide greater ease of outdoor helming, we made the decision to remove and store the mast, furlers, sails etc. This morning saw us motoring around to Port Napoleon where the mast and so forth were removed and placed in […]