Teignmouth is sometimes described as the hidden Gem of South Devon. But Skippers’ often give it a miss as a port of call due to the need to navigate a narrow channel with sand bars either side at its entrance to the harbour.
Combined with unsettled weather conditions and forecasts that were far from reality 4 Motor Cruisers, Whisper, Yolo, Oyster and Cosmic Dancer plus 1 yacht, Quintet, made their way from Torquay on Friday 18th July, to Teignmouth for 2 nights on the allocated Visitors Pontoon near the back beach. It was a smooth crossing with wind and tide in our favour.
Harbour personnel were on standby to assist us but all boats had no trouble berthing at slack water. Those who were the wiser berthed on the shoreside of the pontoon to be gently blown off and avoid the wake of larger vessels passing in the main channel.
Friday evening started with pre-dinner drinks at Teign Corinthian Yacht Club who fully welcomed us as visiting yachtsmen. A small clubhouse with excellent views out to sea. Then we were off to a tasty Indian Restaurant, the Naz, where we were flavoured with a delightful choice of menu at a reasonable cost.
Saturday gave opportunity for those wanting to explore some rich maritime history and a traditional seaside town to experience. Then in the late afternoon a grand Garden BBQ was organised by Gordon & Carol Bentley who live in Teignmouth that went into the night with music, dancing and much fun and joviality, not forgetting Head Chef, Martin Godfrey, leading the way with his al-la-carte BBQ ’ed seafood specialities. Scallops and Tiger prawns marinated in white wine and garlic paste. Yummy !
Cruising together is as much about enjoying being on the water as it is about socialising with like-minded people. It also gives those who lack confidence or experience the opportunity to have support from other boats to do what they might not want to do on their own when cruising.
This was proven on our Sunday’s return to Torquay. A southerly F4/F5 wind and a heavy swell led to a departure nearly three hours before High Water to avoid wind over tide after high water. The motor cruisers had no problems exiting the harbour, but the only yacht , Quintet, with a 1.6m daft scrapped out with less than 60 cms to clear. But we were all listening on VHF Channel 6 in case anyone needed help or assistance.
Back in Torquay safely, we all reflected positively about the weekend and the amazing time we had together, plus the need to further explore next year the hidden gem of Teignmouth.
Gordon Bentley – RTYC Membership Secretary
