[{"content":"","date":"19 Mar 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/posts/","section":"Posts","summary":"","title":"Posts","type":"posts"},{"content":"","date":"19 Mar 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/tags/racing/","section":"Tags","summary":"","title":"Racing","type":"tags"},{"content":"","date":"19 Mar 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/","section":"Sailing Lucy","summary":"","title":"Sailing Lucy","type":"page"},{"content":" Silverrudder 2026 – Lucy auf der Höhe von Nyborg Chasing the Silverrudder: One Sailor’s Solo Voyage around Fyn # By the time September 2025 arrived, I had been dreaming of this moment for years – a single-handed circumnavigation of Fyn in the famous Silverrudder Regatta. It sounded deceptively simple: 134 nautical miles around a Danish island in the Baltic, alone and without a stop. But anyone who sails knows what that really means: at least thirty hours at sea, at the mercy of wind, current, and your own endurance.\nI had tried to enter the Silverrudder before, always without success. Each year, four hundred skippers vie for a spot, and within minutes the entry list is full. Yet this March, against all odds, I finally managed to secure a place.\nExcitement gave way to doubt soon enough. Could I really do it? Was Lucy, my 1979 Contessa 32, fit for the challenge? My solo run in the smaller “Double Rundt” regatta helped build confidence, and conversations with seasoned Silverrudder veterans proved invaluable. Most importantly, I resolved to set some limits, especially to define in advance how long I would sail non-stop before fatigue or risk crept in.\nTwo days before the start, I reached Svendborg after a brisk, blustery crossing. It’s a thrill unlike any other—entering a harbour brimming exclusively with sleek racing yachts. Volunteers waved me in with warm smiles, guiding me to my berth. Not all 427 boats had arrived yet, but the docks already hummed with quiet anticipation.\nWhat I love most about this regatta is the spirit of camaraderie. Help is never far away. I even heard of the race committee organising tows for grounded boats on the far side of the island. There’s an honesty and friendliness here that settles the nerves and reminds you: we might be competing, but we’re also in this together.\nIn my class “Medium” boats between 30 and 35 feet line up. Many are purpose-built racers. Mine isn’t. But the forecast promised 15 to 20 knots, perfect weather for a Contessa 32. I felt quietly hopeful.\nAt dawn, I positioned Lucy near the back of the fleet. The Svendborg Sound is narrow, its shallows notorious. Still, the start went smoothly. Gusts tore down from the Storebælt, snapping sails and testing patience. I watched one or two boats spin out in broaches while I pressed on steadily, proud of my little ship.\nAs the Storebælt Bridge loomed: a dark silhouette against late afternoon light. I hesitated to hoist the Code Zero. Something about that concrete giant overhead made me pause. In truth, there was clearance to spare. But at that moment, instinct said no.\nBy evening, the sun dropped low along Fyn’s northeast coast. I hardened up, sailing close-hauled as darkness crept in. North of the island, near Middelfart, the current grew mischievous. The old Lillebælt Bridge, how infamous it is if motoring is not an option. Two knots of adverse current, barely a breath of wind. It felt as if an unseen hand had seized Lucy by the stern just as I was to cross the bridge. I laughed out loud, half in disbelief, half surrender.\nFor four long hours, I advanced half a mile, only to drift back again, dodging the bridge piers. Two more hours at anchor, then at last, a sliver of breeze. Gradually, the sails filled; 20 knots of wind and sunshine returned. Lucy came alive again. I trimmed, tacked, and felt joy return with every mile. The first twenty-four hours had passed.\nSouth of Fyn, the wind turned spiteful—gusty, twisting, laced with rain. The course beckoned for a spinnaker, but I resisted because of the gusting wind and the light beginning to fade. The narrow channel swarmed with other yachts, ghosts flitting through shifting veils of drizzle. It was strangely serene, almost eerie.\nFinally, the familiar waters of Svendborg Sound came into view. The tide ran hard against me, two knots strong. My arms ached, and the thought of another bridge with head current and exhaustion closing in solidified my decision. I had reached my time limit. I struck the sails and motored the last miles home.\nMooring up again, fatigue washed over me—alongside a quiet, satisfied pride. I hadn’t crossed the finish line, but I had sailed far, learned more than expected, and discovered a deeper respect for both sea and self. The race had ended – the adventure continues.\nRoute # 🗺️ Loading map... 🗺️ Route Selection nm📈 Profile All None 📍 Focus Comparison Comfortina 32 vs Contessa 32 # Timings # Lucy Contessa 32 # Ort Time Leg time Leg SOG Leg Top speed Distance Thurø 11:53:30 1h 8m 36s 3,9 6,6 4,1 Knudshøved 15:16:18 3h 7m 42s 5,8 7,5 18 Fynshøved 19:22:22 4h 6m 3s 5,3 6,8 21,9 Æbelø 22:41:00 3h 18m 37s 4,8 5,9 16,0 Strib 02:43:51 4h 2m 50s 4,4 6,3 17,7 Ny Lillebæltsbro 03:44:36 1h 0m 45s 3,2 4,4 3,3 Hindsgavl 10:40:42 6h 56m 5s 0,9 4,0 6,4 Helnæs 17:04:12 6h 23m 29s 4,9 7,9 31,1 Svelmø 20:03:44 2h 59m 32s 4,8 7,3 14,4 Finish DNF DNF DNF DNF DNF Comfortina 32 Livly # Ort Time Leg time Leg SOG Leg Top speed Distance Thurø 12:08:36 0h 53m 30s 4,6 8,5 4,4 Knudshøved 14:22:32 2h 29m 2s 7,2 8,4 17,8 Fynshøved 17:23:46 3h 1m 14s 7,1 8,4 21,6 Æbelø 20:04:00 2h 40m 13s 5,9 7,0 15,9 Strib 23:43:30 3h 39m 30s 5,3 6,6 19,2 Ny Lillebæltsbro 00:12:55 0h 29m 24s 5,4 6,3 2,7 Hindsgavl 00:48:28 0h 35m 33s 4,4 6,3 2,6 Helnæs 04:03:14 7h 42m 25s 4,6 6,1 35,5 Svelmø 11:43:01 3h 12m 6s 5,0 7,2 16,1 Finish 14:17:04 2h 24m 3s 4,4 7,2 11,3 Boat data # Comfortina 32 vs Contessa 32\nMerkmal Comfortina 32 Contessa 32 Designer Ingemar Boding David Sadler Werft / Hersteller Comfortbåtar AB Rogers (UK) / Taylor (Canada) Baujahre / Produktionszeitraum 1982–1998 ab 1971 (mehrere Jahre) Anzahl gebaut 860 ca. 700 Rumpf‑ / Kieltyp Fin mit Spatenruder Fin mit Ruder an Skeg Rig / Takelung Fractional Sloop Masthead Sloop LOA (Länge über alles) [m] 9,50 9,75 LWL (Wasserlinienlänge) [m] 7,49 7,32 Breite (Beam) [m] 3,27 2,90 Tiefgang (max) [m] 1,70 1,68 Verdrängung (Displacement) [kg] 4491 4309 Ballast [kg] 1846 2041 Segelfläche (gesamt) [m²] 45,06 40,23 I (Masthöhe Vorstag) [m] 11,43 12,41 J (Basis Vorstag) [m] 3,55 3,87 P (Hauptmast Länge) [m] 12,60 10,67 E (Großsegel Fußlänge) [m] 3,95 3,05 Segelfläche Vorsegel (100 % J) [m²] 20,29 24,01 Segelfläche Großsegel [m²] 24,89 16,26 S.A. / Displ. (Verhältnis) 16,89 15,50 Ballast / Displ. (Verhältnis) [%] 41,11 47,37 Displ. / Länge (D/L) 297,61 306,79 Hull Speed (Rumpfgeschw.) [kn] 6,64 6,56 Motor / Leistung (ursprünglich) Volvo Penta 2002 / 18 PS Diesel 24 PS Tank (Kraftstoff) [L] 57 35 Wassertank [L] 76 60 ","date":"19 Mar 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/posts/silverrudder-2025/","section":"Posts","summary":" Silverrudder 2026 – Lucy auf der Höhe von Nyborg Chasing the Silverrudder: One Sailor’s Solo Voyage around Fyn # By the time September 2025 arrived, I had been dreaming of this moment for years – a single-handed circumnavigation of Fyn in the famous Silverrudder Regatta. It sounded deceptively simple: 134 nautical miles around a Danish island in the Baltic, alone and without a stop. But anyone who sails knows what that really means: at least thirty hours at sea, at the mercy of wind, current, and your own endurance.\n","title":"Silverrudder 2025","type":"posts"},{"content":"","date":"19 Mar 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/tags/","section":"Tags","summary":"","title":"Tags","type":"tags"},{"content":" What it is about # This race is all about spirited, seamanlike sailing across the English Channel in style and forging new friendships along the way. Most of the yachts and crews are likely to hail from the UK and France, giving the whole event a distinctly Anglo-French flavour. And … Lucy is one of the pre-registered boats! Have a look for yourself at https://www.classic-channel-regatta.eu\nPre-registered boats (thirteen Co32s!) # At the moment there are 112 pre-registered yachts, which is a terrific turnout. It is particularly exciting to see that thirteen of these are Contessa 32s!\nThese are the pre-registered Contessa 32s:\nBeguine Coric Ella Firefly L’Aquarelle Liamar Lucy Peregrine Ripple of Kyle Tantris Teela Trican Wild Thyme See all pre-registered boats\nProgramme # Location Date Time Event Dartmouth 2026-07-07 12.00–18.00 Registration at Royal Dart Yacht Club Dartmouth 2026-07-07 14.00 “Watersports” in Dartmouth off Dartmouth Yacht Club Dartmouth 2026-07-07 18.30 Welcome reception at the RDYC Dartmouth 2026-07-07 19.00 Briefing for Dartmouth Classics Races at RDYC Dartmouth 2026-07-07 20.00 Crew suppers available at RDYC Dartmouth 2026-07-08 08.00–10.00 Late registration at RDYC Dartmouth 2026-07-08 10.30 Parade of Sail Dartmouth 2026-07-08 12.00 First Start Dartmouth Classics Races Dartmouth 2026-07-08 19.00 for 19.30 Evening crew supper party with music in the Old Market Square Dartmouth 2026-07-08 23.00 Supper Party finishes Dartmouth 2026-07-09 10.00 Dartmouth Classics Start Bay Race - First Start Dartmouth 2026-07-09 17.30 Dartmouth Classics Prizegiving sponsored by Dartmouth Gin Dartmouth 2026-07-09 18.00 BBQ supper at RDYC Dartmouth 2026-07-10 09.00–09.30 Late registration for the Classic Channel Race Dartmouth 2026-07-10 10.00 Briefing for the Classic Channel Race Dartmouth – St Peter Port Dartmouth 2026-07-10 13.00 First start of the Classic Channel Race Dartmouth – St Peter Port St Peter Port 2026-07-11 morning Boats arrive at St Peter Port during the morning St Peter Port 2026-07-11 17.30 Safety Briefing Classic St Peter Port – Lézardrieux Race St Peter Port 2026-07-11 18.00 Welcome Reception at Castle Cornet sponsored by States of Guernsey St Peter Port 2026-07-12 08.30 First Start for Classic St Peter Port – Lézardrieux Race Lézardrieux 2026-07-12 afternoon/evening Race finishes to south or west of Île de Brehat; Late arrival Lézardrieux–Paimpol 2026-07-13 - Cruise in company from Lézardrieux to Paimpol incl. «Danse de Classiques Daniel Hue» Off Île de Bréhat 2026-07-13 - Picnic anchored off Île de Bréhat Paimpol 2026-07-13 early evening Early evening parade into Paimpol Harbour Paimpol 2026-07-14 - Rest day with the regatta fleet in port at the centre of Fête Nationale festivities Paimpol 2026-07-14 - Prizegiving for the Classic Channel Race \u0026amp; St Peter Port to Lézardrieux Race Paimpol 2026-07-14 evevning Evening fireworks Um Île de Bréhat 2026-07-15 10.00 Classic Tour de Île de Bréhat race – first start Paimpol 2026-07-15 evening Evening return to Paimpol Paimpol 2026-07-16 - Blindfold dinghy racing Paimpol 2026-07-16 - Prizegiving Paimpol 2026-07-16 - Closing supper party in the Salle de Fétes Route # 🗺️ Loading map... 🗺️ Route Selection nm📈 Profile All None 📍 Focus ","date":"7 Feb 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/posts/classic-channel-2026/","section":"Posts","summary":"What it is about # This race is all about spirited, seamanlike sailing across the English Channel in style and forging new friendships along the way. Most of the yachts and crews are likely to hail from the UK and France, giving the whole event a distinctly Anglo-French flavour. And … Lucy is one of the pre-registered boats! Have a look for yourself at https://www.classic-channel-regatta.eu\n","title":"Classic Channel Regatta 2026","type":"posts"},{"content":"","date":"29 Jan 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/series/england-2026/","section":"Series","summary":"","title":"England 2026","type":"series"},{"content":"","date":"29 Jan 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/england-2026/","section":"England-2026s","summary":"","title":"England-2026s","type":"england-2026"},{"content":" It’s nearly time # From June 2026 I have three months free and can go sailing for that period. I am very much looking forward to being away for so long, meeting new people and discovering new places. It is still some way off, but time is moving on. It is still the end of January and it is bitterly cold outside, so the voyage feels a long way away for now.\nSome things are already fixed, others are not yet. That will follow in due course.\nThe legs planned so far are each about 14 days long. There is the delivery passage, the cruising, and the regattas, each with a different character.\nFor the delivery passage Hamburg–Lymington, I would rather sail longer stretches and would like one or two more people on board. It goes via Heligoland, some Dutch ports, and Dover to Lymington, right in the Solent.\nFor the Cruising Channel, I would prefer shorter legs and longer stays on the Channel Islands such as Guernsey and Sark.\nThe Co32 Regatta is a weekend event with several races and, hopefully, many other Contessa 32 crews from England and perhaps the Netherlands. I would be happy to sail it in a more competitive spirit and get the best out of the boat. It should be a very pleasant event with a friendly social programme.\nThe Channel Regatta should be an interesting one. Relaxed, but still spirited sailing across the Channel, with several races along the French coast and strong tide. English and French sailors work together, so it should be rather lively.\nThe legs are listed under Planning.\nOverview # The route runs west from Hamburg into the Solent and then further west: the West Country, perhaps the Isles of Scilly, perhaps the Channel Islands such as Guernsey and Sark.\nThe start and end of my 2026 sailing leave are fixed: departure is in early June, and by the end of August I want to be back home in Hamburg. Whether Lucy will be back in Hamburg too, or remain in England, is still open, which is why the options below exist.\nOn the outward and return passages I would like to sail some longer legs of more than 60 nm, so we will be underway overnight at times. We sail in tidal waters, so it is best to take advantage of the tide and make sure there is enough water under the keel.\nI am looking for a friendly atmosphere on board. I would like to get to know the country and the people in England and France, and also to sail some regattas. Those will be more spirited, but always relaxed.\nSome regattas are definitely part of the plan:\nThe Co32 Regatta. It coincides with the “60 Years of Contessa 32” event, although what exactly will happen there is still unclear. The Classic Channel Regatta is attractive, but unfortunately overlaps in timing with the Round the Island (RTI) Regatta. At present, the better choice seems to be the Channel Regatta. And naturally there should be some cruising time as well, to get to know the places and people and to take a break now and then.\nProvisional plan # Legend:\n🤔: number of crew needed. 👍: number already confirmed. Crew: who is on board (+ Karsten). Crew change: possible here, and perhaps elsewhere too. For a rough voyage plan, Rome2Rio is quite useful. Leg Datum Ort 🤔 👍 Crew Notizen 2026-05-31 Hamburg Farewell Party Hamburg-Lymington 2026-06-01 Hamburg 2 1 P Start Hamburg-Lymington: Elbe, Nordsee, Solent 2026-06-15 Lymington Crew change Cruising-Channel 2026-06-15 Lymington 1-2 1 Start Cruising Channel 2026-06-25 Yarmouth Crew change Co32-Regatta 2026-06-26 Yarmouth 2-3 1 Start Co32 Regatta 2026-06-28 Yarmouth 2-3 1 End Co32 Regatta 2026-07-05 Dartmouth 2-3 Crew change Channel-Regatta 2026-07-06 Dartmouth 2-3 2 R Crew change: Start Classic Channel Regatta 2026-07-16 Paimpol 2-3 2 R Ende Classic Channel Regatta Paimpol-Plymouth 2026-07-18 Plymouth 2-3 2 R Arrival Plymouth 2026-07-19 Plymouth Crew change Cruising-WestCountry 2026-07-19 Plymouth 2 2 B Start Cruising WestCountry 2026-08-16 Southampton Crew change Southampton-Hamburg 2026-08-17 Southampton 2-3 ? Return to Hamburg (if Lucy returns to Hamburg) 2026-08-27 Hamburg 2-3 ? Arrival in Hamburg (if Lucy returns to Hamburg) Map of the English Channel # Regattas # Classic Channel Regatta # requires self-measured sails and a self-issued certificate\nThree inshore races at Dartmouth Classics; two passage races across the Channel: the Classic Channel Race from Dartmouth to St Peter Port and the passage race from St Peter Port to Lézardrieux.\nClassic Channel Regatta\nCo32 Regatta # Co32 Regatta requires a class certificate\nNotes # Deacons Marina # Where George Solent Boat Butler might keep an eye on Lucy from August until the following year.\nDeacons Marina Broad route # See here\nYachtmaster Offshore requirements # Sea miles \u0026amp; days: 50 days at sea, including 5 days as skipper. 2,500 nautical miles, including at least 1,250 nm in tidal waters. 5 passages over 60 nm, including 2 as skipper and 2 with night sailing. Route # 🗺️ Loading map... 🗺️ Route Selection nm📈 Profile All None 📍 Focus ","date":"29 Jan 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/england-2026/itinerary/","section":"England-2026s","summary":"It’s nearly time # From June 2026 I have three months free and can go sailing for that period. I am very much looking forward to being away for so long, meeting new people and discovering new places. It is still some way off, but time is moving on. It is still the end of January and it is bitterly cold outside, so the voyage feels a long way away for now.\n","title":"Route England 2026","type":"england-2026"},{"content":"","date":"29 Jan 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/series/","section":"Series","summary":"","title":"Series","type":"series"},{"content":"Yeah, it\u0026rsquo;s regatta from 7 to 16 July 😎\nThe course of the Classic Channel Regatta 2026 runs from Dartmouth in the UK via St Peter Port in Guernsey and Lézardrieux in Brittany to Paimpol in Brittany, with races in between and a final circuit round Île de Bréhat.\nCourse description # The regatta starts with two race days off Dartmouth, followed by a crossing to St Peter Port. After that comes a race to Lézardrieux, a sail to Paimpol, and it finishes with the race round Île de Bréhat. The course covers about 150 nautical miles across the Channel.\nLocation Date Time Event Dartmouth 2026-07-07 1200–1800 Registration at Royal Dart Yacht Club Dartmouth 2026-07-07 1400 “Watersports” off Dartmouth Yacht Club Dartmouth 2026-07-07 1830 Welcome reception at the RDYC Dartmouth 2026-07-07 1900 Briefing for Dartmouth Classics races at RDYC Dartmouth 2026-07-07 2000 Crew suppers available at RDYC Dartmouth 2026-07-08 0800–1000 Late registration at RDYC Dartmouth 2026-07-08 1030 Parade of Sail Dartmouth 2026-07-08 1200 First start of the Dartmouth Classics races Dartmouth 2026-07-08 1900 for 1930 Evening crew supper party with music in Old Market Square Dartmouth 2026-07-08 2300 Supper party finishes Dartmouth 2026-07-09 1000 Dartmouth Classics Start Bay Race, first start Dartmouth 2026-07-09 1730 Dartmouth Classics prizegiving sponsored by Dartmouth Gin Dartmouth 2026-07-09 1800 BBQ supper at RDYC Dartmouth 2026-07-10 0900–0930 Late registration for the Classic Channel Race Dartmouth 2026-07-10 1000 Briefing for the Classic Channel Race, Dartmouth to St Peter Port Dartmouth 2026-07-10 1300 First start of the Classic Channel Race, Dartmouth to St Peter Port St Peter Port 2026-07-11 morning Boats arrive at St Peter Port during the morning St Peter Port 2026-07-11 1730 Safety briefing for the Classic St Peter Port to Lézardrieux Race St Peter Port 2026-07-11 1800 Welcome reception at Castle Cornet, sponsored by the States of Guernsey St Peter Port 2026-07-12 0830 First start for the Classic St Peter Port to Lézardrieux Race Lézardrieux 2026-07-12 afternoon/evening Race finishes south or west of Île de Bréhat; late arrival Lézardrieux–Paimpol 2026-07-13 - Cruise in company from Lézardrieux to Paimpol, including «Danse de Classiques Daniel Hue» Off Île de Bréhat 2026-07-13 - Picnic anchored off Île de Bréhat Paimpol 2026-07-13 early evening Early evening parade into Paimpol Harbour Paimpol 2026-07-14 - Rest day with the regatta fleet in port, in the centre of the Fête Nationale festivities Paimpol 2026-07-14 - Prizegiving for the Classic Channel Race and the St Peter Port to Lézardrieux Race Paimpol 2026-07-14 evening Evening fireworks Off Île de Bréhat 2026-07-15 1000 Classic Tour de Île de Bréhat race, first start Paimpol 2026-07-15 evening Evening return to Paimpol Paimpol 2026-07-16 - Blindfold dinghy racing Paimpol 2026-07-16 - Prizegiving Paimpol 2026-07-16 - Closing supper party in the Salle de Fêtes Navigation notes from Reeds # Plan for neap tide for weaker streams, which are at most 2–3 kn in the channels. Reeds warns of strong tides around Guernsey and Brittany, with an anticlockwise ebb/flood rotation. Dartmouth to St Peter Port is about 110 nm.\nClassic Channel Regatta JCH Rating Certificate Lucy Route # Only for overview \u0026hellip;\nPoint Place Coordinates (approx.) Features 1 Dartmouth, UK 50°35\u0026rsquo;N 3.58°W Start, race in Start Bay 2 St Peter Port, Guernsey 49.46°N 2.44°W First leg, rest day 3 Lézardrieux, France 48.79°N 3.14°W Second leg 4 Paimpol, France 48.78°N 3.04°W Final, Bastille Day 🗺️ Loading map... 🗺️ Route Selection nm📈 Profile All None 📍 Focus ","date":"24 Jan 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/england-2026/legs/classic-channel/","section":"England-2026s","summary":"Yeah, it’s regatta from 7 to 16 July 😎\nThe course of the Classic Channel Regatta 2026 runs from Dartmouth in the UK via St Peter Port in Guernsey and Lézardrieux in Brittany to Paimpol in Brittany, with races in between and a final circuit round Île de Bréhat.\nCourse description # The regatta starts with two race days off Dartmouth, followed by a crossing to St Peter Port. After that comes a race to Lézardrieux, a sail to Paimpol, and it finishes with the race round Île de Bréhat. The course covers about 150 nautical miles across the Channel.\n","title":"Leg: Classic Channel","type":"england-2026"},{"content":" Location Date Time Event Yarmouth 2026-06-26 1200 Arrival in Harbor Yarmouth 2026-06-26 1700 - 1800 Registration at Royal Solent Yacht Club Yarmouth 2026-06-27 1000 Start Contessa 32 Inshore Series 2 Yarmouth 2026-06-28 0930 Start Contessa 32 Inshore Series 2 Yarmouth 2026-06-28 after 1. race Start 2. race Contessa 32 Inshore Series 2 RSYC Contessa Regatta 2026 Notice of Race ","date":"24 Jan 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/england-2026/legs/co32-regatta/","section":"England-2026s","summary":" Location Date Time Event Yarmouth 2026-06-26 1200 Arrival in Harbor Yarmouth 2026-06-26 1700 - 1800 Registration at Royal Solent Yacht Club Yarmouth 2026-06-27 1000 Start Contessa 32 Inshore Series 2 Yarmouth 2026-06-28 0930 Start Contessa 32 Inshore Series 2 Yarmouth 2026-06-28 after 1. race Start 2. race Contessa 32 Inshore Series 2 RSYC Contessa Regatta 2026 Notice of Race ","title":"Leg: Co32 Regatta","type":"england-2026"},{"content":" Location Date Time Event Lymington 2026-06-15 – Arrival in Harbor ? ? – Yarmouth 2026-06-26 1200 Arrival in Harbor ","date":"24 Jan 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/england-2026/legs/cruising-channel/","section":"England-2026s","summary":" Location Date Time Event Lymington 2026-06-15 – Arrival in Harbor ? ? – Yarmouth 2026-06-26 1200 Arrival in Harbor ","title":"Leg: Cruising Channel","type":"england-2026"},{"content":"Ask me later 😎\n","date":"24 Jan 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/england-2026/legs/west-country/","section":"England-2026s","summary":"Ask me later 😎\n","title":"Leg: Cruising West Country","type":"england-2026"},{"content":" Overview # Between Hamburg and Lymington there are at least 470 nm. In practice, it will probably be about 30% more, so roughly 600 nm. That is quite feasible in 10–14 days, with a few longer legs of more than 60 nm on the cards.\nSome passages will run into the night, or begin before dawn so that arrival is in daylight. After night passages, a rest day is planned. During the legs, the crew can keep watches and sleep in rotation.\nThe ports named here are the preferred staging ports; other or additional stops are possible.\nPorts by distance from Hamburg # The ports are listed in ascending order of nautical-mile distance from Hamburg, based on distance tables in the Reeds Marine Distance Tables. Hamburg itself is 0 nm. Brunsbüttel lies downstream on the Elbe. Heligoland is about 45 nm to the north-west, and Borkum about 165 nm. The remaining distances follow the standard Reeds tables for North Sea routes. Reeds Marine Distance Tables states that its figures are based on the shortest or most usual routes, taking shipping lanes into account. api.pageplace\nPort Distance (nm) Hamburg 0 Brunsbüttel 37 Heligoland 88 Borkum 170 Terschelling 220 Scheveningen 240 IJmuiden 270 Ostend 380 Dover 500 Newhaven 480 Brighton 470 Lymington 650 Passage plan # No. From → To Alternate ports Great-circle distance (nm) Duration at 4.5 kn 0 Hamburg → Brunsbüttel Cuxhaven (35 nm) 38 8.4 h 1 Brunsbüttel → Heligoland Wilhelmshaven (50 nm) 47 10.4 h 2 Heligoland → Borkum Wangerooge (30 nm) 56 12.4 h 3 Borkum → IJmuiden Norderney (20 nm) 80 17.8 h 4 IJmuiden → Ostend Den Helder (40 nm) 100 22.2 h 5 Ostend → Dover Zeebrugge (10 nm) 70 15.6 h 6 Dover → Brighton Ramsgate (15 nm) 52 11.6 h 7 Brighton → Lymington Newhaven (10 nm), Eastbourne (5 nm) 70 15.6 h This passage plan is for a three-person crew aboard the Contessa 32 Lucy, with a draught of 1.65 m, and a start on 1 June 2026. The distances shown are great-circle figures from the Reeds nautical distance tables. At a mean speed of 4.5 kn, the schedule remains realistic, and the whole passage comes in at roughly 650 nm. Reeds Marine Distance Tables confirms the use of nautical-mile distances and the shortest or usual routes. api.pageplace\nWeather allowance # A typical allowance for tide, wind and sea state is 30% on top of the Reeds distances, which gives an effective sailing distance of about 600 nm. As a rule of thumb, this reflects the extra ground that can be lost to adverse conditions, particularly in the North Sea. For example, a Hamburg–Heligoland leg of 45 nm becomes about 58 nm in practice.\nRoute # 🗺️ Loading map... 🗺️ Route Selection nm📈 Profile All None 📍 Focus ","date":"24 Jan 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/england-2026/legs/hamburg-lymington/","section":"England-2026s","summary":"Overview # Between Hamburg and Lymington there are at least 470 nm. In practice, it will probably be about 30% more, so roughly 600 nm. That is quite feasible in 10–14 days, with a few longer legs of more than 60 nm on the cards.\nSome passages will run into the night, or begin before dawn so that arrival is in daylight. After night passages, a rest day is planned. During the legs, the crew can keep watches and sleep in rotation.\n","title":"Leg: Hamburg - Lymington","type":"england-2026"},{"content":"Ask me later 😎\n","date":"24 Jan 2026","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/england-2026/legs/southampton-hamburg/","section":"England-2026s","summary":"Ask me later 😎\n","title":"Leg: Southampton - Hamburg","type":"england-2026"},{"content":"A Co32 battle flag was recently spotted flying the evening before the Double Rundt race, where a sailor completed the 32-nautical-mile course solo.\nWhile the race is typically double-handed, the sailor onboard \u0026ldquo;Lucy\u0026rdquo; navigated the course alone. Photos taken in Langballigau Harbour after the race show the Co32 battle flag displayed on the boat.\n\u0026ldquo;It was pretty breezy, and with the No2 genoa and full main, I had a bit too much sail up,\u0026rdquo; the commented Karsten. \u0026ldquo;But Lucy kept me safe, and I finished in good time.\u0026rdquo; Good to see.\nPublished here: co32.org\nPrevious Next ","date":"24 Jul 2025","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/posts/double-rundt-2025/","section":"Posts","summary":"A Co32 battle flag was recently spotted flying the evening before the Double Rundt race, where a sailor completed the 32-nautical-mile course solo.\nWhile the race is typically double-handed, the sailor onboard “Lucy” navigated the course alone. Photos taken in Langballigau Harbour after the race show the Co32 battle flag displayed on the boat.\n“It was pretty breezy, and with the No2 genoa and full main, I had a bit too much sail up,” the commented Karsten. “But Lucy kept me safe, and I finished in good time.” Good to see.\n","title":"Double Rundt 2025","type":"posts"},{"content":"","date":"15 Jul 2025","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/tags/boat/","section":"Tags","summary":"","title":"Boat","type":"tags"},{"content":" Call me via DSC with MMSI 211796970 Follow Lucy on Noforeignland or see all Contessa Yachts Lucy on PredictWind GPS Tracking: Have a look at the AIS position from Marinetraffic: ","date":"15 Jul 2025","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/position/","section":"Sailing Lucy","summary":" Call me via DSC with MMSI 211796970 Follow Lucy on Noforeignland or see all Contessa Yachts Lucy on PredictWind GPS Tracking: Have a look at the AIS position from Marinetraffic: ","title":"Lucy's Position","type":"page"},{"content":"Sailing boats are meant to be driven by the force of the wind. Still the use of engines, mostly diesel engines is hard to avoid. And let\u0026rsquo;s be honest: Smoke of diesel engines is often seen on sailing vessels. Most of it can be avoided by adjusting the motor, make sure you do this. What cannot be easily avoided is burning of fuel and emission of carbon dioxide. My point I want to make here is: use HVO fuel to reduce Carbom Emissions and smoke as well.\nBy the way, a common misconception is to let the engine warm up while idling. Actualy this make things worse – more cold wear on the engine and more environental impact. So make sure to put the the engine into gear and run it at low revs while it is cold but avoid idling at all.\nI always try to minimize my envitonmental impact. I enjoy pristine nature a lot and want to avoid destroying or expoliting nature. Electrical propulsion seemed a good way to avoid the smoke and minimize environmental impact. Interestingly a study have proven this wrong. It is possibly overly simplified, there are other aspects taken into account. The conclusion is you can reduce environmental impact a lot and reduce smoke at the same time simply by using \u0026ldquo;Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil\u0026rdquo; (HVO) diesel. For detailed insights have a look at the ICOMIA study. For a critical discussion of the study see Yachting monthly - The true carbon cost of sailing.\nI think that\u0026rsquo;s great news: you can have less Diesel bug, less smell and less environmental impact by using HVO fuel. You only have to find a HVO Gas station. Here is a HVO Gas station map\n","date":"27 May 2025","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/posts/co2-emission/","section":"Posts","summary":"Sailing boats are meant to be driven by the force of the wind. Still the use of engines, mostly diesel engines is hard to avoid. And let’s be honest: Smoke of diesel engines is often seen on sailing vessels. Most of it can be avoided by adjusting the motor, make sure you do this. What cannot be easily avoided is burning of fuel and emission of carbon dioxide. My point I want to make here is: use HVO fuel to reduce Carbom Emissions and smoke as well.\n","title":"Carbon Emissions – why going electric could be less green than you think","type":"posts"},{"content":"","date":"27 May 2025","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/tags/environment/","section":"Tags","summary":"","title":"Environment","type":"tags"},{"content":"You want your battery wiring as simple and robust as it gets. For many people it is like some black magic to do battery wiring and George came to the rescue 😉\nGeorge explained the essentials very well - what elements you need and how to connect them. See for yourself in the youtube video below. George introduced a wiring scheme which I converted to a drawing.\nFor the original scheme see image above. And this is the diagram style scheme: Wiring diameters: 35mm for the battery cables, 6mm for the charger and 10mm for the B2B.\nIf you like to modify the diagram just open the file in draw.io or download it here\nWatch \u0026ldquo;Raceboat Refit - Battery Upgrade \u0026amp; Supporting Mods- Step-By-Step\u0026rdquo; below and subscribe here for the cracking RefitandSail Channel of George Isted\n","date":"13 May 2025","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/posts/wiring/","section":"Posts","summary":"You want your battery wiring as simple and robust as it gets. For many people it is like some black magic to do battery wiring and George came to the rescue 😉\nGeorge explained the essentials very well - what elements you need and how to connect them. See for yourself in the youtube video below. George introduced a wiring scheme which I converted to a drawing.\nFor the original scheme see image above. And this is the diagram style scheme: ","title":"Battery Wiring","type":"posts"},{"content":"","date":"7 May 2025","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/tags/co32/","section":"Tags","summary":"","title":"Co32","type":"tags"},{"content":"→ Lucy\u0026rsquo;s position\nContessa 32 \u0026lsquo;Lucy\u0026rsquo; – A Sailing Yacht with Charm and Tradition # The Contessa 32, designed by David Sadler and built by Jeremy Rogers Ltd, strikes a balance between classic long keel boats and modern fin keel boats. Its semi-long keel with skeg design, inspired by the Contessa 26, offers efficient upwind performance and exceptional seaworthiness. The Contessa 32, renowned for its stability and practical interior layout, is a popular choice for sailors prioritizing comfort and performance at sea.\nIf it looks right, it possibly is right\nLucy on the water (Double Rundt Regatta 2024) The Contessa 32 – A Legendary Design # The Contessa 32 was designed in the 1960s by the British designer David Sadler and built by Jeremy Rogers Ltd. It is distinguished by its sturdy construction and excellent sailing characteristics, making it ideal for both regattas and long, leisurely passages on the open sea. Measuring 9.75 metres in length and 2.50 metres in beam, it is a popular mid-sized yacht, admired for its stable hull shape and longevity.\nMore information about the Contessa 32 and its history can be found at Contessa 32 New Build, the official website of Jeremy Rogers Limited.\nThe Contessa 32 is a true masterpiece of engineering, offering safety and speed at sea. Its strong hull makes it perfect for rougher waters and ensures reliable performance even under challenging conditions.\nJeremy Rogers sailing Calypso\nLucy – A Sailing Yacht with a History # Lucy is a particularly well-maintained Contessa 32 that has undertaken many voyages along the coasts of Western Europe. The name \u0026ldquo;Lucy\u0026rdquo; (the shining, the radiant) has a pleasant ring and represents the strength of the boat. It also recalls one of the oldest human skeletons, whose name in turn links to the song \u0026ldquo;Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds\u0026rdquo; by the Beatles. Like many other Contessa 32s, Lucy has her own unique character and stands for freedom, passion, and love of sailing.\nLucy boasts an exceptionally well-kept interior. Her deck and rigging are in pristine condition, and she is equipped with modern navigation systems without losing the traditional charm of a classic yacht.\nThe Equipment of the Contessa 32 \u0026lsquo;Lucy\u0026rsquo; # Upon descending below deck, she immediately evokes the ambiance of a classic marine interior. The galley, situated on the port side, is compact yet functional when heeled. The chart table on the starboard side is appropriately sized to accommodate a standard paper chart. Additionally, the saloon berths are generously spacious and comfortable, even for individuals of tall stature. While she lacks excessive beam, this does result in slightly reduced space under deck. However, ample storage is provided, and every nook and cranny is meticulously designed.\nShe is beautiful to look at on the water and cozy and practical below deck. Sailors will find a combination of traditional style and practical features:\nClassic teak interior: Lucy’s cabin is lined with fine teak wood, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Fully equipped galley: A well-appointed galley with stove, sink, and fridge ensures that longer trips are comfortable and enjoyable. Comfortable bunks: The berths accommodate four people and also make longer passages a relaxing experience. Two berths amidships, a pilot berth, and the forepeak can accommodate up to six people; longer trips are comfortable for three people. Modern navigation systems: Despite her classic character, Lucy is fitted with a modern navigation system providing precise and reliable information at sea. Sails and rigging: The sails are in good condition, and the rigging is regularly maintained to guarantee maximum safety and performance. Breakfast on Lucy JCH Certificate for Lucy\nContessa 32 Specifications # LOA: 9.75m (32’0\u0026rsquo;\u0026rsquo;) LWL: 7.32m (24’0\u0026rsquo;') Beam: 2.90m (9’6\u0026rsquo;') Draft: 1.68m (5’6\u0026rsquo;') Displacement: 4309 kg (9500 lb) Lead Ballast: 2042 kg (4500 lb) Ballast Ratio: 47% Sail Area: 52 m2 AVS (Angle of vanishing stability): 156° Contessa Sail Plan At Sea with the Contessa 32 \u0026lsquo;Lucy\u0026rsquo; # Whether on a leisurely cruise along the coast or an exciting regatta, the Lucy offers both comfort and excellent performance on the water. Her stiff hull ensures a pleasant ride in all weather, while the precise steering and good manoeuvrability make her a pleasure for any sailor.\nThe Contessa 32 is renowned for handling well in strong winds and rough seas. Over the years, Lucy has mastered many such conditions, proving she can cope with every challenge the sea presents.\nView this post on Instagram Stability \u0026amp; Heel Angle # From a design perspective, the AVS of the Contessa 32 is interesting.\nThe angle of vanishing stability (AVS) indicates the heel angle up to which a boat will still right itself; beyond that, stability becomes negative and the boat tends to capsize. An AVS of 120° or more is generally considered a sign that a boat is significantly more seaworthy, because it will right itself from a larger angle. The Contessa 32 has an AVS of 157° (!), so it is especially seaworthy.\nYachting Monthly (April 2015) had an instructive article by Nigel Calder \u0026amp; Chris Beeson explaining AVS. They compared the Contessa 32 to the Bavaria 32. The article notes, „Even with her mast 66 degrees below horizontal, the Contessa 32 still rights herself.“\nYachting Monthly April 2015: ” Understand your boat and her statistics” by Nigel Calder \u0026amp; Chris Beeson\nConclusion – A Classic That Still Inspires # The Contessa 32, and especially Lucy, is a sailing yacht perfectly suited to me because I appreciate the combination of tradition, comfort, and excellent sailing qualities. With her classic design, sturdy construction, and unique atmosphere inside, she is a true masterpiece of yacht building.\nWhether for ambitious sailors or lovers of classic yachts, Lucy offers everything one could wish for in a sailing yacht. Anyone looking for a boat that impresses both at sea and in harbour will certainly not be disappointed with the Contessa 32 Lucy.\nFurther details on the Contessa 32 can also be found in the Yachting Monthly Contessa32 Review.\nSee also Contessa 32 New Build\nContessa 32 Test from Yachting World, May 1996\nPretty Tough: the Contessa 32 at 50\n","date":"7 May 2025","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/boat/","section":"Sailing Lucy","summary":"→ Lucy’s position\nContessa 32 ‘Lucy’ – A Sailing Yacht with Charm and Tradition # The Contessa 32, designed by David Sadler and built by Jeremy Rogers Ltd, strikes a balance between classic long keel boats and modern fin keel boats. Its semi-long keel with skeg design, inspired by the Contessa 26, offers efficient upwind performance and exceptional seaworthiness. The Contessa 32, renowned for its stability and practical interior layout, is a popular choice for sailors prioritizing comfort and performance at sea.\n","title":"Lucy","type":"page"},{"content":" What I Love About Sailing # Being immersed in Nature: Sailing allows you to spend time outdoors, experience nature up close, and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.\nEscape and Relaxation: Sailing offers a break from everyday life, stress, and hustle. It creates space for calm, silence, and the feeling of escaping the daily grind to clear your mind.\nCommunity and Togetherness: Everyone on board works together, strengthening the sense of community. Spending time with family and friends on a boat is especially valuable as you share a common goal and enjoy meaningful conversations.\nPeace and Meditation: The gliding of the boat, the sound of the wind and waves create a meditative atmosphere that relaxes both body and mind, thinking about nothing or everything at once.\nTradition and History: Sailing is an ancient tradition that connects people with the history and origins of seafaring.\nView this post on Instagram ","date":"7 May 2025","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/sailing/","section":"Sailing Lucy","summary":" What I Love About Sailing # Being immersed in Nature: Sailing allows you to spend time outdoors, experience nature up close, and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.\nEscape and Relaxation: Sailing offers a break from everyday life, stress, and hustle. It creates space for calm, silence, and the feeling of escaping the daily grind to clear your mind.\n","title":"Sailing","type":"page"},{"content":"","date":"7 May 2019","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/tags/elbe/","section":"Tags","summary":"","title":"Elbe","type":"tags"},{"content":"Elbe means tide. So sailing goes with the current, ideally adapted to the tide 😉\nLucy’s home port is Hamburg. Hamburg lies on the Elbe and sailing begins right outside the harbour entrance. In my case, the entrance to the Rüschkanal harbour at Finkenwerder.\nThe Elbe is a tidal area; the current does not always flow downstream as in all rivers but, thanks to the flood tide, sometimes flows upstream. To have fun and make progress, one generally follows the tide. It sets the rhythm and the timings for departure and arrival.\nView of the Elbphilharmonie\nRüschkanal Harbour\nYou will find a quiet Guest berth at Rüschkanal to spend the night where you can provide their boats with fresh water and electricity. See Guest Information\nEvening atmosphere at Övelgönne\nSee also Sailing on the Elbe is great … but not for me\n","date":"7 May 2019","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/posts/elbe/","section":"Posts","summary":"Elbe means tide. So sailing goes with the current, ideally adapted to the tide 😉\nLucy’s home port is Hamburg. Hamburg lies on the Elbe and sailing begins right outside the harbour entrance. In my case, the entrance to the Rüschkanal harbour at Finkenwerder.\nThe Elbe is a tidal area; the current does not always flow downstream as in all rivers but, thanks to the flood tide, sometimes flows upstream. To have fun and make progress, one generally follows the tide. It sets the rhythm and the timings for departure and arrival.\n","title":"Sailing on River Elbe","type":"posts"},{"content":"","date":"20 Apr 2018","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/tags/cruising/","section":"Tags","summary":"","title":"Cruising","type":"tags"},{"content":"Lucy was built in England and was launched for the first time in Lymington on 7 March 1979. I also purchased Lucy in England. Robin Milledge was a great help to me during the purchase, and I can highly recommend him as a surveyor! See Rozel Marine.\nAt Hayling Island, the yard Hayling Yacht Company carried out a refit. Structural issues were addressed and the engine was overhauled.\nWinter in the Boat Shed # I undertook some of the work myself and visited the yard several times. The yard is beautifully situated. Working in the cold boat shed was no pleasure. Most boats in England are kept outside over winter, so I was glad to be able to work indoors.\nSplash day # Then the time came: Lucy was launched and moved towards Hamburg.\nPrevious Next Lucy launched at Hayling Island, Red Diesel on board\nThe voyage from Hayling Island to Delfzijl, followed by a two-week pause, then onwards to Hamburg. See the 570 nm track from Hayling Island to Hamburg\nStaande Mastroute, Leeuwarden Route: Previous Next 🗺️ Loading map... 🗺️ Route Selection nm📈 Profile All None 📍 Focus ","date":"20 Apr 2018","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/posts/delivery/","section":"Posts","summary":"Lucy was built in England and was launched for the first time in Lymington on 7 March 1979. I also purchased Lucy in England. Robin Milledge was a great help to me during the purchase, and I can highly recommend him as a surveyor! See Rozel Marine.\nAt Hayling Island, the yard Hayling Yacht Company carried out a refit. Structural issues were addressed and the engine was overhauled.\nWinter in the Boat Shed # I undertook some of the work myself and visited the yard several times. The yard is beautifully situated. Working in the cold boat shed was no pleasure. Most boats in England are kept outside over winter, so I was glad to be able to work indoors.\n","title":"Delivery from Hayling Island","type":"posts"},{"content":"","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/authors/","section":"Authors","summary":"","title":"Authors","type":"authors"},{"content":"","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/categories/","section":"Categories","summary":"","title":"Categories","type":"categories"},{"content":"","externalUrl":null,"permalink":"/en/topics/","section":"Topics","summary":"","title":"Topics","type":"topics"}]