PRECIOUS FETTLE

is moored stern in, port side-on to our pontoon berth E13 in Poole. Despite the unlucky connotations of the number, she has suited and served us very well over the last three years. With the aft cockpit facing almost due west, many a glass of rosé has been drunk with friends watching the sun sink down behind Brownsea Island and the Purbeck Hills. When the wind is conforming to its prevailing direction, I find it quite comfortable reversing into our slot using short bursts from the single stern-drive and just the odd blip of bow thruster to push the pointy end neatly onto the pontoon. Our immediate neighbour, a mighty imposing Windy Khamsin