Part 3

We thought about calling the coastguard but didn't. With a sailing boat you still have propulsion using sails so it would not be considered an emergency.

 Up with the mainsail. We were feeling a lot better by then.  When we got far enough into the bay to get some shelter I checked the fuel gauge - empty.

In theory we had enough diesel at the start of our trip to motor all the way from Brest to La Coruna if needs be. Those estimates need a rethink! 

I had a 10 litre can of diesel in the locker. Left by the previous owner - good idea Tim - so put it in the tank and the engine started. Thank God. 

Alison's hands were still freezing. I came across some woollen fishermans socks on top of my clothes locker. Presenting them to Alison, she was over the moon. Lovely and warm doubled over, as long as they don't  get wet, and they didn't now that we were heading inland.

 The wind was against us so motored for an hour on the high tide. Then the tide changed, our 6 knts went down to 3. According to my ( more realistic now ) calculations we wouldn't have enough fuel to reach the marina. 

Tacking against the tide was slow, slow, but progress was being made and we got in some good sail practice.

The hours ticked by.

 With 12 nm to go, back on with the engine. We hoisted the cone day shape, to signify motorsailing, as it was safe to go on deck and the French are apparently a stickler for the rules. You wouldn't think so observing their attitude to everything else mind you.

 It's a very long way to the Marina du Chateau from the open sea.
Approaching the marina entrance ( on fumes probably ) an outgoing sailor was criss crossing in front of the entrance while putting his mainsail up single handed. Sacre Bluer!

If I could have sounded our horn without having to faf on with the VHF handset I would of given him the five loud beeps signal. This sends the message - What are your intentions! - or to my mind - What the F are you doing!

Filled with diesel, moored, collapsed !!!