After a short passage the MBM fleet arrives in Brixham
Wednesday 20th July
Dawn broke and misty rain clouds had descended upon Dartmouth. With a midday radio call everyone had the morning to do some last minute exploring and stocking up on provisions, albeit in the heavy rain.
With a good forecast control RIB Time Flies departed Dartmouth at 11.30 ahead of the fleet. Despite the murky skies the sea conditions were excellent and Richard and Claire arrived in Brixham at 12.15. The rest of the fleet began departing slowly from 12.30 with Blue Fin departing last and sweeping up at the rear.
On the final approaches to Brixham crews reported seeing a small pod of dolphins. Silver Fox and Kittiwake relayed that there was 8 of them frolicking in their wakes for a short while and then they promptly disappeared back onto the deep.
The first of the boats arrived just after 1pm and the MBM cruise fleet were soon organised onto the empty Brixham Marina events pontoon. Like Dartmouth and Salcombe crews will spend another night with no electric nor direct access to water, however this time they have direct access to shore and have unlimited use of excellent shower facilities. The back to basics situation has certainly not been a problem for the mixed fleet, people with generators have shared, powering the essential items such as mobiles and laptops for their neighbours, bringing a sense of community.
Its RNLI week in Brixham and the MBM boats had a ringside seat for the on-the-water programme taking place in the harbour. Holiday makers and locals flocked to the quayside to watch a navy parachute display and several lifeboat demonstrations.
Tomorrow, weather permitting the fleet will make the 50-mile passage across Lyme Bay to Weymouth where they will spend two nights.
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