Fenced off by the secretive swiss banker |
We make our way down the muddy lane, past the Flowerpot Inn
and down to the River Thames’ edge where we are met by Skipper Derek and his
first officer Sarah J Robert.
A walk through the fields of Remenham (not far from Henley)
and through Hambledon Lock, then we see Cantara of Dart moored up and ready for
the off. The skipper welcomes us aboard. No morning coffee rather a morning
glass of IPA from the Marlow Brewery.
The dogs play on the path close to the land fenced off by
some secret Swiss financier who is busily sequestering every acre hereabouts.
Towards Henley Bridge |
Casting off we motor gently upstream past Temple Island
towards Henley.
Sun now high and hot; dogs pant in the shade offered by the
seating on the upper deck.
Henley soon to be awash with hundreds boats and crews for
the Henley Regatta, this is an essential part of the English social season.
Marquees are already being erected to house corporate guests and champagne.
The suspect Vouvray we brought is opened consumed and then
charged for loitering with intent to ruin a palette.
Under Henley Bridge upstream further to Wargrave. The women disappear down to the Galley, only
to emerge moments later with confections of cheeses, patés, charcuterie, pies
and other steals from Waitrose.
Part of the Regatta's 1 mile 550 yard course |
Our passage through the locks, Marsh and Shiplake was not
impaired by lunch. Eventually skipper brought her hard to port and we headed
back downstream.
Henley now bathed in afternoon sun. A saucy Sauvignon (to be
served at an important wedding soon to take place) was tested and not found
wanting. Towards Temple Island Regatta
people were hard at work driving in the piles and posts that mark the Regatta’s
one mile and five hundred and fifty yard course.
We moored up and made our good-byes.
I slept rather soundly
that night; doubtless due to all that fresh air.