Got back on monday from a lovely time learning to sail this schooner. Crew of 6. 3 days sailing three miles off shore around the essex coast. Raising the sails using blocks , heaving the anchor up on a winch.
Weather was good , sea sate slight winds on average 9-11 knots.Got the chance to be at the helm and sail her into Harwich sunday evening.Got a little cold sunday afternoon and had to go below deck and wrap up in sleeping bag a duvet and hot water bottle. Forgot how fast you can get mild hyperthermia if your not wrapped up. Saw a thames barge coming into Harwich monday with ABP on the sail, think this was Associated British ports vessel.
Great to sail just using the wind. Recommend this to anyone who is interested in traditional sailing vessels.