On the radiant morning of Saturday 24 May, the Port Owen Yacht Club commenced its annual closing cruise with an air of anticipation that hung delicately over the clubhouse and marina as, one by one, boats started brightening up with burgees, flags and even a few Jolly Rogers and pirates’ hats.
At the clubhouse members gathered, their laughter mingling with the aroma of freshly-brewed coffee and tea, complemented by an assortment of biscuits that beckoned like sirens to sailors. Ex-Commodore John Nosworthy presided over the skippers’ briefing, his voice a steady anchor amid the burgeoning excitement that rippled through the crowd. The sail past was momentarily delayed by low water levels in the marina; however, this minor inconvenience did little to dampen spirits.
Enthusiastic community members lined the shore, perched on balconies and jetties alike, eagerly awaiting their chance to witness a spectacle that would soon unfold on the shimmering waters of the Berg River. It was a magnificently calm and sunny day with promises of a light breeze picking up across the ocean a little later, just what the skippers ordered for a sail past with a bit of sailing in the Bay. More than 16 boats some gracefully sailing while motorboats powered along glided into view, a vibrant tableau emerged against nature’s canvas. The promised light breeze kept perfect timing as it started to dart around sails being hoisted one by one just at the right moment, and when the fleet exited the Laaiplek harbour mouth under cheer from spectators on the harbour wall and into the Bay.
As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, casting a golden hue over the waters, laughter and camaraderie filled the air, echoing around the clubhouse as members enjoyed the refreshing taste of a bottle of sparkling wine generously provided at a discount by Swartland Wineries to each skipper and crew, reflecting on another successful season of sailing adventures.
The day ended off with a festive gathering at the clubhouse for Cheese and Wine evening, where the kitchen “staff” (read fellow club members) and organising committee truly outdid themselves, presenting a magnificent display of various cheeses, cold meats and cracker platters adorned with fresh figs, dates, grapes and olives. For those whose bellies were not yet celebrating this mingle of delectable tastes, some very delicious creamy butternut soup was served to warm the spirits. The cherry on top was the selection of red and white wines from Swartland Wineries. The atmosphere buzzed with laughter and conversation as members savoured each bite and sip while reflecting on a successful sailing season filled with camaraderie and adventure.
The Port Owen Yacht Club thanks every person and sponsors who made this day so special.
