The final day of this leg would see Ashanti, Clearlake II and their crews set sail for Royal Quays marina in North Shields where Rob, the skipper of Ashanti, lived whilst a cadet in the merchant navy. With the weather holding up our yachts in Lowestoft, a night in Hartlepool had to be sacrificed in order to make it in time.

The weather was the best it has been so far, with beautiful clear skies and crystal waters a great setting for the final push. Keeping a keen eye open for lobster pots, which can snarl a propeller easily if ran over, our crews were treated to sightings of gannets, puffins, seals and even the odd porpoise came out to play! It is treats like these that remind everyone of the absolute joy that can be taken from being on the water, and this glorious Saturday was no exception.

Our crews were booked in for dinner at The Lock cafe in Royal Quays, and so needed to arrive in plenty of time to scrub up for their well earned celebration of their achievement. Many had never undertaken such a trip as this week before, and had faced challenges that they have never encountered before, and would take away a whole new view of sailing, as well as new skills and new friends.

If you wish to support our crews on their voyage, and help Macmillan Cancer Support continue their vital work with those affected by cancer, please follow this link to our justgiving page:

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/premier-sailing

Thank you.