Weekend Breaks On a Barge
Weekend Breaks On a Barge
Weekend Breaks On a Barge
Probably one of the most tranquil ways to enjoy a weekend break is to sail away from it all exploring the East Coast on a traditional sailing barge.
A great idea for a family get together or a circle of colleagues, The sailing barge Reminder provide 12 people the chance to get away from the commotion of everyday life and venture calmly along the river beneath a canopy of beautiful brown sails.
The weekend break starts off on Friday evening at Maldon's historic Hythe Quay, home to many different sailing barges and yachts. Enjoy a pint in the Queens Head public house whilst you start to wind down, before you take supper aboard or head out to one of the many eating places in the Maldon High Street.
On the morning tide, the barge slips her mooring ropes and your trip starts - heading off down river past Northea and Osea Islands, past Mersea Island widely recognized for its Oysters and to the mouth of the River Blackwater at Bradwell, where you catch sight of the 9th century St Peters Chapel on the sea wall.
The island of West Mersea, reached by a causeway that floods on a high tide, is divided into 2 distinct settlements. West Mersea is the inhabited end, with all the village shops and Millionares Row (very smart houses overlooking the river)shops and smart houses overlooking the river. Several fascinating houseboats line the shore side before you reach the fish and shellfish restaurants and riverside pubs, including the "Company Shed".
East Mersea is much more rural, Cudmore Grove Country Park is worth a visit - with wonderful views over the Estuary. It also features a tiny stony seashore where you can swim at virtually any state of the tide - possibly unique in Essex.
When beyond Bradwell, Reminder goes into the River Colne at Brightlingsea. Typically she will anchor off East Mersea and run the small boat ashore for a walk, swimming or even a game of football or cricket. You may go to the jetty at Brightlingsea and head into town relax with a pint in the local bar. Brightlingsea was at its prime during Victorian times, and has always had a reputation for producing fine seafarers. Lots of the Victorian and Edwardian Classic Yachts (including a J-class) were skippered by Brightlingsea men, frequently local smacksmen who spent their winters fishing under sail in the North Sea.
Furthermore, Siling Barge Reminder heads up the River Colne, one of the quietest rivers on the East Coast, and ties up at the enchanting riverside village of Wivenhoe sometimes for the night, or for a couple of hours in order to stretch your legs.
Wivenhoe is a charming village with an active artistic and intellectual community. It is worthwhile walking around the waterside and into the village with its jumble of old houses.
On Sunday you head back for Maldon, joining the weekend yachtsmen, perhaps spotting a seal or porpoise in the deeper seas off Bradwell and ensure you are on deck along with your camera as you head up to the Quay, and get one of the best shots of the lower town.
Aboard there is absolutely no TV, no radio and in most cases a bad phone signal, so entertainment is of the traditional kind - books, chatting and playing cards. Guests can get involved in sailing as little or as much as they wish, the emphasis being on experiencing and enjoying the serenity of moving under sail, the scenery and great company.
Every cruise comes cruises with 2 sailing crew and you can decide to self-cater or use a chef on board.
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