But to counter the folk tales of bad luck, we need to do this properly, and with good cheer and karma!
So 13 of my new friends gathered at dusk (4 pm in the UK), along with 5 bottles of Moet Chardon, to perform 3 short ceremonies to:
Dename the "Farragon"
Oh mighty Poseidon, ruler of the Seas and Oceans, to whom all ships and we who venture upon your vast domain are required to pay homage, implore you in your graciousness, to expunge for all time from your records and recollection, the name "Farragon", which has ceased to be an entity in your kingdom. As proof thereof, we submit this ingot bearing her name, to be corrupted through your powers and forever be purged from the sea-
John, the full time previous captain, didn't want to see the
British Registry plaque go over the side, but he is a good sport!
In grateful acknowledgement of your munificence and dispensation, we offer these libations to your majesty and your court!
"To the Farragon"
Rename the Proper Yacht
Oh mighty Poseidon, great ruler of the Seas and Oceans, to whom all ships and we who venture upon your vast domain are required to pay homage, implore you in your graciousness, to take unto your records and recollection this worthy vessel, hereafter and for all time known as "No Regrets", guarding her with your mighty arm and trident, and ensuring her of safe and rapid passage throughout her journeys within your realm-
In appreciation of your munificence, dispensation and in honor of your greatness, we offer these libations to your majesty and your court!
Toasts To The Wind Gods
Great Boreas, exalted ruler of the North Wind... (We threw a flute of champagne into the north sky), grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your mighty breath!
Oh mighty rulers of the winds, through whose power our frail vessels traverse the wild and faceless deep, we implore you to grant this worthy vessel, "No Regrets", the benefits and pleasures of your bounty, ensuring us of your gentle ministration according to our needs!
Great Zephyrus, exalter ruler of the West Wind, Great Eurus of the East Wind and Great Notus of the the South Wind also received due homage and champagne, along with the crew.
Cheers!
Now we can fly the ensign-
And apply the new name!
One month remains until we cast off the lines from this British home on the Hamble River by Southampton. A short sail to Portsmouth, to visit the Naval Museum and the Victory, Nelson's flagship at Trafalgar, and then off to Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight. This will make the English Channel crossing to Cherbourg France, the shortest distance and doable in one day at 68 nm.
Our plan is to then drop down to Guernsey, in the Channel Islands, to get the VAT taxes refunded and to take on about 1,000 gals of diesel fuel. The good news is that this is the least expensive fuel available in Europe, and it should last until the Baltic, next summer.
Then up the Seine River to Paris for about 6 weeks. If I'm going to be cold at 51 degrees north latitude in the mid-winter, might as well be in Paris!
Excited and a little scared, but feeling more confident and competent every day. I love and miss you all!
Cheers!
