We booked to have Fandancer's masts removed at 0830, but they double booked us so we had a bit of hanging about to do, as the guys in the boat before us hadnt done any preparation. But it was still 2 hours before low tide, so we had plenty of time. The cost for having both masts lifted was 85euro for one hour, which we thought very reasonable, compared to what we has previously paid in the UK, but here they do expect you to do everything yourself, except operate the crane!
We had already loosened the bottle screws, electrics etc the previous evening, and constructed the 3 wooden mast supports on deck. Tim had previously climbed to the top of the mast to undo the triatic stay and remove the anemometer, so we were all set to go. The mast lift went very well, although the mainmast is huge and overhangs the boat by about 6ft at both the bow and stern.
We motored back to out berth in the marina close by, and started to tie up all the rigging etc, secure the masts firmly onto their supports and protect the delicate lights, wiring, aerial etc.
Later, I went sur ma bicyclette to the local supermarche, which went by the curious name of Le Mutant. It was a bit disappointing, basically just a Lidl, they had no fresh bread or milk, but I did find some delicious cheese!
We have decided to spend another day in Rouen tomorrow to do some more exploring, and leave here on Wednesday.