Finally, the wind came down to manageable levels overnight, so this morning I departed Hamford Water. Plan was to go into Harwich to get some stores, then head to the Deben tonight or tomorrow. However, as I motored up the approach to Harwich, the engine overheat alarm went. Quick investigation showed that the drive belt for the water pump and alternator had failed. Sail back out!

First plan was to sail up the Stour, which I thought would be easier for the wind angle (I was wrong), find a space in which to anchor, and change the belt. The tack up the Stour against the tide was hard work, but I did it and anchored successfully. Got the tools and spare belt out ... it doesn't fit. Since the alternator upgrade, I need a larger belt and hadn't changed it. Duh!

Consult pilot book. Looks like the best served marina that is easier to get into is Suffolk Yacht Harbour on the Orwell. Phoned them up, warning that I'd be coming in under sail singlehanded. No problem, as long as I was there by 5:30pm. Give them a call when I was about 20mins out.

So anchor up, sail with the wind down the Stour, tack up the Orwell but crucially now with the tide. Called the marina to give them warning. Sailed in as the wind decided that 6kts was boring, so lets gust up to 20kts. Grrrr!

Furled the jib as I entered the marina, and carried my way onto their fuel berth as instructed. In fact, carried rather too much of my way! But fortunately, the excellent staff were there in force - three of them. They grabbed the lines I threw, stopped her, and got me moored up with no drama. Can't thank them enough.

The mechanic on site doesn't have the right size in stock - Sod's Law is working overtime today - but should be able to get it by tomorrow. He'll fit it and investigate why it failed.

Log of this passage