Alouette

'Alouette' lies to her anchor in Warbarrow Bay, June 2006

'Alouette' is a cutter-rigged Frances 26 owned by Mike and Diane Carter. They are members of the Castle Cove Sailing Club, on the north shore of Portland Harbour, and it is here that you will usually find 'Alouette' on one of the Club's swinging moorings.

'Alouette' under full sail

Mike and Diane have owned her for several seasons now, but some of you may remember her when Percy and Pat Ashton, members of our Association for many years, used to sail her from Brightlingsea on the East Coast.

Although Mike and Diane love their Dorset coast, they frequently venture that bit further.

On this occasion, 'Alouette' was the very first boat to arrive at Shepards Wharf for the 2006 Rally to Cowes.

Her bows and foredeck are visible in the foreground of this picture with a Victoria 30 and another Frances 26 beyond.

After sailing 'Alouette' for three seasons, we are more than happy to be the proud owners of such a delightful little boat. The Frances sails well and, with such a cosy open plan cabin, is perfect for longer spells of living aboard.

Many years ago an old sailing pal of mine in Jersey, who owned many lovely yachts, once said to me, "You need to buy a boat that is so pretty you feel that you need to sail around waving at everyone." Well, we have done a lot of waving!!!

Studland Bay at sunset on an earlier voyage

 

Diane and Mike may be contacted by e-mail at    diane@samson2003.fsworld.co.uk