Captain's Log
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New Season 2010
Wednesday 24th March 2010
So we are approaching the end of the yard period and are about to leave Tommi Nielsen’s in Gloucester for the start of our sailing season. The crew and I are excited about the challenges that face us. Not least the journey down the river to Cardiff. I look about the boat and I can see many changes from when I first laid eyes on her. The cover was taken off a couple of weeks ago and with fresh varnish in many areas and a lot of shinning brass she is really looking good.
We had an open day last Sunday to show case the work done here at T Nielsen’s, with all of the boats from the winter work period dressed over all and in their best looking conditions the yard looked fantastic. Halcyon had what felt like hundreds of visitors and at one point we almost started a “one in – one out” policy such was the interest we received. Perhaps though 
Amanda’s wonderful canapés and Simon serving bucks fizz helped entice some guests from the other boats. I had the privilege of meeting several “old boys” from Halcyons past many of whom are Master Mariners and talking of the trips that they have enjoyed on her. With this in mind I look forward to meeting more of them as we progress around the country this season.
As ever with a yard period coming to an end there are lots of little jobs to tick off but with the help of the marvellous crew here at Nielsen’s we will set off on Friday down the canal to Sharpness where we will sit over night to catch the tide out of the river on Saturday morning. Tommi has kindly agreed to come with us to pilot us through the shallows at the head of the river and through the bridges. And with a bit of Luck Rob, the former captain, will also join us for the trip down the river until Monday. I will be getting some wonderful help from both of them on how to handle Halcyon.
And so we move on to the up-coming season. With trips to Ireland already planned and a visit to the Royal Cork Yacht Club happening in May the season is filling fast. We look forward to greeting you on board and to visiting some fantastic places with Halcyon. Keep your eyes to sea and wave if you see us.
Tom