Retired Afloat

19 hours ago

Veendam, Netherlands

We left Groningen at 8.30am to avoid the predicted strong winds later in the day. We lowered the radar arch and went "convertible" to get under the first bridge and then cruised 3hrs to the town of Veendam.

It's a lovely little town and very welcoming and we had several people including the harbour master Benny and Roland the bridge keeper, come by to say hello and provide us with information. We're berthed near the centre of town and have been pleasantly surprised to find no berthing fees as well as free electricity and water. We have decided to stay here 3 nights.

There are 17 bridges and one sluis between here and the next turn in the canal, which is only 6km away. So, the routine is that anyone wishing to travel that way leaves at 9am and travels in convoy, and Roland or his collegues open the bridges as you come to them. Should be interesting. 🤔

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Retired Afloat

3 days ago

Groningen - Netherlands

We've cruised through to Groningen the major city of the north-east part of the Netherlands. We initially planned to stay two nights here at the Motorboat Club, but due to high winds we are now staying a third. The marina is right next door to a major hardware store, a ten minute walk to IKEA and a 5 minute bike ride into the city centre, so this has given us the opportunity to make a few improvements aboard the boat.

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Retired Afloat

6 days ago

MV Sunshine Coast - Netherlands

After almost 8 months away, it was wonderful to be back "home" aboard MV Sunshine Coast once again. She was dirty and dusty when we arrived in Drachten to pick her up, but after stowing our gear on board and a few engine and safety checks, we were on our way for the 2hr cruise to Grou. Here we spent 3 days cleaning and provisioning the boat, as well as enjoying one of our favourite Dutch cities. (Also getting the 1st mate up to an acceptable level of presentation)

Today, after a relaxing lunch, we set off again enroute to the northern city of Groningen. Tonight though, we are on a beautiful mooring in a lake, soaking up the sun and enjoying a glass of wine.

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Retired Afloat

1 week ago

Farnborough - Thank you England

We spent our last two days in England with wonderful friends Tony and Wendy, who we met on a cruise in 2020. They took us for an amazing 8km walk through the beautuful countryside and back to a gorgeous old pub, The Millhouse, for lunch.

It was a lovely mild evening so Tony set up the firepit for us to enjoy a few relaxing drinks outside before our flight back to the Netherlands today.

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Retired Afloat

2 weeks ago

Thank You Lymington, it's been wonderful

Our petsit has almost come to an end. We've had a great time in the delightful seaside town of Lymington caring for Pango and Zola, where we've enjoyed great walks, the friendly hospitality of the locals and the traditional Sunday Roasts at various pubs.

While we were here we were invited to the opening of Charlotte's new business, That’s Sew Lymington, in town and enjoyed our Friday night drinks with our new Lymington friends.

We also got to catch up with our UK Mum and Dad, Diane and Keith and also discovered HMS Victory Rum, which is 57% proof and renders long legged blondes incapable of walking even short distances home.

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