showmethecakes Mon Aug 28, 2017 7:43 pm
WCG Shearwater
The ride to Shearwater reminded me of family holidays abroad. Far enough away to feel like a whole new world yet with the security of knowing that it's not too far home.
After a short ride to the Ferry terminal the steward directed me to a lane of queuing bikes waiting for the ferry. Some like to sit and wait patiently while others prefer to get off their vehicles and stand around chatting. Usually someone suddenly decides they need the little boys room despite the fact that they can go to the toilet at any time during the journey. A ferry has toilets just like most roads have bushes at the side so there really is no need to go right now!
Typically the ferry arrives late but it is always an impressive sight when the Mont St Clapson sails into port. Resplendently decked out all in white it is amazing to think how much it can stow away below decks.
Most holidaymakers arrive having spent considerable time preparing their vehicle. However there is always one with perhaps a broken exhaust pipe or a flat tyre who then sets about trying to fix it just as the ferry is about to leave. In this case the ferry went anyway leaving everyone else on the dockside.
The shipping forecast promised a safe crossing. "Hartley's, Rocky, Shearwater. East south easterly 4 or 5, occasionally becoming 3 later. Riders moderate or rough. Chance of attractive females causing large swell imminent. Shitt'n, Glasto, Two Gates. Westerly fart force 9. Increasing bum sores becoming severe later."
Mid crossing there was the usual bun fight in the cafe as people scrambled for food and drinks. The English tourists did their best to speak the local lingo. "Alright my luvverrrr. Wherezat English breakfast to then?" Clearly not understanding a word of this both parties resorted to speaking English. It was at this time that a couple of illegal immigrants were discovered on board. Arthur had brought his friend Tomasz along for the ride. At first the native population were a little unsure. A few initially complained about them taking all our jobs. Others then pointed out that it was only because we refused to do those jobs such as ride on the front into the wind and push Ivan up the hills. We then decided immigration was a good thing.
With the Shearwater crossing almost complete the pilot guided us into safe waters using shipping lane 26. A brief stop in Two Gates allowed some to pump out bilge while others sank more pints despite the prospect of a short drive home once they had left the ferry.
OJC: 3?, KFC: 7/10, TTCR: 10/10 at Shearwater and 9/10 at Two Gates (point deducted for warm can of coke).
PS does anyone want to write anything about the ride?
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