May 8

Wales:

Tom enjoying the breeze on the upper deck

After spending time in Swansea, I left the harbour at 0530 to make the tide, on my way to Milford Haven. Tom joined me as my willing (?) crew,

headland at entrance to Milford Haven

and we set out, locking out the night before to await the tide on the harbour pontoon. First light, and we were off, for an idyllic day. Smooth seas that got even smoother as the day went on, and a wonderful passage from sunrise. We made out way to Milford Haven harbour, and decided that we should make our way even further upstream to Neyland. A wise decision, as we are in the nicest, most sheltered harbour, especially as it is tide protected, spring tides, and all!

Neyland Yacht Haven: One of the nicest, protected marinas I’ve been in

Pembroke Castle from the bridge across the river

Pembroke Castle yard, showing the newly paved square, the Great Keep and ruins of the living areas

Tenby, with the small harbour, beach, and landmark point

Caldey Island from Tenby Point, with the Bristol Channel in the distance

I’ve said goodbye to Thomas, (and thanks for being such a help on this major excursion), after some explorations of the area in a significant walking tour! I’ve also been able to explore the other shore at Pembroke, and toured the major castle there. All good!

Then, a chance to ring in Pembroke Church, with a nice group of people, from early teen to older in years.

I spent a day on the bus visiting the holiday town of Tenby. Lots of caravan (trailer?) parks and camping areas in evidence along the coastline. Tenby is a very pretty town, certainly focused on tourism. A lovely beach and off-shore island attracts lots of visitors. It was a lovely day- until I stepped out from protection from the wind, that was blowing to make 2m whitecap-tooped waves across the bay. I’m glad to be sheltered in Neyland.

I’ve had a chance to ride around the area, exploring the Pembroke Dock area, which was once an important naval base, and is now a ferry terminal (to Ireland), and smaller shipyard.