David's Diary: Sunday, October 28, 2001

Carry-Le-Rouet, France

Our first passage took us across the Bay of Fos and along the coast to the small village of Carry-Le-Rouet. Our trip was made into 20 knot southerly winds, so we motorsailed into the waves. The wind was harder than we expected, but based on our Canadian West coast experience, the waves were less than we expected. Distances were also deceiving as we found towns much closer together than our regular cruising area.

We picked Carry-Le-Rouet because it was close to Port St. Louis du Rhone. There was not a lot for the kids to do, but we did find a small beach which both Kevin and Allen enjoyed. The cruising guides are oriented to adults and summertime cruising, so it will take us a while to read the guides with an eye to children cruising in the winter.

On Board

We quickly settled into our boat routine. The weather was good enough that before the first day was out we had laundry hanging from the lifelines. Everyone is wearing short sleeves and shorts and enjoying the warm weather. We hope it lasts as we start our explorations of the South coast of France.