Long row on Stour to Orwell

A long day with a long row. Very enjoyable but incredibly tiring with quite a few challenges. 

Started with 7.30 am meet in the Maldon boat yard. Drove to Manningtree, with a satnav error up the old A12 (3 point turn with a gig on a trailer was interesting!). Launched at Manningtree then rowed with tide past Mistley and Wrabness (where we spotted the beech houses and Grayson Perry's house). Then past Harwich, round Shotley towards Felixstowe.  Into the Orwell where wind and tide were both against us. Rowed really hard for about an hour until we reached the others. Radioed Levington Marina, where we called in for a light boat, much needed and satisfying, lunch. Then to a cafe for tea where we chatted and rested for a while.

The return route was the same but we used the south bank of the Orwell to make the row easier as although tide and wind were against us, we had shallower water so the tide was not as strong. Rowing home on the Stour was a treat as the clods cleared and bright blue sky with wind and tide in our favour meant that we sped home. Returning to Maldon by car, then launching and returning Ready and Record Reign to the jetty before saying our farewells at 9.30 pm. A fabulous day with an amazing team of rowers!

30daysgowild wildlife challenge = spotted grey seal and marsh harrier