YSC Swallows and Amazons Overview

SWALLOWS AND AMAZONS

Arthur Ransome's well-loved story was the inspiration behind YSC's first S&A expedition. The idea was originally conceived to try and encompass all sections of the sailing club, i.e. dinghy sailors, racers, cruisers and 'landlubbers'!

We are incredibly fortunate in having members who own a field near to the entrance of Newtown Creek, and who generously allow us to camp there overnight. Camping is not allowed in Newtown Harbour and its environs apart from Corfe Camp which belongs to the Scouting organisation, so this is a very special privilege.

The first adventure took place over a weekend in May 2017, when a fleet of dinghies, crewed by children, parents and instructors, set sail from Yarmouth Harbour together with YSC's Patrol Boats and assorted cruisers/motor yachts. The dinghies were accompanied to Newtown Harbour entrance in a safe formation. Once there, all the boats moored up and the crews went ashore. Waiting for them were other YSC parents and members who had already arrived at the camp site by car, and who had brought all the tents, food and all the necessary equipment for the overnight stay.

Games were organised for the children, such as treasure hunts and tug o' war before the BBQ supper. This was followed by the toasting of marshmallows and singing camp fire songs around a fire-pit. As the sun went down so all retired to their tents for the night.

The following morning, everyone emerged having either 'slept like logs' or having had very little sleep! The smell of bacon cooking on the BBQ eventually brought everyone out and after breakfast, the dinghies were prepared ready for the signal to set sail and return to Yarmouth. The campsite meanwhile was packed up and cleared away by those who remained behind.

And so the fleet returned to Yarmouth, with all crews happy but tired.

What was meant as a 'one-off' adventure, proved so popular, that it is now an annual event on YSC's sailing calendar.

Last updated 14:41 on 8 July 2023