Shotley again, or elsewhere next season.

[Elemental]

It's that time of year again when I start to look back at the season that was... And to think about where to base the boat for the next.

Don't get me wrong, I really enjoy keeping the boat at Shotley. The location is great - close to two rivers and the sea. The staff are great, really helpful. We live in Cambridge and the drive is not onerous.

But we just don't enjoy the Shipwreck any more, we find the food uninspiring and the welcome none existent. Mostly we go to the Bristol Arms which serves excellent Adnams and terrific food (well, we think so anyway). I don't mind the stroll along the road, but the Shipwreck could (should) be a great venue too...

The loo blocks were great when new, but don't seem to be maintained as much as they ought (there's a toilet seat in the gents that's been really loose for three months, the showers could do with some attention)

It's a shame, but we find ourselves considering another home for the boat. Levington (SYH) is a candidate, going to go and have a chat about this 'waiting list' that may/may not be operated. We've been at Woolverstone (expensive) plus didn't enjoy the trek up the river every time we went sailing.

I'm open to ideas...

 

[Athene V30]

Bit of Fred Rift .....

Was in at Haven Point, Ipswich on Sunday discussing options for November to March and they mentioned their main toilet block is being refurbished over the winter. I can honestly say I have seen much worse!

No 'Winter deals' to be had there although Neptune is offering £1 a foot a week ex VAT.

 

[wingdiver]

No 'Winter deals' to be had there although Neptune is offering £1 a foot a week ex VAT.

I'm sure some folks have had winter deals at Foxs in the past. Always worth giving JJ a call.

 

[Debennut]

I am just finishing my first season at Shotley ( if you ignore my two years there, when it first opened). Having emigrated from the Tidemill, I am finding the freedom of 24 hour access very liberating! The staff are very helpful, the lock has never been a problem, as for the loose toilet seat, I am sure if the management were aware, it would be sorted. I agree with the comments about the Shipwreck, but the Bristol Arms is an excellent alternative. I have had berths in all the Orwell marinas over the years. For me, only Shotley ticks all the boxes. I shall definitely be returning after my winter lay up.

 

[DipperToo]

I am just finishing my first season at Shotley ( if you ignore my two years there, when it first opened). Having emigrated from the Tidemill, I am finding the freedom of 24 hour access very liberating! The staff are very helpful, the lock has never been a problem, as for the loose toilet seat, I am sure if the management were aware, it would be sorted. I agree with the comments about the Shipwreck, but the Bristol Arms is an excellent alternative. I have had berths in all the Orwell marinas over the years. For me, only Shotley ticks all the boxes. I shall definitely be returning after my winter lay up.

+1

Had 'fish and chips' a couple of weeks ago. Fish was off. New portion served - off again (staff agreed). Worst bit was the reply that no more food as kitchens now closed. Hungry and disgruntled and no apology either.