Bloodhound sails again
The classic yacht 'Bloodhound', once owned by the HRH Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh, is back and sailing again after a four year rebuild. I was one of a crew of six invited to crew on her 'maiden' voyage from Poole today. The weather was perfect with bright sunshine and a gentle breeze when we set off at 1100hrs, staying bright and breezy all day making it perfect conditions for her first sea trial.
From the moment we set sail, you could feel the power of rig and the stiffness of the the slim 65' hull. We headed out to sea and she was soon showing us why she was such a successful racing yacht, topping 8 knots in the fairly light conditions. When we arrived back in Poole, it was amazing to see the interest in her and the pleasure she gave to other yachtsmen and motor yacht owners.
I can say that after fifty odd years of sailing, many of them on some fairly spectacular yachts, I have never got so much enjoyment as I have from sailing 'Bloodhound' today. Now, if you are looking to buy her, I would like to be first in the line if you want a skipper! Full details of 'Bloodhound' can be found on Boatmatch, please call us for a more detailed specification. Simon Walworth 25th May 2007
