There are so many reasons to learn to sail and this has to be near the top of the list. I filled the boat with my family one hot July day. We arrived and spent a wonderful few hours walking along the river bank saying hello to the donkeys, picking shells and then crabbing off the pontoon – our Universal beasts are large and hungry for bacon!

A warm evening sitting on board watching the marina activity was followed by a very hot day. With twin seven year old nephews on board, I opted for a sail to the top of Southampton Water to pick up a buoy for lunch and then back. There is nothing like a busy July Southampton Water to keep everyone occupied. We saw cruise liners coming in, speed boats, jet ski’s and a club sailing race along with the usual traffic (though no fish on the end of our line!)

Eagle is often available during the week so there is nothing easier than having a quick look at the weather and tides and booking her at the last minute for a perfect day out.