Impala is branching out into sailing: I have since I was a boy, had a passion for the rivers and broads of Norfolk. An opportunity to sail in traditional wooden yachts that were built in the 1930’s and 40’s came my way a few years ago so I grasped it firmly with both hands.

These yachts have no engines, so casting off and eventually coming back alongside require a lot of skill and thought. You have to take into account the wind (often contrary) and other boats with engines (often not really under control) and the speed that your boat is slipping through the river, as the staithe hove’s into view. The planned approach has to be a flexible one due to the aforementioned wind, boats and speed. It is very satisfying coming alongside with the way of the boat coming to an end as you step gently off the bows and onto the shore. Sometimes the stepping of is a little hurried so as to stop the last bit of way yourself, but not very often.

I am toying with the idea of setting up skippered sails using this type of traditional boat so keep an eye on our website for further news. I am going to call this arm of Impala – Whispering Willows sailing.

This picture of Hustler 2 ridding to her anchor under a blue, blue sky was taken during this week of hot sunshine after rather a long time of rains.