Hauling out the chain from the locker when anchoring some while back during the period we were being allowed to go sailing for exercise, under the Covid-19 restrictions, I realised that my ‘rustier’ length of anchor chain had rusted much further since last used!
The chain was purchased without really looking into where chains were made (mostly in China now) and what were the best qualities, in respect to galvanising in particular.
I alighted on Jimmy Green who were one of the few suppliers which give comprehensive information about chain available, its quality and in particular the galvanising.
I then came across EYE Marine based near Suffolk Yacht Harbour, Levington. I got the same information about galvanising in particular too.
The two companies are linked below:
http://www.mooringequipment.co.uk/
The same quality EYE chain was somewhat cheaper than at Jimmy Green – MF grade 40 hot dipped galvanised, made exclusively by MF Catenificio Frierio, Italy – but carriage was more expensive!
So, I said to Christobel, ‘Do you fancy a day out in Suffolk with a wander round Woodbridge…’
‘Oh yes…’ she said, eyes wide open and full of sparkle!
The deal was done. Chain was ordered while we were away sailing a week or so ago and collected a couple of days ago.
Yesterday it was taken down to Whimbrel’s mooring, laid out and 5 m lengths marked off with paint.
We enjoyed a coffee and cake in a place not used before (probably new since our last visit) and enjoyed a walk about. Some crab and prawns were picked up and we later drove to The Suffolk Food Hall near Bourne Bridge and had a picnic overlooking the River Orwell…
We were surprised at the number of closed/empty shops etc in Woodbridge. The place lacked any buzz, whereas locally in Hadleigh, Essex, a vibrancy has returned.
We wandered down to the waterfront too, of course, talking about when we next sail into this delightful river…