Living so close to Falmouth, with a view of the bay from our garden, there is always something to be seen on the ocean. At times, industrial – tankers, fishing boats, rigs – at times curious – the little yellow boat that always appears in the same place and looks remarkably like a submarine, for instance. Quite often though, the sight is beautiful. That is what I expected this week, when I discovered that the J Class Regatta was being held here.

Ten J Class yachts were built between 1930 and 1937, 6 in America and 4 in Britain; they were the largest yachts built at that time. Only 3 of the originals are still in existence, although there are now 8 in total, the other 5 being replicas built on the original design. One of the original yachts, Velsheda, is in the regatta in Falmouth (I think it’s the one to left of the top picture – at any rate, she won today’s race!). It has to be said, they look stunning sailing along close to each other.

Of course, this being Cornwall, yesterday the fog descended and the race time had to be put back; the second photo was the best I could manage. Today, if anything, the fog was worse; from home I could barely see the end of the garden, let alone the sea. I happened to be in town though, and under the cloud level, which meant I did witness the majestic sight of the race starting. I really hope the weather picks up at some point this week, so that I can get some better pictures for you!