Sailing
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We were originally scheduled to sail Toppers, Picos, Catamarans and Longboats, but the strong winds meant that Toppers were out of the question and we did extra sessions on Picos instead.

The strong winds also gave rise to quite a swell, which made it more exciting or more stomach-churning, depending on your point of view. One of the Rangers (don't worry, your anonymity is perfectly safe with me) went quite green and was sick over the side into the sea five times. The sixth time, she managed to hit the instructor.......

Picos are larger than Toppers (thank goodness!) and our initial session had two of us sailing with an instructor. As the week progressed, and proficiency grew, many of the girls were able to sail the Picos for themselves and the final session saw the most ambitious trying a "dry capsize." Hannah came nearest to succeeding - I think her version could be termed a "damp capsize" because she only got her feet wet!

The catamarans ("cats") were my particular favourite. Once again we went out with an instructor, this time three at a time. After everyone had had a sail, we were asked who wanted another turn, and this time, with the winds freshening, we went for a speedier run. Going up on just one hull may make it go a lot faster, but you don't half have to hang on tight......!

The longboats were a much more leisurely sail, involving eight passengers and an instructor. The first group went out armed to the teeth with plastic swords they'd bought in Carcassonne the day before, and with moustaches and beards drawn on with eyeliner! The second group (of which I was one) were much more refined..... we went for a very enjoyable sail, everyone taking a turn at steering, and then dropped anchor offshore so that those who wanted to could jump overboard and go for a swim.