It was bright with light winds so set off for Portland Bill at 8:30 to attempt the inside passage for the first time. Initially we were motoring but slowly the wind rose so we were able to sail. As we came past Chesil beach the wind increased to 24 knots and I started to have doubts about the inner route as recommended in light to moderate winds only and we had a wind over tide position at the bill. I decided the increase was due to funnel over and around the bill. As we closed in to the bill there was calm water in the lee of the hill. We motor sailed around the corner about 200 metres from the rocks and had a very calm passage.

After clearing the bill we set sail for Studland bay but were soon approached by a military Marshall for the Olympic sailing exclusion zone. We were a few metres inside the zone. This was miles from Portland and Weymouth do no chance of seeing anything from outside the zone. The area was patrolled by at least 6 of these boats plus a warship so beware! Reached Studkand at 5:30 and took the dinghy ashore for dinner which involved wet bottoms all round.