hi gary , tim and all other mossie crew, we sailed last weekend at robe, which is the next bay north of southend, and it was absolutely brilliant, flat water, constant breeze around 12-17 knots, very little weed kelp etc, i did have to dodge about a dozen pieces in a 20 nautical mile race and lift one rudder once to remove tape weed. you couldnt ask for more perfect conditions to sail in. im sure youll enjoy it!!!