It seems to be an annual occasion that we receive a visit from a Carrier of The United States of America Navy. The Ships all appear to be too large to moor in Portsmouth Dockyard.
A gap between two trees in the next garden allowed me to see the ship through our telescope and take some photos with my Canon Ixus on full digital zoom, if blurred through the Solent mist.
We also suffer from this diagonal GPO Cable which appears Rope Like when magnified.
At least, I was able to catch the 'Sapphire Silhouette' Cruise Liner passing, somewhat dwarfing the carrier.
During the visit she seemed to be anchored astern allowing us to see 360 degrees as she turned on the tides.
Here the morning sunlight is catching the hull.
During our beach walk later in the day, again on maximum zoom, I was able to capture these shots of the stern
Showing her strength, the deck is covered in aircraft of various types.
The little red tanker seemed to be in support during the whole of her 5 day visit.
Back home again that evening she has completed the rotation again but the mist and evening light is still a problem.
A visit to be nearer would be required.
The following day I needed to visit relatives in Lee on the Solent where I am able to get much clearer photos taken from a closer angle.
One of the local Blue Funnel Pleasure boats is passing. They are employed ferrying sailors from the ship into Portsmouth, while on leave.
It is clear to see the Isle of Wight town of Ryde in the background
These close up shots allow for a better view of the Aircraft on the Flight Deck.
One of the Security Boats constantly circling the ship.
More Pleasure Craft nearing the ship.
One of the Green Gosport Ferry Boats is also among the pleasure craft.
From Lee on the Solent, looking across the Browndown Military Ranges, we can see one of the Target Mounds and behind, one of the Cross Channel Ferry Ships makes for Portsmouth Harbour.
Back Home again the ship has swung from the stern through 180 degrees again.
This blurred shot, taken in semi darkness, shows the Giant Number 75 lit up on the side of the Control Tower.
Nothing to do with the ship but the sunset was stunning again this night.
The following morning, we believed that he ship would be leaving so my son and I decided to take a trip along to Stokes Bay in Gosport at the opposite end of the Browndown Ranges where the ship would be at its closest to the beach.
The Map above indicates the area covered by the ranges. In my youth the whole area was forbidden to the public due to the potential for unexploded ordinance.
Today, as long as the Red Flags are not raised, the public are allowed along the beach.
Warning Signs prevail at the gate.
More Information about the area's Flora & Fauna
Even though the ranges are open I can see uniformed personnel moving near to the White buildings.
A Request for Public Awareness.
Sadly, despite being the closest location, the Sea Fret still prevented us from taking sharp Photos.
Stokes Bay sweeps around towards Fort Gilkicker and the Gosport Military Establishments
The sweep of the beach around the Ranges towards Lee on the Solent.
It is said that the lost beach shingle from Hill Head and Lee ends up on this beach.
One last shot, without the camera zoom, showing just how the sea makes everything look as though it is many miles away.
Bon Voyage Fair Lady - Go in Peace.
Immediately behind me is the little Cafe on the Car Park which was full of people out to see the Carrier.
I spotted this crow landing on the fence because its Black and White wings were more reminiscent of a Magpie than a Crow.
We were just about to leave when I spotted this strange, very small craft buzzing around between the shore and the Carrier.
It appeared to be an unmanned remote controlled craft. I have no idea of its use or who was in control of it?
Walking back to our car, to head for home.
I try and take this shot of the Diving Museum located in No.2 Battery, under the mounds, behind all of the parked cars.
https://www.divingmuseum.co.uk/
Frank.
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