MV Lion, off Boulogne 6th November 1984
A day trip Diver to Boulogne – a booze cruise for some.
We board the return ferry at 7.30 pm. People are animated – the novelty of the day and satisfaction with their haul of alcohol are still producing a bit of a high.
Long queues for the restaurant form immediately – plates of streak, fish, chicken and pies, with chips and peas, are attacked with no thought to possible seasickness. Did nobody have the confidence to tackle a restaurant in Boulogne?
The boat shudders a little. Outside it is clear and still, the moon creating a silver causeway on the black water. The sparkling lights of England and France wink at each other across the channel. Illuminated ships glide across our path on the busy seaway.
Some people are rolling a bit, and it’s not the boat; some, with flushed faces, are talking carefully and slowly.
9.15 and the duty free shop is still doing a brisk trade. People sit surrounded by their spoils: bags stuffed with bottles of wine; and defensive walls built of cases of larger. A girl cuddles and sniffs a real leather handbag, her trophy of the day.
A tired voice comes over the loudspeaker, ‘Will Mr Glen Beer please go to the bridge where his wife is looking for him.’ A roar of laughter in the forward lounge and somebody creeps out sheepishly.
An elderly couple pass the time with gin rummy and debate who played want and why for each hand. Perhaps the winner will get the Teacher’s.