Day 13 - Vilvoorde to Hook

Planned Mileage: 86.94 miles
Actual Mileage: 100.1 miles
Temperature: 17.5C
Top Speed: 31.2mph
Start Time: 09:41am
End Time: 19:10pm
Total Saddle Time: 9hr 29mins

Due to the ferry time crossing being at 10:30pm at night, it was decided that we would be able to have a lie in, which meant we did not leave until after 9:30am. As the team were getting their equipment ready, Gavin decided to steal the limelight and have a puncture. 

The cycling was pretty much uneventful for the rest of the day. We crossed into Holland after 43 miles and all the roads/cycle paths were very flat. At the first stop (30 miles in), Phil & Mark went shopping, whilst everyone else tried to hunt down a toilet only to discover one right next to us in the Tourist Information centre.

The ride continued along the flat dull cycling paths, which meant the support vehicles, had to go it alone. Therefore, I had to rely on information from the cyclists to inform me as to the ‘highlights’ of the day. Apparently, Luke and Spike had a girly push/shove moment, Simon nearly fell off again, Phil never had a strop and everyone was getting a little frustrated with the lack of signage. 

In order to get to the ferry port, we had to get two transport ferries across the waterways. This, along with some of the views across the bridges were the real highlights of the day – oh, and the fact Dicky got the team ice creams which went down well.

As the light was fading, the cyclists finally arrived at the ferry terminal about an hour after the support vehicles. This brought an end to the mainland Europe cycling adventure – after over 1000 miles, the team thoroughly deserved a celebrative drink. Next stop Harwich.

On the ferry, the cabins were surprisingly comfortable, the food was reasonable and the bar staff were miserable. Everyone was in a reflective mood as the group shared their thoughts and thanks about the journey to date. We all agreed it has been an amazing experience and one that we will never forget.