Approach and Entry to Lowestoft Harbour and Marina

We had a fabulous sail up from Shotley (near Harwich) in 20 kts or more, with a following tide. Sometimes we were doing over 8 kts over the ground. Approaching Lowestoft the wind was still 20 kts and neither of us have been here before. We secured permission to enter the port but a large dredger was given permission shortly after. Because it was so windy we both left setting out our lines and fenders until we were inside the breakwaters but we then had no time because we had to make way for the dredger. Then, without lines in place and without fenders to protect our yachts, we had no choice but to manoeuvre into the marina, at which point we were told that we had to raft together. It was a very tense moment. In the end Mike managed to berth - an impressive bit of boat handling - assisted by a helpful member of the marina staff, and I rafted onto him. I was very, very glad to be secure, without damage to Bubble or to anyone else's boat.
We are right next to the very smart Royal Norfork & Suffolk Yacht club, but we're both too shattered to make use of its splendid facilities.