Once most of the fleet had arrived, we had a real treat. The launch of Ariane VA226 to put 2 satellites into geo-stationary orbit was due and we were being treated to a trip to view it! It as a very long day, and due to the springs tides we had to haul the dinghy right up into the mangroves to keep it safe whilst we were away. However it was definitely worth it.

From our vantage point, 7.5km away (still within the zone where we'd need gas masks to scrub the acidic gas from the solid rocket boosters if anything went wrong), we had a stunning view of the launch. The noise was incredible - visceral in fact, though quite delayed from what you were seeing of course.

It really is something worth seeing if you get the chance. The photos don't really do it justice....