Moving south along the coast of UK

It was time to leave Scotland and to move south. From Loch Slapin to our next destination, the Isles of Scilly southwest of the UK, there are a little more than 500 nautical miles to cover. This represents 4 days of sailing but we stopped a few times on the way.

Bye bye Scotland

After a quick stop in Tobermory, we continued through the sound of Mull to Dunstaffnage (near Oban).

Carrickfergus (Northern Ireland)

For the next leg, from Oban to Carrickfergus, the timing was key, as there are several sections with strong tidal currents. It was an overnight passage with variable wind conditions.

Carrickfergus is located on the north shore of the Belfast Lough. During the Middle Ages, it was the most important town in the area. It has a comfortable marina and easy access to Belfast via train. We had a great time in company of Jess and Jon, owners of sister Boreal SOA.

Carrickfergus Castle has direct access to the water and the Lough of Belfast. Built in 1177 by Anglo-Norman knight John de Courcy, it has been besieged by the Scots, Irish, English, and French. Destroyed and rebuilt several times, it has been nicely restored to give a glimpse into castle life during medieval times.

We took the train to the seaside town of Whitehead and walked to the lighthouse along the beautiful coastal path.

Once again, the anchorage of Dale (near Milford Haven) came as a convient place for a short stop.

You can tell that there is wind when the surfers enjoy themselves. Fortunately, the holding is good in this anchorage. We were able to complete our professional work and get ready for the final passage.

For the final leg to the Isles of Scilly, we had good wind and waves. As we progress south, we can feel that the temperature is rising by a few degrees.