Beached

Sitting in the saloon listening to the wind howl outside, I have just downloaded some forcast synoptic charts and have been trying to make sense of the complex of multiple lows and fronts predicted for the next 120 hours. I have promised Lynne no more force six or above ( force 6 is sometimes known as a yachts mans gale ) so one possible consequence is that we stay in Ballycastle for another week or so.

It's a very nice place to be stuck and the harbourmaster gives us seven days for five, which means it's also quite cheap especially considering the electricity is free. Surprisingly the weather is actually fairly sunny and bright, albeit windy.

This is actually a surface wind chart used by pilots, useful for sailors too!

This is the synoptic for about the same time.

Today we got crashed into by a school type Bavaria 36 leaving the berth next to us, they took off a bit of paint and didn't even apologise. Very unprofessional, the skipper was forced to take the helm which basically means he screwed up big time! At one point the yacht was pinned between Dark Tarn and the Moody in the next berth along.

Hopefully the weather will allow me to repair the damaged top sides.

Yesterday we went for a walk on the beach in the sunshine, it was quite idyllic.

Just over Lynne's head toward Rathlin Island in the distance is the location of the infamous Slough na hearne whirlpool. The tides in Rathlin Sound run at 6 knots plus. It deserves great respect.

Post script.

The skipper of the sailing school boat turned up this morning with a bottle of wine and an apology, we agreed on a small financial settlement so everyone is happy again, which is how it should be!