Winds were initially very light but as a weak sun tried its best to poke through the haze it filled in a little as we moved up the coast settling as a nice force 2-3 just enough to allow us to carry full sail rather than the Gennaker. The visibility continued to be poor as we sailed past the Giants Causeway, however our hand line we had been towing had hooked a couple of big fish which unfortunately slipped the hook as we were travelling at 6 knots, leaving just the one small Mackerel. Enough for my lunch anyway!
Passing Portrush
the Skerries sound at Portrush.
The winds continued light but Dark Tarn was forging ahead at 6 knots, the new sails continue to amaze!
As we approached the breakwaters however it was time to stow the sails and put the engine to work for a while as the gentle southerly was now blowing directly offshore. Lynne took the helm and piloted us into the river using the two leading marks.
We were soon heading up the river which is well marked with channel markers, some of which look like they have been made in someone's shed but as that is spookily remenicent of our own River Ribble we felt quite at home!
Our first port of call was Seatons Marina. ( don't bother apparently they are not keen on visitors!)
No room apparently, was the news on the phone, so we tried Coleraine council Marina in the town , no answer!
Ah well on we went and found the only free berth and tied up to be met by Ricky the manager, a lovely man and a mine of information.
we settled Allandale into a spare inner berth. Hooked up the electric and got the mackerel ready for the pan. 25 miles or thereabouts before lunch!
now to explore Coleraine
Quite exited, apparently it has a Tescos!
No comments:
Post a Comment