Port St Mary to Ardglass in Northern Ireland 40 nm
To start with a very disturbed night and at 0530 this morning, the weather could not have looked less inviting. Mist to the sea level, grey and and pissing with rain. I did think “are we really going out in this”? hOwever… by the time it was 0730, the wind had changed completely and the mist had lifted. Still murky but we set off 9 ish …Julian assuring me it was going to be “fair later”. We went through the sound of calf with just some mild turbulence but as soon as out the other side, the wind seemed to disappear almost to nothing so we had to motor sail for the first couple of hours. As promised though the sky brightened and we had lovely sunshine with shimmering seas for most of the way. the wind went round from NW to W and then SW. Increased to a nice strength so we could sail the rest of the way to Ireland. Ardglass has a famous golf course is visible way out to sea as vivid emerald green. Its always a bit of a tense moment going into a new harbour or marina. You never know where you’re going to go or which side of the boat you should have all the fenders on etc. Ardglass is a very small old fishing village and the marina tucked in with little room for maneuvering. We managed to berth without incident (always a relief) and could finally relax. A few days without good nights sleep is tiring. The marina facilities are looked after by volunteers and we were welcomed by a man at least in his 90’s who told us where the fish and chip shop was so that was supper tonight! There is a problem with wifi ….. and no service on phones so this may or may not post. on golf club wifi atm! I’ll have to post pictures later as can only do that from the phone. What a difference a day makes!
What I learnt today was the call of a Manx shear-water. A lot of mums and chicks ( always just one chick) in pairs on the water. They call to them as the boat goes near.
Happy days!
Sue x
Angelique 