The morning dawned rubbish. Grey dark and drizzling. A bit “North east coast “ . We got up at 0700 and got everything ready to leave. Alice and Will arrived just after 9 am. We had to get out on the half hour bridge opening, within 2 hours of high water. Actually because it was Neaps, we probably went on the last opening. It was sad to say bye to Peel and the IOM…… we’ve really enjoyed our stay here and would recommend Peel to anyone sailing these waters. Will stood on the quay, waved and took photos for ages. Wishing he was with us. It could not have been a bleaker day. It was grey, raining and windy. 🙁We put a reef in the main and turned towards Ireland. The sea was big and rolly . Angelique bless her, just got on with it. Not the most pleasant journey. Manannan had cloaked the Isle of Man in mist. She soon disappeared and was lost from view. We were alone in a wet grey world of water and wind. It rained and rained. We were all soaked although my Gill stuff fared best I think. Eventually about 4 hours later it started to look Brighter ahead. And then the dolphins came ! ……. short beaked common dolphins again! Maybe the same pod…. and lots of babies 1 metre long amongst them. 🤗. Such a wonderful treat. 2 hours later we took down the sails and rolled into Ardglass. On our way in we encountered a fishing boat on its way out. For some unknown reason gesticulating madly at us and generally making us feel very uncomfortable. Not sure why? There was obviously plenty of room and water for both of us???? Have to assume it was one of those fishing boats that just thinks yachts should be put in their place, preferably a long way away. We went into the first available berth, this time not having the problem of spring low tide. Amazing how somehow all the weather seems to disappear once you’re in a safe haven. The marina here has great facilities despite its small size. It really is a gem. Alice and I went for a wander and got fish and chips for us all on our return trip. Yummy food and a really pleasant and sunny evening! After all the gloom!
What I learned today…… for us , a kids meal of fish and chips is the perfect quantity, and you get a fruit shoot into the bargain!!!!!
Sue x
Ardglass
Angelique 