Thursday 25 August. Ballyhome to Cambletown. 53 nm .

Leaving Ireland behind us seemed poignant. Originally our intention had been to go to Glenarm first and then across to Scotland. But the weather forecast was for a decreasing amount of wind over the next few days so we thought it best to use what there was. It didn’t really turn out to be the truth and the wind died after the first two hours. Those hours were glorious and we sailed north under spinnaker and a gentle breeze and sunshine. Sadly the rest of the joy across the north channel became a bit tedious. Visibility was okay and the sun shone for a good half of the journey. Unfortunately we were plagued with flies of all things! Not sure what species but they were obviously attracted to pale things…. covered the sail, the fenders and all the white bits on the deck. Not prone to aggression towards any living creature, I found myself swatting them left, right and centre and by the time we arrived in Cambletown, the boat was littered ☹️ horrid! We also had one nice guest … a little yellow butterfly who rested with us a while. The time passed…. we spotted Alisa Craig and sent Robbie a photo 😊. Again sea birds kept us company and Alice got some brilliant video of some dolphins. As we approached Scotland, the skies became grey and it turned gloomy. We eventually reached the point just to the east of Sanda island off the Mull of kintyre, where we crossed our outward track. A significant moment as it meant we had completed the circumnavigation, despite of not quite being home. The weather became drearier and drearier. Eventually about 7 pm we passed Davaar island and turned in towards Cambletown. The friendly HM had said there was plenty of room on the north side of the dog leg ( an angle in the pontoon) and as long as we avoided berthing where some bollards were reserved for a 50 m boat, then we’d be fine. We duly tucked ourselves into the corner opposite the lifeboat and heaved a sigh…..we’re here ….. back in Scotland. Alice cooked sausage beans and Mash, just like she did in Craighouse, many moons ago.🌙🌙🌙

What I learned today…… That I don’t know what the insects were but I’d quite like to know if anyone can identify them?????

Sue x