Haapasaari Island

Aquila
Alan and Sarah Bennett
Fri 7 Jul 2017 16:34
60:17.3N 27:11.7E

After a peaceful night at anchor, we weighed early in bright sunshine to start the 40 mile passage to Haapasaari Island, a certified check out post from Finland before we enter Russian waters. Cold it was: despite the gentle conditions, we were all in full sweaters and foulies, plus woolly hats. But progress was good in the NW3-4, and by midday layers were beginning to be peeled.
The 1530 entry to Haapasaari Island 'harbour' was seriously sporting: the 50m passage through the approach neck was barely wider than Aquila.  But we successfully squeezed through, and 'med moored' stern-to on a visitor jetty. Fortunately there was enough water at the jetty to accommodate Aquila's very deep rudder.
Ashore is absolutely charming: no roads or cars, nesting birds galore, a well stocked shop complete with the Mate's favorite lolly.  
Tomorrow we set sail for Russia. Depart at 1300 for overnight passage, arriving at obligatory check-in post at KRONSHTADT at about 0600 on 9th.  If you don't hear from us again, check the registration in Siberia....