St Abbs to Stonehaven 9/5/2018
Bliss
Mon 14 May 2018 21:02
The Almanac, which contains all the information a sailor could possibly need to navigate, well, most of Europe really, has tide times, tidal currents, hazards, and lots of information regarding harbours, moorings and anchorages. This tome of nautical knowledge is updated and reprinted annually, and every year we shell out £45 trusting the information to be current and accurate!
The Almanac clearly states that Montrose Harbour "welcomes" yachts, so when we failed to get through to the Harbour Master by phone the day before, we weren't too concerned about pitching up and expecting a warm Scottish welcome. Fortunately we did make contact on route, and he politely, but firmly informed us that we were NOT welcome, hmmm. He was very polite, and suggested other harbours, including Stonehaven. Apparently, Montrose is an extremely busy commercial port, they really cannot accommodate pleasure boats.
He did us a huge favour, we diverted to Stonehaven, which is absolutely lovely, and quiet, and beautiful. We moored up at about 7.30pm, we then spent half an hour searching for the shower/toilet key that the Harbour Master had left out for us, but quite quickly were distracted by the pub! A really delicious supper of local mussels, chef's special fish soup, and a portion of chips between us was perfect. We may be a bit grubby, but very deliciously content.
Stonehaven Harbour
Thursday morning was a beautiful day, but we had to move on, Friday not looking so good. We didn't have to leave until 1pm, so we ran, out to Dunnator Castle....wow, absolutely stunning
We walked into town, there's a fantastic board walk, from the harbour, along the coast to the town, it's embellished with some beautiful sculptures
A warm welcome, quiet mooring, (only about a ten feet ladder to climb), we were really sorry to have to move on from Stonehaven so soon, and really hope that someday we'll be back.. not least to experience their open air, heated 50 metre swimming pool!!