An interesting day’s navigation. Now in Bangor . Posn: 54:39.87N, 05:40.26W
Circumnavigation of Ireland
Roy Ratazzi
Sun 31 Jul 2022 09:01
A very early start gave me time to ensure I reached the Sound at the turn of the tide, passing some impressive headlands, although I sailed outside the Skerries at twilight, just to be safe.
Photo: First look at the Giant’s Causeway.
A closer look at the impressive Causeway
Just starting to catch the tidal stream, showing Rathlin island on the left
Drumakill Point just past Ballycastle
The Mull of Kintyre across the water
10.7 knots shown here in the race, although 11.2 was recorded at one stage
Highland Rock and East Maiden Lighthouse, about 15 nms short of Bangor
My plan had been to stop at Glenarm, but I had reached there by 1100, so fast was the tidal stream. Next stop therefore had to be either Carrickfergus or Bangor. I chose the latter to enjoy a much needed supper at the Royal Ulster Yacht Club, not having revisited it since 1977 during troubled times in NI.
The first half of the day was exhilarating sailing, but the wind died, became variable, the mist came down and it rained on and off for about 4 hours of donking with the engine.
I intend staying here until Tuesday 2nd, when I head off to Ardglass, some 35nms south.
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