056:32.905 N
005:45.681 W

Loch Aline, Sound of Mull

Exiting the Caledonian Canal went smoothly this morning and we took this final selfie in the final lock. We have all really enjoyed the Canal, it has been an incredible experience so it was with a tinge of sadness that we then returned to sea level.

Crossing the harbour to Fort William town pontoon gave us the chance to admire spectacular views of Ben Nevis and its surrounding mountains; the sea was like a mirror so we anticipated motoring later on.

Harry’s train ride south was very scenic at the start through the Highlands and he is now back at Warwick University, it was sad to see him go but lovely that he is excited about his research project starting on Monday.

We spent the afternoon heading down Loch Linnie. At one stage it was warm enough to sail in shorts and t-shirt, a first for the trip and wonderful!

However, when the temperature began dropping, I popped below to start upping my clothing when TC suddenly began healing over, I stuck my head up to find a downdraft from one of the valleys had hit TC with a 30 knot squall. I hurried on getting changed when TC hit a large wave, there was an expletive from the cockpit, I looked out and found Bol sparkling from head to toe in sea water (he wasn’t in oilies yet).

Did I laugh…..?

Yes of course.

We then had the rest of the afternoon lurching between 5 knots and 30 knots as we passed the entrances to valleys, it wasn’t very restful and although we tried to sail in one lull, we were then totally overpowered so gave in, and just kept the engine on.

We were slightly concerned what we might find turning up into the Sound of Mull, so were pleasantly surprised to find about 10 knots and flattish sea. Oban is full with the returning Clipper Round the World Yachts, so no space for us to join in the welcome. We pulled into Loch Aline and are anchored in a beautifully calm, peaceful spot, with a seal swimming around the boat; it all makes this afternoon’s F6 feel like a bit of a dream.