Day 35 Tue 19 June Colonsay to Oban
We slipped our lines at 0800, just after the deparrture of the CalMac ferry. Although we did have a brief trial of sail, the day really was a pleasant motor north-east between Jura and the Ross of Mull, and past the Garvellachs and Seil Island to enter Kerrera Sound. The passgae was a mere 32 nM, and we were calling Oban Marina by 1400 for a berth. The marina (which is actually on Kerrera Island, looking across the bay to the town of Oban), has expanded a lot since our last visit in 2007, and now has 130 pontoon berths (some for resident boats) and a number of moorings. We had some difficulty approaching a starboard-side to 'closed' berth in a strong SE-ly wind, but tied up with some assistance from a neighhbouring boat: I felt better when we had to render similar help to the next arrival!
We met Sue in the office and had a discussion about discounted berthing charges in view of our long stay, and had our first meal at the Waypoint Grill. This used to be only in an open marquee, but has now changed to a 'log cabin', providing much needed shelter from the elements, while still preserving the rustic charm of the place. And the food was as good as ever, with excellent oysters (of course) and the knowledge that everything is locally caught and freshly landed. The seabass risotto was outstanding, and the cranachan for dessert is not to be missed!