Last leg and home

Day 25 in fact day 26 Arbroath to Eyemouth

Early morning purchase of famed "Arbroath Smokies" hot smoked haddock and "smokie fish cakes"

Only enough water to exit harbour at 12.30 so visited lighthouse museum celebrating Bell Rock lighthouse construction between 1807-1811, extraordinary feat on a tidal reef in the Forth of Firth only exposed at low water. Special locking stones designed and used.

Exiting into strongest wind so far, force 5 gusting 6,first reef in and only half foresail out, scooting along in moderate to rough sea. We had decided to sail due south via Isle of May rather than a direct route taking us deeper into the Firth before turning east to round St Abbs 

Head. Second reef necessary.  A long day out in heavy sea tossed about yet always safe in trusty Swallow.

Somewhat scary approach to Eyemouth in an west flowing sea with waves making the approach in the crowded bay difficult because of the extent of agitation. Once in through the canyon all calm, safe and a sense of deep relief. Resident seals begging.

Let's hope an easier day tomorrow our last day aboard.

The last day Saturday 28 June

Interesting dredging activity in Eyemouth harbour making for some good pics

Through the canyon one last time, with some trepidation on a "strong winds are expected later" warning. We are all keen now to reach home and being in familiar waters feel able to face some more uncomfortable seas.

As it transpired strong winds blew for 30 minutes allowing a comfortable journey via Inner Farnes on the tide, with wonderful views of Holy Island, the unfolding of Northumberland and it's famed castles Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh, Coquet lighthouse to Blyth and Swallow's usual berth.

The end of an extraordinary journey.  

Total journey = 867.52nm (Lands End to John O'Groats is only 603 miles)

Total miles by crew 1 = 389.18nm

Total miles by crew 2 = 478.34nm

 

Total hours at sea = 194hrs

Total hours at sea by crew 1 = 91hrs 40mins

Total hours at sea by crew 2 = 102hrs 20mins

 

Wonderful places visited, great bonhomie without exception. 

3 cooped up in a small space, facing considerable physical hardship at times testing us close to our limits of endurance. A real sense of accomplishment.

Made possible by:

mutual cooperation and respect.

An unusual weather window which allowed sailing every day we chose

Lastly the amazing technology that is available today, modern chart plotter allowing  accurate navigation even in heavy mist. 

As well on the IPad, continuous updating of our position in great detail, measurement of distance travelled and to be travelled, dynamic tidal stream maps allowing hour by hour examination of likely stream patterns and access to a variety of weather reports.

Thanks to our patient spouses Linda, Lesley, Jenny, Carolyn and Gay

Thank you too all who have shared our journey.

And finally, trusty safe Swallow