For the first time in 3 weeks we have pointed the bow south wards.
From Stromness taking the route through the many islands that make up Scapa Flow.
This is the site of many sea battles, with many wrecks and fortification.
During the First World War the German navy scuppered their fleet in Scapa Flow.
In the Second World War Churchill sunk old ships to block off the small channels into this landlocked sea to prevent U-boats taking a short cut to the North Atlantic
The Orkneys are separated from mainland Scotland by the Pentland Firth, a notoriously dangerous stretch of water where the tidal stream can reach 9 knots at springs. The sailing directions all .provide very cautious advice with regard to crossing this 8 mile stretch of water, where over falls, whirlpools and races can cause difficulty especially in high seas and adverse winds.
We prepared in great detail for the day consulting with other sailors and harbour masters. Our passage was timed perfectly and effortless, then with the stream behind us we sped towards Wick at times at more than 8 knots
Homeward Bound! Lovely pics your descriptive blogs have been amazing , really privileged to have been able to share your dream. Safe journey onwards and more blogs to follow! Take care keep safe x Pam
ReplyDeleteJust been beside Firth of Forth today, Bass rock shining, the Fife coast clearing rain, thought of you passing by them in maybe a few days time.
ReplyDeleteinterested to see your route through scapa flow when you get home, as its blocked off as you say, at eastern end. so presume you must have sailed down west coast of sth ronaldsay and out that way ... great last shots of orkney headlands. annie x
ReplyDeleteVery moving descriptions of the Orcadian sites. Lewis and the Callanish stones next year?
ReplyDeleteTake it you didn't need the "black box" , the RNLI can probably go back to their normal manning levels now !
ReplyDeleteSee you next week
H