Quote:
Originally Posted by Graememcmurhcie
From what I've gathered most people seem to miss out the top of Scotland, for good reason no doubt. I'm not trying to break any records here or risk life and limb. If it's safe to go all the way around at the right time then I'll give it a go. If not then it's through the canal. My boats well equiped, with radar, DCS, chart plotter (full uk map), life raft and all the other stuff we spend a fortune on in the hope of never using. My plan is to sail while the weather is favourable. If it turns against me I can moor up somewhere and head home to see the family. Time is not an issue. I don't want motor unless I have absolutely no other choice. There are some areas of the coastline that interest me a great deal. I will take my time on these.
Thanks for the advice so far and I'll have a look at all the things mentioned.
Cheers Graeme
|
Graeme,
The north of Scotland is the best bit - much nicer than the North Sea and Channel areas. Tide ranges are generally a lot less than around England, but streams do run fast between the islands of Orkney and Shetland as well as some headlands on the west coast so the Admiralty tidal stream atlases are essential.
Given the abundance of anchorages these areas are a lot safer than say the North Sea coast where only a small handful of harbours can be approached in any weather at any state of the tide. Navigation is easiest in the north across midsummer when it never gets fully dark.
The down side is the short season, April is cold and may be windy, but its getting better in May. Its probably best to be heading south again by mid August. Though you can leave your boat over winter in Stromness or Kirkwall marinas (as do a few folk each year). You do need a self sufficient boat for the west and north coasts as fuel and stores may be far apart, and serious ground tackle is reasuring.
Personal highlights were visiting St Kilda (twice) and sailing around the Muckle Fluga, but almost anywhere in the region the scenery and clear waters are the best in the UK.
PM me if you have more specific queries about N coast / Orkney / Shetland, but dont miss out on these areas. They are well worth the effort.
Threaded Mode