Scotland from Northern Ireland

[duke]

Hi,

I'm planning a short handed cruise July (sailing) from Glenarm to Caledonian Canal.
Draft 6 ft.

First leg to Gigha.
second leg to Crinan.
Third leg to Oban marina.
Fourth leg to Fort William.

Have sailing Directions but would appreciate any advice/recommendations/ regarding passage, anchorages, tides, etc.

Regards,

Duke.

 

[Sgeir]

You'll have no probs if you're using either of the two books of SDs. I wouldn't want to be too specific about anchorages as there's a great choice of good places, and the wind direction and strength is usually the decisive factor (for us at any rate).

The holding is generally pretty good, although one or two places like Craighouse on Jura, or the junction of Lochs Eil and Linnhe can have horrendous kelp growth -big thick strands that are longer than our boat, and bluidy heavy. (Without wishing to start another anchoring thread, we find that a heavy fisherman's anchor works well in kelp, but elsewhere we just use a standard CQR - either way we always carry at least two anchors).

On passage planning, there are some tidal gates eg Dorus Mor, Sound of Luing etc, that need to be taken account of. It's a great cruising area - and unbeatable if the weather's good, unmentionable if it isn't. Enjoy it.

 

[Fascadale]

Hi

I too am leaving Glenarm (what a great place, really friendly people) for the West Coast next week. When are you sailing ? PM me perhaps

Depending on what sort of facilities you are looking for then Linnhe Marine behind Shuna is an alternative to Oban.

Good sailing

Paul

 

[duke]

I should have mentioned that Marinas would be preferable if available.

Duke.

 

[Sgeir]

Not too much in the marina dept (fortunately imho /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif), but there are Ardfern, Craobh, and Dunstaffnage marinas. And basic pontoons at Campbeltown, Port Ellen (haven't been since installed so no direct knowledge), Ballachuilish,, and ummm, errmmm... probably another one or two, but that's about it.

 

[claymore]

Its very straighforward really as far as tides are concerned - the flood runs north and the ebb south and unless you feel like spending time sat with a SOG of around 1 or 2 knots then just go up with the tide and down with the tide.

 

[starboard]

How about Gigha, Ardfern, kerrera,Corpach Basin

Paul.

 

[duke]

Thanks to all who contributed.

very useful info.

Regards,

Duke,