Trip planning

[Clyde_Wanderer]

I am planning on sailing from Mull of Kintyre to NI next season and apart from weather, would like to start my passage planning now.
Not sure what details of planning I should be looking at in great depth.
Is there better times of the season for this trip than others?
What is the best guides to get etc, etc.
Would like to hear from anyone who has previousley done the trip and hear their experiences and views.
Cheers, C_W

 

[Gordonmc]

As we found earlier in the season, moving from the protection of the Firth into the North Channel means you are into tidal sailing and that means pre-planning departures to coincide with the most favourable flows. The Clyde is tide-free by comparison.
Aim to be in either Campbeltown or Sanda (recommended) at a time you can comfortably set off to take advantage of the ebb (reverse, obviously on the way home). Reads Almanac was what we used in May, although we picked up a handy Irish Marina and Port guide while over there.
I will hand it in when passing if you are still at the Clydebank yard.
If you are heading due west from the tip of the Mull for Ballycastle or Rathlin, beware the squiggly lines on the chart near Tor Head and keep well out.
Its a kinder sail (normally) heading for Glenarm, Bangor etc further South.

 

[mick]

The Admiralty tidal stream atlas (NP 222- Firth of Clyde and Approaches) is invaluable in passage planning. I avoid the Mull in any sort of fresh wind against tide, but then I'm a big fearty.

 

[MM5AHO]

Sanda sure is recommended, and the restaurant/pub nice too for an evening ashore.
We come round the Mull most summers at least once, one way. Once went across to Rathlin for a look, and it didn't seem anything unusual! The tidal rip round a bit south of the lighthouse and again between Sanda and shore to be avoided when tide against wind.

 

[Clyde_Wanderer]

Thanks all for your advice, And Gordon for your kind offer, which I would be glad to except, (The loan of it.)
I am taking her up to Clydebank tomorrow,,,, nearly today infact, Sat.
Cheers,C_W

 

[mikemonty]

Might see you there Eamonn, (Clydebank, not Ireland) Stormy Petrel still waiting to be lifted out.

I have a tidal atlas somewhere about.

Considered a trip to Ireland for a season or twos time.
Make sure your insurance covers you for outside the Clyde.

 

[Tallon]

Another thought, have you considered following the coast down to either Loch Ryan or Port Patrick then a short hop across to NI? That way you don't have to worry so much about the tidal streams. Leaving from the Mull side of the Clyde can be a real PITA if you don't get the timing correct or if the weather is wind over tide.

There is a good anchorage (on your starboard side) just after you enter Loch Ryan or if you want a night ashore then Port Patrick has a (½) decent pub/hotel, just watch the entrance to the harbour /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Tom

 

[Clyde_Wanderer]

Thanks Tallon.
Dont think we can afford the time for the route you suggest, will only have about 4-6 days, but will consider this route the year after when going to Dublin.
Hi Mike, thanks, I am also now waiting to get lifted out, as there is a tug on the slings tonight.
Came up yeaterday in the company of Bob's boat, the red Foxhound, will be down there tomorrow, see you there.
Is that yours tied outside Jeff's big red fishing boat?
Thanks Guys. C_W.