Howth to Carlingford Lough

Wednesday 10 June, Howth to Carlingford Lough. 45M

We were underway and main/mizzen up before departing the harbour. Very pleasant beam reach from the predicted westerly breeze…… for an hour and a half, when it became anything from zero to not-very-much. Genoa stowed, motor-sailed the rest of the way except for a few squalls, where we actually managed to sail reefed for a few minutes at a time. Wind from everywhere except the predicted west.

On arrival outside Carlingford Lough the pilot vessel was delivering the pilot to a gas carrier, who then proceeded directly at speed. We loitered sensibly and followed them in. Part way along the narrow channel we detected on AIS another large vessel heading out, so we proceeded gently outside the channel markers to let the big guy through. Arrived At Carlingford Marina in 25kt winds channelling down the lough and off the mountains. We had considered anchoring but it felt a tad uncomfortable, so the decision to have a good night’s kip took precedence.

Thursday 11 June. Carlingford Marina – Wet and Windy

If it ever stops raining I think we will wander down and explore Carlingford Castle.
With the tidal stream constraints, we could have escaped first thing (had we been awake;) hey ho, a restful day and opportunity to write a bit and generally chill.

Decided to stay a second night, then head off up to Ardglas tomorrow (29.5M) and from there to Bangor (33M.) We do like some short hops from time to time…..

Off for a walk with burberries.Read more