Strand Harlesiel

Saying goodbye to beautiful Norderney was eased by the closeup view of the seals at the far eastern end as we moved across the 'Gat' - the channel gates to the North Sea. We got as close as we dared to the bathing beauties although they weren't bothered by us - more by the humans on the beach.
With the wind on the nose today progress was slower than expected but as the mainland and islands geographically aren't so far apart it gave us an ever changing view. Our arrival at Langeoog at 3.20pm meant we had plenty of time for a good run ashore.
The warmest of welcomes from Ulla the harbour master who recruited the other patient yachties gathering in her office to help with communication. One question from me in German & immediately she thought I was fluent, but with a team effort we got there or at least we all felt we knew what was happening . A quick bite to eat at the harbour restaurant with its very own 'Bella bot' robot that arrived at our table with our food just as you'd expect!!! . I'm sorry neither of us got a photo but we were just laughing so much as was everyone else in the restaurant.

We headed for the train, realising it was the last one into town (as per normal)..... but only about a 40 minute walk back - I'm sure we could do with the leg stretch.

Langeoogs laid back pace with no cars on the island was infectious, even the train was slow. Cycles, tractors & horses( & carts) are the only ways to get around on the island if not on foot which added to the islands charm. Peaceful yet interactive with lots of buzz in the town both evening and early morning. Certainly the Germans are up earlier than the Dutch 😏!
After the walk back from town with evening sun we found Whisper tickling the mud at low tide and we were ready for our onboard supper.
Next day we managed to squeeze in a bike ride to explore. Our attire didn't seem to put off the little luxury island hotel staff as we rocked up for breakfast who gave us the full low down of every item available from the extensive buffet. Ron didn't hesitate to get stuck in 😋and I had a taste of pampered life. The tide was calling so we headed back gently. Langeoog had worked some magic and feeling relaxed & recharged we set off.Read more