Month: June 2023

Join us on an unforgettable adventure as we traverse the enchanting island of Tiree, a surfing paradise in the north.

Follow our captivating hike through boggy terrains as we uncover the island’s hidden gems. Discover the mystical Ringing Stone and the impressive ruins of Dún Mór, while marveling at breathtaking coastal landscapes and thrilling waves. Immerse yourself in the historical significance and natural beauty of this remote island.

Don’t miss the barefoot walk along Gott Bay’s stunning beach and witness the resilience of Polaris, our trusty floating home amidst the wind and waves.

Join us on our journey as we embark on a trip from the Fairey Islands in Loch Sween to the Island of Tiree!

In this episode, we sail through the magnificent Loch Sween, traverse the captivating Sound of Jura and Sound of Mull, and navigate past the Garvellachs before reaching Kinloch Bay on the Island of Colonsay.

As we sail through these challenging waters, we carefully chart our course, giving the notorious Corryvreckan and its roaring whirlpoo a missl. Utilising the tidal currents to our advantage, we navigate past the iconic Fladda Lighthouse.

Experience the power of nature as we spend a blustery night anchored in the scenic Kiloran Bay, embraced by the untamed elements. Our next leg takes us on a 35-nautical-mile passage to the Island of Tiree, navigating through showers and moderate visibility, where we hone our skills in reading our radar and AIS for safe passage.

However, just as we approach our destination of Gott Bay on Tiree, a sudden turn of events throws us into a dilemma – dense fog engulfs our surroundings. Join us as we grapple with the decision of whether to proceed into the harbour with its ferry terminal or seek an alternate solution. What would you do?

After seven days of being held on Islay by relentless high winds, we finally set sail from Port Ellen towards Craighouse Bay on the Isle of Jura and onward to Loch Sween and the Fairey Islands.

We detect a broken main sail car which requires some unexpected boat repairs. As we drop our anchor in the bay, we find solace beneath the towering presence of the magnificent Paps of Jura, witnessing their awe-inspiring beauty throughout the night.

We share our anchoring technique with our trusted Rocna anchor. We also seize the opportunity to pay a short visit to Jura’s only whisky distillery not without leaving the place with a bottle of Jura’s finest.

As we continue our voyage across the Sound of Jura on a damp and windless day, our destination lies ahead – Loch Sween and the secluded Fairey Islands where we plan to sit out an approaching low-pressure system sweeping over the Outer Hebrides.

Embracing the serenity of this untouched sanctuary, we relish in days of solitude within our anchorage, accompanied only by wildlife, rocky islands, verdant trees, and the occasional passing sailing yacht.