Author: Daniel

In this episode, we set sail from the picturesque Stromness on the Orkney Islands, navigating the rugged north coast of Scotland.

Our destination? The small fishing harbour of Kinlochbervie. Join us as we share the highs and challenges of our journey, including rounding the notorious Cape Wrath.

The weather is on our side, treating us to bright sunshine and a challenging swell from behind as we sail towards our anchorage in Loch Eriboll. The exhilarating sailing conditions create the perfect backdrop for our adventure.

We spend a peaceful night at anchor in Loch Eriboll, preparing for the next leg of our adventure: rounding the notorious Cape Wrath, the most north-westerly point of mainland Great Britain.

Our original plan is to take the safer offshore route around Cape Wrath, but with the unexpectedly calm weather, we decide to spice things up. Spontaneously, we opt for the more thrilling inshore route between Duslic Rock and the rugged cliffs of Cape Wrath.

The gamble pays off, and we are rewarded with breathtaking close in views of this famous landmark in the calm waters. The journey continues as we make our way to Kinlochbervie, a fishing harbour known for its excellent shelter in any conditions. The coastal scenery is awe-inspiring, and we capture the beauty of the rugged Scottish landscape.

Waiting for the delivery of a new camera body, we decide to venture to a secluded and beautiful anchorage off the beaten track. Here, we drop our lobster pot in clear and pristine waters. Did we catch anything?

To wrap up our day, we indulge in an early dinner at The Shorehouse seafood restaurant, a local gem conveniently located around the corner from our anchorage. The meal features freshly caught delights, courtesy of the skilled local fishermen.

Join us on this unforgettable journey as we navigate challenging waters, capture stunning landscapes, and immerse ourselves in the unique experiences that only a sailing adventure along the Scottish coast can offer.

IFair winds and following seas!

In this episode, we set sail from Fair Isle and head towards the magnificent Orkney Islands.

Our first stop is the captivating Island of Stronsay, known for its natural beauty and thriving agriculture. Get ready for an eco-friendly adventure as we explore the island with electric bikes, taking in the lush landscapes and the rock arch called the Vat of Kirbister. Did you know that these arches were formed by the collapse of an ancient sea cave?

As we continue our voyage, we enjoy a beautiful day sailing through the islands, passing through the challenging and narrow Vasa Sound finally reaching our next destination, Kirkwall.

Our journey doesn’t end here; we set sail once more, this time through the notorious Eynhallow Sound with its challenging race with standing waves. We are blessed to do this on a calm day. Along the way, we’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the stunning cliffs on the west side of mainland Orkney, a sight to behold. While a bus ride from Kirkwall to Stromness may take about 20 minutes, our boat journey around the mainland is an 8 ½ hour odyssey, and the experiences along the way are simply priceless.

In Stromness, our adventures continue as we embark on another thrilling excursion, again on rented bikes. Our first stop are the awe-inspiring Vesnaby Cliffs, and the sea stack of Vesnaby Castle, offering panoramic views that will leave you speechless. But that’s not all. The Orkney Islands are also home to a collection of neolithic sites, UNESCO World Heritage sites, each with its own unique tale to tell. Join us as we explore the ancient mysteries of Skara Brae, the enigmatic Ring of Brodgar, the archaeological treasure of Ness of Brodgar, and the mystical Stones of Stennes. These sites are a testament to the incredible history and culture of the Orkneys, and we can’t wait to share their stories with you.

So, whether you’re a sailor, a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or just someone seeking adventure, this episode has something for everyone. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems of the Orkney Islands.

https://youtu.be/zB0waqA7jxk

In this episode, we leave the charming town of Lerwick on Shetland and after an overnight stop in the anchorage of Channer Wick we continue our journey to the enchanting Fair Isle.

This mystical island is situated right between Shetland and the Orkney Islands. A tiny piece of rocky land, blessed with awe-inspiring natural beauty and teeming wildlife, awaits our exploration.

Fair Isle is a paradise for bird watchers and a welcome stop for passing sailing boats on their ways to Shetland or to the Orkney Islands. With only 50 permanent residents, this remote island is home to a close-knit community that cherishes the serenity of this unique corner of the world.

Our adventure begins with a thrilling hike across Fair Isle’s rugged terrain. The island’s natural beauty is a testament to the power of Mother Nature, and every step we take reveals a new wonder. From towering cliffs to lush meadows, we can’t help but be captivated by the breath-taking landscapes that surround us.

One of the highlights of our tour is a visit to the island’s only manufacturer of traditional Fair Isle knitwear. The Fair Isle knitting tradition is famous worldwide for its intricate patterns and exceptional craftsmanship. We get a first-hand look at the creative process behind these timeless garments. A big shout out to Marie at https://fairislewithmarie.com for showing us her beautiful craft!

Kathrin takes a plunge into the crystal-clear waters of Fair Isle’s natural harbour. It’s an experience close to the edge of her comfort zone as she shares the waters with the harbour’s curious resident grey seal.

Fair Isle is not just a sanctuary for wildlife and nature enthusiasts; it’s also a haven for fellow sailors who seek tranquillity and solitude. We connect with like-minded seafarers who appreciate the serenity and untouched beauty of this island. Sharing stories and experiences with these lovely people makes our adventure even more memorable.

As the evening falls over Fair Isle, we reflect on our unforgettable journey. The natural wonders, the warm-hearted people, and the unique experiences have left an indelible mark on our hearts. Fair Isle has shown us that in the midst of the wild, there is a place of quiet beauty, where nature and humanity coexist harmoniously.