Speedwell of Rhu Ship's Log

19 th to 22 nd of July 2016 - Crosshaven, Cork

We left New Grimsby Sound, after a windy night at anchor, around 9.15am. The anchorage was very busy and a few of the anchored yachts had quickly moved onto buoys as they were being vacated. We looked forward to a sail north west and initially, from the weather forecast, this looked likely. It was very warm and the sun continued to shine upon us. Unfortunately our speed dropped to below 3 knots as the wind died completely so we ended up motor sailing for most of the day.

LEAVING THE ISLES OF SCILLY

 During the evening the forecast fog and cloud arrived. It brought with it some occasional wind and so the sails went in and out several times over night. We saw 3 pods of dolphins, one group kept me company during my night watch for around 20 minutes and was a much large pod than the first. We also had curious Fulmars flying alongside, as well as Shearwaters, Gannets and Guillemots. We also had lightening, fog and rain. Eventually, around 6am, the wind established itself more consistently and we sailed the rest of the way close hauled but in rather rough seas.  I discovered what it means to get a wave in the cockpit from the side. Unfortunately we were beam on to the swell.

We motor sailed the last few miles in order to make the entrance to Cork Harbour just west of the course we had managed to sail. When we headed into the river to find a berth, it took a few attempts to get a response on the VHF. However, eventually we were directed to a berth alongside in the Royal Cork Yacht Club, the oldest yacht club in the world apparently. After a quick tidy up we were in the bar for a Guinness.

We spent a couple of days carrying out chores, getting to know the village and confirmed a place for Speedwell at the Crosshaven Boat Yard for the winter. We had the best fish and chips at the Chish and Fip shop on the Friday night.

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