A canal boat holiday?




 The day before yesterday we sailed from Campbeltown to Tarbert.  Tarbert is is delightful marina in the heart of the town.  The weather had changed - less sunshine with a cold East wind but by the evening the sun was out again the wind died down. We spent two nights in Tarbert - partly to do all the chores that boat life entails and partly because it was such a lovely place to be.  Alan, Roger and I had a run yesterday morning (walk run for Alan and me) and stocked up with provisions for the next three days where we would need to be self sufficient. Last night’s meal at the Starfish restaurant was outstanding - a real treat. 

We set off early today for Ardrishaig, the entry to the Crinan Canal.  We had hoped to transit the canal in one day, but there is a 5.00 p.m. cut off and we had only made Lock 10 (out of 15), so we are moored in the canal with a wonderful view.  Our main hope tonight is that it is too windy for the midges.  Apparently they have been terrible for the last two weeks.  We may have to try out my midge nets - specially purchased for this trip. We are travelling in company with Mark who is sailing a Heard 28 single handed. Mike has been with Mark for the day to help with the lines and we are all together on our boat for Alan’s curry special tonight.  

Transiting the canal has been a real learning curve for me.  Despite practising on the canal towpath, I am a total incompetent in terms of throwing the line high up to the top of the lock for someone to catch and tie us off.  In desperation, I switched to helming Indian Runner and with suitable advice, I am happy to say this has gone quite well.  Let’s see what tomorrow brings. 

Photos of Tarbert, the male crew and skipper and dinner prep on the canal. 


Campbeltown to Tarbert        33 nms

Tarbert to Lock 10 Crinan Canal    13.8 nms


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