Pete said yes ..... !

Well he had had a couple of beers and yes it did sound
like fun so why wouldn't Pete agree to join me on "Double Jays"first trip from Dunstaffnage Marina to Holyhead Marina. The plan was to drive up to Dunstaffnage, leave the car there then catch the early tide and head past Oban to spend the first night at anchor off Craighouse on Jura.
Anyway having spent a few hours checking her out and discovering everything was okay, apart from a flat battery, we turned in early with the intention of casting off at 3.00 a.m. Well we had a full moon and not a breath of wind so we cast off and eased our way under power out of the marina turning south and heading for the Sound of Kerrera which took us past a still sleeping Oban. It was absolutely beautiful, the sun was just creeping over the horizon silhouetting the mountains, there was a slight mist over the water and not a soul stirred.
Motoring south towards the gulf of Jura we passed through the Corrievreckan straits renown for the treacherous whirlpools and dangerous currents. We had timed our transit perfectly, it was benign and whilst there were a few whirlpools for us to see a pod of porpoises were more entertaining.

As the sun rose the wind finally put in an appearance, the sails were raised, the engine switched off and the fun began! We flew down the Sound surrounded by the most fabulous scenary. Behind Pete you can see the Paps of Jura, the famous twin peaks.

We were making really good time now so we decided to carry on past Craighouse and make for Port Ellen in the South East of Islay.

The wind picked up and Pete, who was helming, started to grin. This lasted for three more days, the truth was that Pete was infected with the sailing bug and he would never be the same again!!!!!