Ep 29 Sailing Solo through The Scottish Hebrides Part 2 of 2

I finish my North to South passage through the 'Sounds' and 'Mulls' of the Scottish Hebrides. I also demonstrate my technique for getting underway solo from a pontoon slip.

[@hughrainbird43]

I endorse your remarks about the beauty of the Hebridean Islands, and the Scottish West Coast, made during your anchorage off Jura. I enjoyed a number of visits to the area, and the Firth Of Clyde in various ships during the 1980's with a group of friends and the memories are with me to this day. Beware the Corryvreckan, the Strait at the North end of Jura, which should only be attempted in the calmest conditions - if at all - It nearly claimed the life of George Orwell, when he was living on the island while completing "1984", his last work. I watch fascinated all your adventures, and the clarity of your commentary teaches a nowadays "armchair" sailor a lot. Thank you so much for sharing these videos, and safe sailing.

[@patricklaine6958]

Yes -- I passed right next to Corryvreckan (but not down it). I did go down the one just across from it (whose name escapes me right now). It too was quite intimidating!

[@encouragesolutions2595]

This is the best sailing vlog. It's informative, interesting and not repetitive. Not depending on scantily clad tarts or spoiled brat young people is also a big plus too. There's a time and a place for that but not on sailing videos. Thanks Patrick !

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks for the very kind feedback ES. That said, I have been desperately searching for a scantily clad tart……….but as yet have had no success. :-)

[@encouragesolutions2595]

@@patricklaine6958 I'm starting from scratch with no real experience but for a 17ft 85hp motor boat a few years back. What would you advise me to do in the run up to buying a boat i.e qualifications, finding a boat, getting it safe & equipped for mainly coastal sailing? I live in Middle East but am Scottish. Budget is circa $ 60k but seems like you need a buffer for emergencies.

[@patricklaine6958]

Well, in view of the UK connection, tuition with the RYA would be very helpful, but not at all mandatory. The important thing is to get out on the water (with a professional from any school) and learn the basics of sailing. This usually is done with small groups on weekend day sails to start with. As you gain experience in the basics, do a few coastal cruises with your instructor (that last a few days). This will give you a much better feel for what life is like on a boat ----- and you will also begin to see features that you like/don't like on various models of boats. Don't be in a hurry to buy the boat --- get a bit of collective experience first. Very importantly, if you think you will be doing a lot of solo sailing, ask your instructor to let everyone practice the maneuvers 'as if solo'. In addition to building your confidence/understanding, you will also see that being able to reef from the cockpit is pretty much essential for a solo sailor, but not at all a requirement if sailing with a crew. Take some basic lessons in navigation, but far too many courses put too much focus on the ability to navigate the way we did in the 1960s. In the real world, everyone uses GPS now, so I'd focus my groundschool training on radio, rules of the road, buoys, and weather. By the way, no formal license is required to operate or own a sailboat in most countries. A radio license (easy to obtain) is required in many contexts. Only after you get some at-sea experience with a professional would I start to think about the various boat profiles for coastal sailing. Good luck -- it's great fun.

[@encouragesolutions2595]

@@patricklaine6958 Thank you for that comprehensive reply, Patrick.

[@colchesterlug5791]

Hi Patrick, thank you very much for your videos and I hope that you keep doing them. They are very informative about the real challenges of sailing generally, and sailing solo especially. There are a lot of other sailing youtubers, and I have to say that some of them attempt to 'sugar coat' it for the sake of a cool video, but you never do that and what I like most about you is that you are 100% AUTHENTIC, even if that means seeming 'uncool', which at your age (and mine actually) we are well beyond trying to impress people and be something we are not (in the immortal words of the Pet Shop Boys, "I've passed the test, and I don't compete"). Thanks again, and please keep it up. You are an inspiration.

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks for the great message of support Colchester. Completely agree with your comment (too old to try to, or want to, impress). :-) Thanks for watching.

[@mikedevlin2048]

Ahhh the Hebrides… having a meal with views of “The Paps of Jura”… once a sailor, always a sailor…..😉 And Islay… I have led a couple of sea kayaking trips around the island…. Paddling from early morning until about 1400 and then up to a distillery for a tour and a dram… or three 🥃 They were the only trips that I came home with more than I left with… I could just find space to squeeze a bottle of whisky from each of the distilleries into my kayak amongst clothing, food, tent and camping gear…. For a single handed sailor I think that the south west, Cornwall and Devon would be my favourite coastlines in mainland England, plenty of history and wonderful coastal villages with wonderfully colourful characters in the pubs

[@howtosailoceans1423]

That really was a picturesque anchorage, with the Scottish mist and all ... I love quiet anchorages but like you I need to get to civilization too.

[@MarkBottorff]

So perfect, Mr. Laine! I'm impressed by the detail and your willingness to bring us along. Please keep it up.

[@patricklaine6958]

Many thanks Mark. Thanks for watching.

[@glenlloyd4135]

If your around that way again, try visiting Gigha. Lovely little island with a little shop and hotel. Beautiful mooring.

[@patricklaine6958]

Will do!

[@sailaway4559]

Fantastic sailing video, absolutely brilliant with some good sailing tips.Thank you.

[@patricklaine6958]

You are far too kind Sailaway. Much appreciated.

[@robghilarducci3270]

Just think your great! I have been flying professionally for 33 years now and about to call it quits and get back into sailing which I did as a kid with family almost every weekend. It’s a driving passion within me now. Going sail today in sfo bay in a 40’. With really good sailors. So keep up the sail. I relate to you.

[@patricklaine6958]

That's exactly what I did Rob (though your childhood sailing experience was probably much more advanced than mine). I lost my aviation tickets due to a health issue, and decided to jump back into sailing as soon as I retired. Having a great time at an altitude of 9 feet and speed 6 kts. :-)

[@robghilarducci3270]

Patrick Laine thanks for the response, I will keep watching. 👍🏼

[@tomriley5790]

Great video! Did lots of sailing in and around Mull when I was growing up - lovely part of the world and the Sound of Mull is remarkably sheltered - it can be blowing F10 outside and perfect sailing weather inside - but lots of tides and things to run into :-). There are lots of isolated anchorages up there:-)!

[@patricklaine6958]

Yeah --- lovely area. I didn't have much luck with the wind the two times I passed through there though......motoring.

[@MeRioDeLaPlata]

Another series of great videos. Thank you for posting!! I have just finished my first blue water sailing from the Azores to Falmouth (UK) and I have to say that this experience make me appreciate much more your videos and the all information and feelings that you transmit through them.

[@patricklaine6958]

Super MeRioDeLaPlata. Azores to Falmouth -- now that's a sailing adventure. Bravo. Thanks for the very kind remarks, and I hope you had a beer on me at Café Sport in Horta!

[@MeRioDeLaPlata]

I wish I had but we only touched Ponta Delgada (Sao Miguel) and Angra do Heroismo (Terceira). May be next time.

[@patricklaine6958]

Actually, Horta is a bit of a disaster for the short period of June and July. They just don't have the capacity. Boats are rafted 4 and 5 abreast, and the harbor is not particularly protected from wind/waves. Quite a few boats had damage from the harbor experience -fixed pier, not a floating pontoon. I don't blame the staff ----- It would be great if they added a couple of hundred finger pontoon berths to safely accomodate the crowd of arriving boats, but I realize that would be a big investment and difficult to get a return on it.

[@willshaw6405]

You MUST film a least 1 pt of Guiness down the hatch when you get to Ireland!! Thanks so much for these virtual vacations!

[@todmills]

Looks like a very beautiful area! It is interesting, how the approach to travel by sailboat varies so much. I despise motoring and on a two week cruise frequently use only a liter or two of fuel, while other people, such as the fellow I crewed with on a trip from Newfoundland to Montreal, sail only when conditions meet tight criteria, with motoring as the default mode.

[@patricklaine6958]

This is a very difficult point Tod. I hate motor sailing as much as anyone, but I have a trip of close to 3000 NM to complete. The week I spent going through the Hebrides never had more than about 5 knots of wind --- so it was either 'sit in a marina for a week+ and wait for wind' or 'use Volvo Wind' and keep going. I realize this is not the choice many would have made.

[@magendron]

Thank you so much for this wonderful trip offering a very different point of view from the one I used to observe it. Names are still familiar to me while navigating like; Stornoway, Faroe Islands, and others. Only when the clouds would permit it, we had little time to enjoy the view as we were flying over these places at FL360 and M.82, on a trip of just under 10 hours from Amsterdam to Vancouver ...

[@patricklaine6958]

You are cleared to descend and maintain 8 feet, slow to speed 5 kts, squawk VFR, monitor ch 16, 1013 QNH. :-)

[@magendron]

@@patricklaine6958 LOL... All in this very typical « Scottish Control » accent !

[@Lawiah0]

Wonderful update from an absolute beautiful part of the world. Thank you

[@georgecanakis1075]

Great video beautiful scenery. I cant believe how well your boat behaves in reverse, cheers keep on sailing.

[@patricklaine6958]

Yes -- it is a saildrive George, not a shaft and screw. Much further forward -- much less prop walk.

[@stevechurch2126]

@@patricklaine6958 could you do a video on pros cons of your experiences with sail drives ?

[@crstothard]

Thank you for the map overview. Very helpful!

[@michaellyon6815]

Patrick thankyou for a great series of videos , binge watching just completed ! The best sailing , boat handling and destination vision , that is keeping my dream alive !! Thanks again for all you do. Great stuff.

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks for the kind feedback Michael. Much appreciated.

[@goodending4609]

My sister happened to be in Stornaway when I watched your video. Told her to stop by the dock and say hello but you had departed. Always impressed with your docking. Even more impressed that you show your fails. Keep the videos coming.

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks Goodending. I had a very nice time in Stornaway. I was suprised to find a Starbucks in the castle! :-)

[@leaturk11]

I like your laid-back way...just the right attitude for a sailor.

[@patricklaine6958]

Very kind of you William. Thanks for the feedback.

[@sailingreco4909]

Your guilty of my inactivity for the last days, looking at all your videos. Really nice, because it is in fact about sailing. Most part of these sailing channels are 80% BS and 20% sailing. Lovely sailing moments and very instructive. Thank you. If one day you came down to Cape Verde Islands give me a call. It will be a pleasure to have a chat with you.

[@patricklaine6958]

I may just take you up on that Sailing Reco. I'm beginning to think about the next adventure……. :-) Thanks for watching.

[@phantomshipmate1497]

Monsieur Patrick, you are so very gracious through your personal answers to virtually every comment. Bravo Zulu indeed! I have just come across your adventures; enjoying all, including “polishing diesel” … for some reason reminded me of polishing that special brass on Bill la che`vre. Both can work as insurance … you are the crusty old salt! Blessings, fair winds and following seas and long may your big jib draw.

[@patricklaine6958]

I'm not sure too many will understand the reference to Bill La Chèvre, but I certainly do. ;-) Thanks for watching.

[@richardbohlingsr3490]

I seems like you have had good weather and decent seas for this passage. That makes for an enjoyable cruise. Glad to hear your finding the adventure to you liking.

[@peregrinegrace8570]

You should have mentioned the wrek of corievekan. A famous whirlpool you passed. And you got through the hebrides without any foul weather ! ! I hope I'll get the same this summer when I'm there on my contessa

[@patricklaine6958]

Yeah --- actually that long week I spent going through the Hebrides would have been better with a bit more wind -- I had to do an awful lot of motoring. I saw on several other KZbin sites that no wind in the Summer is apparently not that unusual. It is a wonderful place to visit, and I may well come back through there on my return from Iceland this year. If so, I'll stop at different ports this time. Fair winds to you.

[@miguelmercado8547]

I really enjoy your histories. Well made!!!

[@hemsmar]

Patrick, The Isle of Islay (pronounced Eye-lay) is the mecca or the center of the known universe for Whiskey (Scotch) and there are 8 distilleries of which were my ports on my recent solo bike ride around the island. Beautiful landscape and some real characters on that island that you can only arrive on ferry, small plane or your boat.

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks for the additional color Mark. I was astonished at the number of distilleries I saw in the Hebrides. :-)

[@berndmosslacher7808]

Thanks for taking the effort sharing all your experience with us. You are an impressive sailor!

[@patricklaine6958]

You are far too kind Bernd. Much appreciated. Fair winds to you.

[@rimasmeleshyus6545]

Your videos so in details I really like it I am very excited to see all your voyage thank you for the posting. I am sailing too around the world.

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks Rimas. Sounds like you are having a great adventure too. Be sure to look me up if you stop in La Rochelle!

[@ianswales7219]

Enjoyed the video Patrick cheers, you have timed it well and the Celtic weather gods have been kind to you. You give confidence to single handed sailors with your berthing tips in marinas as this is quite intimidating on ones own and you got it down to a fine art, I think your aviation days coming into play (as you don't stop a plane til after touch down :) by keeping a controlled speed on and all this on a relatively large boat. Pining the bow on is also very useful and I use a fender flex fender which is a hinged pneumatic fender which seems made for the job and very forgiving. I notice your garmin in reach seems to live on the Bimini frame is this because the reception in the cabin is reduced or not available. Fair winds and safe landings.

[@patricklaine6958]

Many thanks Ian. I'll have to look up your fender. I can't quite envisage how it works. I'll find one on the internet. Re the Garmin InReach: someone else told me I could leave it in the salon, but when I did, I lost one night of 'bread crumb' tracking that my family uses to keep track of me. I put it back outside after that. Works fine. A nice little addition for added security and peace of mind.

[@simoncarteroz]

I am really enjoying your video's, I understand the table for two and how deflating it is to sail into a beautiful anchorage to find you are one your own and nothing ashore. Safe sailing regards, Simon

[@patricklaine6958]

Yeah --- I'm not really looking for peace and quiet after a long day sailing solo! :-)

[@grimgr]

It is so wonderful. Thanks to you to show thoses incredible North landscapes. For a méditerranéen like me, you made me dream. Isabelle seems perfect for thoses waters. Have you got heating inside? Lot of people think that this boat is only to be rented in Greece.... you show It is a perfect 40 feet cruiser.... It is cool to watch 6 monthes later, I don’t have to wait 😀

[@patricklaine6958]

Yes --- my boat is equipped with a webasto heater that keeps the interior nice and warm. (It is a bit noisy though.) I have often heard people say the Bavaria is not made for true blue-water sailing. It's just non-sense, but let them believe what they wish. Fair winds to you Stéphane.

[@silkyjones2626]

Love the glasses. Good color!

[@TERRIBLYBRITISH]

Love watching your adventures, such valuable content too. Thank you.

[@innismack9398]

Thank you for sharing your journey Patrick. It is a joy to watch. My mother is from Stornoway. Looking forward to Ireland.

[@patricklaine6958]

I'll drink a Guinness for you innis!

[@simonmakinson]

Another great instalment Patrick, thank you. It really is a beautiful part of the world, I look forward to sailing there one day myself. Stay safe & fair seas, regards....Si.

[@patricklaine6958]

Many thanks Simon. My flash visit did not do it justice.

[@WTHNoSpam]

That was as lovely a single handed port side on docking as I've ever seen . Good conditions for it of course, but still - perfection.

[@patricklaine6958]

I've done plenty that make me cringe as well. ;-) Thanks for watching.

[@Andrewmarkbaker]

So enjoying this series. Just one note Islay is pronounced *Ilerr*. Port Ellen was the site of one of the best Scott’s whiskeys. Sadly now defunct, such is progress 🙂. Thank you again.

[@patricklaine6958]

Sory for that. Others corrected that as well.

[@jimmy1231890]

Pop across the Irish sea to Whitehaven, Patrick, the sun is shining, the fish and chips are lovely, and there is more pubs than churches, oh and the marina is quite nice too.

[@patricklaine6958]

More pubs than churches. Love it! Thanks for watching jimmy.

[@robertorzech2466]

Another fascinating video. Thanks for showing us your travel plan. I notice people over in your marinas tend to come and help you land tie up. That very neighbourly ! Looks like you timed the tides perfectly. Fair winds .

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks Robert. The help is always appreciated, but sometimes I get someone who wants to help, but doesn't really know how (ouch), and other times, they are a Godsend. I never know until I'm in the berth!

[@LeifOve123]

Patrick, been away for some weeks and good to check you r latest vids again! Seams like you having a great time! Take care and have fun. Be safe

[@patricklaine6958]

I am indeed having a great time Leif. Have had about 10 days now with little wind, but the forecast coming looks very good! Thanks for commenting.

[@patricklindsay1688]

Thank you for another wonderful presentation, Patrick. My mother's ancestral home is on Barra Island at the southern reaches of the Hebrides islands (her maiden name was McNeil). So I had more than a passing interest in your journey. I regret I never visited those islands during my three tours of Army duty in Europe. I did manage to visit my dad's ancestral home in the Aberdeen area, on the coast of the North Sea, however. I particularly liked your discussion of how the emergency tiller worked. Judging by how difficult yours would be to use, I can see that mine would be nearly impossible...poorly designed and executed to say the least. Again, thanks for another great video!

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks Patrick. I didn't go all the way to Barra -- I stopped just North of it on Uist, then crossed to the Inner Hebrides. Many thanks for commenting.

[@Nixontheman]

Another great episode

[@marcderveeuw]

Hi thanks for your video. A good lesson to be precise about tidal waves and currents and planning a sailing journey.

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks Marc. It doesn't show on the videos, but I really do plan, plan, and then plan some more on each passage. I do not know these waters, so I triple check everything. The passages often turn out to be completely uneventful. That's good! Thanks for commenting.

[@paulcoates208]

Great videos Patrick. I’m learning the game myself at the moment and find your videos quite informative. Enjoy Ireland. The West coast is rich in cruising grounds and quite spectacular, particularly Kerry and West Cork. Here on the east coast it’s a bit tamer but you can always stop into Dublin for a pint of the black stuff! Looking forward to seeing how you get on. Safe trip

[@patricklaine6958]

I'm planning on Howth (Dublin) for the day after tomorrow! I'll have a Guinness on you.

[@wilfwilliams]

Hi Patrick, your dinner for one was apparently on 4/June/2018 a table for 1,398 ! lovely video and as always picking up advice along the way/ Many thanks Wilf

[@patricklaine6958]

Yes --- I now have several thousand shipmates with me at all times. :-) Best to you Wilf.

[@Gerromie]

I'd be a horrible subscriber if I didn't say thanks for showing us the charts. I had commented on this a while back and I'm really happy you included it for us in this video. Best wishes in Scotland. I'm glad you could visit Islay -- hopefully you like the same Scotch that I like.

[@patricklaine6958]

Yeah -- I thought it would be good to show where this is taking place on a chart -- as many will not know where the Hebrides (or Faroe Islands) are. Thanks for the feedback Jeremy. And yes, I sampled some very good Scotch while there. :-)

[@baezass]

Thanks for your videos Patrick.

[@patricklaine6958]

Much appreciated Jose.

[@airgead5391]

I enjoy your videos very much! I hope to do about the same solo on a same size boat very soon too, so this helps mentally speaking.

[@patricklaine6958]

Good for you Airgead. For cruising, I find this to be a very comfortable size, yet easy to maneuver as well.

[@RaphaelOertel]

Beautiful area and good for quarantaine these days

[@patricklaine6958]

It was a very nice place to visit, but on both years when I passed through there, the wind had already 'checked out'. Beautiful area place though.

[@bchadaway7469]

I sailed that route from Oban, pretty much nonstop. Conditions were snotty compared to what you experienced. I wish like hell we could have stopped in Jura or Islay.

[@patricklaine6958]

Yeah --- I had an easy ride. To be honest, I went for 8 or 9 days with very little wind --- which was a bit frustrating because while looking at the beautiful scenery, I was serenaded by the sound of my 40 HP diesel engine. Not good (but much better than a gale!). :-)

[@bchadaway7469]

Patrick Laine We had quite the hilarious (in retrospect) fire drill one night after anchoring (or attempting to anchor, it depends on how you look at it) in Carsaig Bay, opposite Jura. I wish I’d had a video camera with an infrared capability.

[@poulidor69]

All these name of fabulous single malts, I’m envious and maybe you got to sample some of them...

[@patricklaine6958]

Oh yes..... you can be sure of that.

[@wynnroberts5388]

Wonderful! As usual various titbits to store away on technique and good sailing lore. I will be surprised if you don’t get offers to make solo sailing, and dining, a little more gregarious, only time will tell. I suppose it all depends on your audience. Anyway, looking forward to the next and grateful for the last. Fair winds.

[@patricklaine6958]

You are right Wynn. I have had a number of very kind offers..... Many thanks for watching and commenting.

[@surcamar]

Thank you for sharing.

[@bengriffiths2185]

Next best thing to being there mate

[@patricklaine6958]

Much appreciated Ben.

[@umbTraining]

I have learnt more watching your videos than from sailing courses. Thanks for your efforts. Are you accepting crew :)?

[@patricklaine6958]

You are far too kind. I do highly recommend formal training before venturing out solo. The RYA course, for example, are well thought-out. Thanks for watching Rama.

[@benjames648]

Love these videos!

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks for the kind feedback Ben. Much appreciated.

[@thereisender]

Well done! Nice Video!Greetings from Austria , Vienna

[@patricklaine6958]

Many thanks Erich. Fair winds to you.

[@alexphaff8837]

Hi Patrick, Thanks again for two Wonderful video's. Please allow me to make a suggestion for 'arm chair sailors' like me: it would be nice to show a picture of your track, now and then, to make it easier to see exactly where you are and what route you followed! Have fun! (I sure do!!)

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks Alex. I never learned how to do that Google Earth thing that many people use on their videos. I'll try to show what I am doing on my iPad with Navionics. Good suggestion.

[@williambiggs2308]

Jura must receive heavy winds. There are so few trees. Could be great camping. About a 20 mile sail to Port Ellen from Jura I guess. Great trip!

[@ladygardener100]

I think half the problem is the soil, its so thin and generally infertile, also many more more red deer than people [pop 196], and they tend to nibble every shoot. The last time I was there on my cycling holiday, I left it before pitching my tent [no B&B], pretty insular. Islay is more green and fertile, very pleasant, and has at least one great pub, in Port Ellen which serves good whisky. There is a hotel in Port Askaig,

[@patricklaine6958]

I don't know if trees were ever there. They are called 'mulls' which means a prominent headland with no trees! I've heard about the deer/tree issue in other parts of Scotland, but did not know it was an issue on the Hebrides as well. Really not much to eat there other than short scrub grasses.

[@Beneteau2]

Thank you!

[@patricklaine6958]

Je vous en prie. :-)

[@Hmorts]

Really enjoying your videos Patrick, hoping you will bring a nice bottle of whiskey back with you.. :-) from Jim and Helen Spirit of Kent, La Rochelle.

[@patricklaine6958]

Hello my La Rochelle sailing friends from Spirit of Kent. I did have a bottle for you, but something must have happened. It's empty now. :-) (I have crossed the Channel now, and will head back down the coast to LR as soon as I catch my breath a bit. I'll the two of you a cold one when I get home.)

[@squimped]

I'm so jealous right now. Islay is where all my favorite Whisky's are made, and Port Ellen is just a stone's throw away from the Laphroaig distillery (I'm obviously partial to the taste of tar and ashtray) :)

[@patricklaine6958]

I was astonished by the number of distilleries I crossed in the Hebrides. Enough to drive a man to drink!

[@ratusbagus]

+Mikael. As an Islay land Baron and Laphroaig Landlord, I'm very pleased that you like our Whisky. I've not heard it's "smokey" character described as "ashtray" before though. I own an entire square foot (sorry for the non-euro measure) that I bought a good 15-20 years ago, by filling in a tied on (no pun) label that came with a wonderful bottle of their single malt. I unfortunately, like most people I suspect, have long since mislaid the deed/paper with the unique reference number. So I don't know which square foot. maybe the first one Patrick sets foot on, if he ever goes back. www.laphroaig.com/islay/our-plots/

[@squimped]

Haha, yeah calling it "ashtray" may be a little over the top and is only meant to really hit home on the rather extreme smokey flavor of my favorite whisky. Laphroaig is the reason I have a habit of telling people I drink to little - all too often I find myself craving one and then finding there's nothing left at home.

[@Pat.Mustard]

Livin’ the dream 🤙

[@jodebie7141]

Hi, Love your video s and learning a lot. I am very interested in a video from you, where you store your food and what kind of food you are buying for a longer trip on the open water. Also I would like to know how to deal with the garbage.

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks for the good idea or a video subject Hunter 38. :-) Regarding trash, it is handled just like at home. I put all the recyclable things in a plastic bag, all the landfill stuff in another bag, and organic waste (food) goes over the side. When I get to port, I offload the bagged trash. (Every marina has receptacles for visiting boats to dispose their trash.) Thanks for watching.

[@jodebie7141]

Thank you @@patricklaine6958 Looking forward to the video what to buy and where to store in the boat. Your tips and tricks are well appreciated. With best regards, Jo

[@ladygardener100]

That's the Isle of "ling" for Luing, and croove for Craobh Haven. BH is usually "v". A Bo is a rock,, and may or may not be awash. , and a big island is Eilean Mor "ailan more". Pulladobhrain is "pull-doran", and is the perfect anchorage with a footpath to the pub. www.scottishanchorages.co.uk/firth-of-lorne/4532971637 Rhuadh is "red" and Dubh is "black", though pretty arbitrary naming, but it helps. I don't mind anchoring when solo, as long as it is settled weather, and you know that is not going to happen very often. You miss the best sunsets and sunrises, and the best birds when you use a marina, not to mention the cost! You need a pilot type guide with charts and pilotage directions for a lot of the tricky navigations. For those that got this far, here is a lovely little taste of the western isles. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nIeoYZh3iL5prsk

[@patricklaine6958]

You got sent to Spam Jo. I called you back! Thanks for the added 'color'. Much appreciated. I thought I pronounced 'Croove' correctly :-) And someone else told me to pronounce Luing, just drop the i and say lung! :-)However it is pronounced, this a special area of the planet, and one to be treasured.

[@dingers35]

You were doing so well with the Scottish places and the pronunciation of some Gaelic too! Then you arrived at "Is-lay"... It's called "I-lay". The S is silent. Never mind we can forgive you. After all you ARE an American... 😉😉

[@victormagnusson244]

Hello again from Canada . It's been nice to view two videos in short order.

[@patricklaine6958]

Many thanks my Canadian friend. Fair winds to you.

[@DirkJacobsz]

I understand now - some red wine ashore - good plan.

[@RocketSailing]

You have been moving the hull! :)

[@patricklaine6958]

Indeed. I've got 700 NM more to do by the end of June (daughter's wedding in July)! Having great fun nonetheless. Thanks for watching.

[@neptunesfancy]

Very nice Patrick

Very nice, thank you.

[@MiQBohlin]

Aye, bueno stuff! Both scenery and sailing, planning and docking, solo meal and anchor alarm. You might do a little more filming on the actual sailing and all these current flows whilst making way? Maybe it's only from my aspect on interest, but by your way of storytelling it would be excellent!

[@patricklaine6958]

I add some solo sail maneuvers MiQ. Others have suggested the same thing. Best regards.

[@heluf83]

Thank you for inspiring videos! Watching you docking and casting off; Your boat seems to be able to steer straight when backing/reversing without use of bow thrusters. Dont you experience the stern pulling to either side when backing? In my motorboat with shaft and rudder, this has to be considered when manouvering in marinas. Perhaps this plays out differently in your sailboat due to the deep keel and large rudder..

[@patricklaine6958]

Yes Heluf, my boat has 'propwalk' too. It pulls to the right when I put the motor in reverse. However, my boat has a saildrive so the prop is located much further forward than on a traditional shaft-prop configuration --- which means the propwalk is much less of a factor than on other boats. It's there, but it doesn't dominate the maneuver like it does on other boats. Thanks for commenting.

[@richguest]

Another brilliantly done informative video, I think I’ve learned more from your vids than any RYA course! 😜 Any chance you could show us your anchoring technique? As someone starting single handing It would be most helpful to see how you do it.

[@patricklaine6958]

I actually filmed anchoring a couple of times, but it is dead boring to watch. I put the nose in the wind; stop all forward motion; run to the bow and with my electric winch control drop the anchor; then back to the stern to put the engine in reverse until I feel a good solid tug. Really not much to see...... Keep taking those RYA courses. They provide the really essential information. My stuff is really a niche of 'specialized technique when solo'.

[@richguest]

Patrick Laine , many thanks for reply, much appreciated.

[@christinehammell6365]

Love these videos. I've been on those islands in the North of Scotland and Western Isles. I live on the River Clyde , Renfrew. I'm learning so much about sailing but I'm afraid Canals will have to be my limit for solo boating .

[@patricklaine6958]

There is a special boating license required for rivers and canals in France. I looked into it last year, and will do the course this winter! Thanks for watching Christine.

[@FrankNolf]

The usual good stuff

[@patricklaine6958]

Many thanks Frank. Much appreciated.

[@ratusbagus]

Thank you Patrick. I wish you were here and I was there! Have you tried the bow bridle slip at all? It may suit you as you park pointy end first quite a bit. Keep the episodes coming please, thy are appreciated

[@patricklaine6958]

Many thanks Ratus. Very kind of you. Not sure what you mean by bow bridle slip. I have used spring lines to catch the cleat in the past, but with mixed results.

[@ratusbagus]

Hello Patrick, I'm off my old & iffy tablet and on my even older laptop...so fewer typos coming your way. Firstly, where are you at this moment? I'm in sunny West Sussex. Secondly, for this little nugget, you will have to perform a dare. That of filming and publishing your very first attempt, warts and all. Thirdly, hopefully YT will allow me to send you a link....if not just find Duncan Wells SFS (Stress Free Sailing) and look for his excellent tutorial/demo on the bow bridle. kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3rXn6uiqJdkfpI Get this right and it's a great single handed slip, all without moving from the helm. Get the wrong end of the stick (or rope in this case) and it's called drifting onto anchors with prop-wrap. I thought you knew about this technique as you mentioned Duncan in an earlier episode. Thanks again for the episode....don't make them too short....it's the closet some of us can get to doing what you are doing. All the Best Bill Walker

[@patricklaine6958]

Many thanks Bill. I had just forgotten the terminology --- I had already watched Duncan's video on this. (I bought his book called Stress Free Sailing as well.) I use a variety of spring line/bridle combinations when I am leaving a parallel pontoon, but haven't really used them much on finger pontoons. It does look like a good method, and there are times when I can not drive my boat forward into the pontoon the way I demonstrated (for example, the water/electric outlet is too close and my bow or anchor may hit them). I'll give it a try. It's a useful technique to have in one's briefcase. :-)

[@pwijland]

Next time a single malt tour 😉 I'll be heading towards Edinburgh in 5 weeks time

[@patricklaine6958]

Now that is a great idea. :-) There were distilleries everywhere in the Hebrides. Enjoy your passage to Scotland Patrick.

[@staxter6]

Oh, to be moored off the coast of Jura for 24hrs..I would kill for that peace. Islay pronounced 'eye-la' my good man, if you please. ;-)

[@patricklaine6958]

Yep -- I butchered a couple of pronunciations this year too. Sorry.

[@SailingTaranto]

Really bought back memories for me that one Patrick, I once had the privilege of sailing those very sounds in a Starlight 35, Tobermory and through those remarkable tidal races, the first time the importance of tides was truely rammed home, wow. Enormous ships and even a submarine, castles, pints, ferries, Tornado jets screaming over head, and the fog! OMG the fog, 3 hours of it as we passed through a shipping lane! The yacht was based in Ardfern at the time. goo.gl/maps/D7jLvEaBvz12 Great memories. Thanks for sharing.

[@patricklaine6958]

And you metioned many things I did not --- 'submarine training areas' marked onthe charts in the most incredibly tight places, and fighters and C130s flying overhead doing low level training between the mulls. Great stuff!

[@paulmcclure8542]

Good video :-). Small correction, Islay is pronounced “Eye-lah”...I could see my house as you came in to moor up...

[@patricklaine6958]

Ahhh. Very sorry. I waved at your house as I passed to be forgiven for the mispronunciation. :-)

[@emilejacobs2m53]

I saw you anchored so my question was how much chain you Carry on board? Also love your video’s and think you can learn a lot from them. Thank you.

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks for the question. I carried 35 meters of chain aboard, coupled to 40 meters of rope. If I were going cruising/anchoring full time, I would probably extend the chain to 45 or even 50 meters in length. I also carried a secondary anchor with 10 meters of chain and 40 meters of rope that I would have put out in very high wind conditions as a secondary support.

[@emilejacobs2m53]

@@patricklaine6958 Thanks for the answer. Love that I ran in to your channel have already watched 35 ep.

[@cpobyrne1]

Hope you got to have a couple of beers with the Irish lads on Ar Seachran in Port Ellen (Islay). I spotted their boat two away from your berth at 14:30. ~~_/) ~~

[@patricklaine6958]

I saw that boat --- and wondered how to pronounce the name! They did not share any Guinness with me. They wanted to keep the good stuff for themselves I suppose. :-)

[@geoffreybeene]

This might be a dumb question, but I notice it looks like you're rounding green navigation buoys to starboard but entering a port ("returning" as it were) -- do buoys work opposite from US buoys, like driving on the right v left side in traffic?

[@patricklaine6958]

Well-noted Geoff. If you use red-right-returning in Europe, you will end up on the rocks! For historical reasons unknown to me, there are two IALA buoyage systems. North and South America are in system 'B' (red, right, returning), and most (but not all) of the rest of the world is in system 'A' which is the opposite! Crazy, I know.

[@melee401]

7-8 kt rips? Holy cow man, you're a glutton for punishment Patrick. Stay safe. I like the bow fender set up. Doesn't leave one racing for the helm after the bow line is taken in. Are your helms on the same linkage circuit or are they independent?

[@patricklaine6958]

I sometimes hold myself next to the finger with a spring that I release when I back out Spencer, but I don't like dragging lines through the water. I always imagine the worst case and the thing catching my prop just as I need to maneuver to avoid a catamaran. The helms both are interconnected by chains through an electric autopilot.

[@Cptstokes]

Not sure if you will be a position to watch but the VolvoOcean Race fleet is leaving Cardiff for Gottenburg on Sunday.

[@patricklaine6958]

Just missed them Lynn. I'm still about 80 NM North of there on the Irish side. Maybe I'll catch up with them. :-)

[@jcliffelam]

So the bow bumper is only for undocking? Also, I’m sure you’ve said it before, but what nav program are you using and do you have an external Bluetooth or WiFi GPS? I had a nice Islay scotch in honor of this video!

[@patricklaine6958]

o Cliff, the bow fender serves for arrivals (especially). When the wind is blowing off the finger, I need some way to keep the boat in lace while I sort out the lines. I gently ease forward until the bow fender touches the forward pontoon, and then reverse the helm away from the finger, and put the engine in forward gear. That locks me in place to take care of the lines. I use Navionics on an iPad that has a GPS capability (no SIM card). I like this system very much. I use my RayMarine plotter as a back-up. There were certainly many distilleries in the Hebrides --- I picked up a bottle of the fine stuff too. !

[@patricklaine6958]

In light winds, or when the wind is blowing me into the finger, there is no need to nudge the forward pontoon with the fender. I stop about 80% of the way into the slip, and let the wind hold me in place against the finger.

[@John_Smith__]

Patrick take this as a joke but you finally "surrendered " to the Keepturningleft way of sailing :) coastal UK sailing done right :)

[@patricklaine6958]

I guess Dylan won the argument after all! He does get much closer to the edges than I do though!

[@metacentrebx]

Dear Patrick, Quick question for you, Do you always keep the bow fender at the bow or during the passages you take it off? I just installed one to my boat thanks to you:)

[@patricklaine6958]

I take it off the bow (otherwise the waves will rip it off --- lesson learned when I forgot to take it off). However, I just attach it to the foredeck so I don't have to store it anywhere and lug it back and forth.

[@metacentrebx]

Patrick Laine Thank you very much! Fair winds! I learned so much from your videos! one of the best channel on youtube, my compliments!

[@en8581]

I love your videos. Quick question- how do you easily figure out what is the spot for your berth when the marina gives you a space like D36? Are there easily accessible maps for all marinas in the UK and US? Or do you need to often ask for directions? Thanks.

[@patricklaine6958]

Good question Elliot. There are 'pilot guide books' that provide a brief description of marinas and often show a map with the letter names of each pontoon. However, you don't really need that. Each pylon in the marina 'usually' has a big letter name (A,B,C, etc.) painted on it, and as you go down the fair way of that letter, each 'finger' usually has the exact number of your slip. They are not always easy to spot; yet another reason to travel slowly through a marina.

[@brucekratky7993]

May I ask what make of sailboat you have? I am new to your channel, enjoy your focus on technique and navigation issues. I am guessing it is a Beneteau 40 or perhaps Jeaneau. I can tell it is beautifully equipped. It looks large as its motion in the sea is quite smooth and stable. Your docking skills make it look like a dinghy.

[@patricklaine6958]

Thanks Bruce. It is a German built Bavaria 40 Cruiser from 2008. I especially like it because I can do all maneuvers from the cockpit. No need to go to the mast to put in a reef.

[@TroyaE117]

If the wind is a-blowing, ask for help. Trying that alone is a good way to lose paint.

[@patricklaine6958]

That's a nice thought, but many of these small marinas are unstaffed…….unless you are lucky enough to find a fellow sailor who jumps off his boat to help with your arrival or departure. Thanks for watching.

[@phantomshipmate1497]

Monsieur Patrick, your films demonstrate excellent conservation! … veuillez me pardoner if this subject is already covered … fresh water … “Isabelle” carries plenty for you? … any possibilities of use from the fuel cell by-product? Any need to collect the “fresh water wash down”? … always sad to waste fresh water … reminds me of the deluge upon a “strapped up” laundry cart in the 8th wing parking lot on a Friday night … perhaps your passages to date have not been long enough to strain the sloop’s capacity? ... Hope you’re back on the water soon without need of the diesel!

[@patricklaine6958]

Oh oh. This sounds like an insider that can provide many embarrassing details. :-) My boat has a 200 liter fresh water tank --- plus I bring aboard a few cases of plastic water bottles for drinking. It's just not (yet) an issue for me sailing alone. If I were ever to do something crazy like trying to sail the Pacific, I'd install a fresh water maker. (My fuel cell generates only about a liter a week --- not worth the effort.) And remember, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

[@phantomshipmate1497]

Ha! Monsieur Patrick , Je préfère "Stays in Mexico” by Toby Kieth … Anyway, regarding fresh water … do you take a shower with a seawater bucket wash down and a modest fresh water rinse? Or is “Isabelle” more luxurious than such? Or do you just live with a manly scent? … personally, my frau would not withstand freshwater limitations & so is not a candidate for cruising… Reminds me of how maritime life water quality can vary, sometimes can smell like diesel :0( … Si trop personnel, alors mon mauvais. Wishing you safety.

[@patricklaine6958]

I have plenty of water aboard, and a very nice shower in the head --- and another shower extension out on the deck. I don't ration the water at all, and take as many showers as sea conditions will allow for. I think most sailboat owners regularly 'flush' their fresh water tanks by pumping them dry (over the side), or when you fill up in a port, let it overflow for 15 minutes or so to get rid of the old stuff. Mine doesn't have a bad taste to it, but I don't drink it other than brushing my teeth with it. Fair winds to you.

[@ianb4801]

Must be nice to have volunteer helpers but I hope they have lodged the same flight plan as you.

[@patricklaine6958]

That is always the challenge Ian. I get a 'surprise' from time to time. :-) They intend well, so I am always grateful.

[@Sabhail_ar_Alba]

Craobh means tree in Scottish Gaelic (Ghàidhlig)

[@patricklaine6958]

Tree is easier to pronounce. :-) I had a very nice time there. Fair winds.

[@Kampup]

Another great video, cant wait for your Ireland trip. Im currently shopping for a 32 ft yacht for under 5 grand, I plan to work on her for two years the become a liveaboard, Do you or any of your followers know if i can live full time in ANY marina? Im finding it difficult to find prices online. TIA :)

[@Kampup]

Nuno: thanks, I expect to hand out roughly the same again on repairs over time. priorities are bed, engine, marina sails...

[@patricklaine6958]

There are many, many people who live aboard their boat in my home marina of La Rochelle (France). I can't speak for other places. Best wishes to you.

[@Kampup]

Thanks Patrick :) céad míle fáilte :)

[@twozup1098]

13:41 for all you non Scots- its written "Islay" but pronounced "Eye-La" :-)

[@patricklaine6958]

And that was the easy one. As you continue South, you arrive in Pwllheli, Wales. :-)

[@Captin7Seas]

Enjoyed the video - would you please comment on why you are in a hurry and what the cost are for those marinas you stay in? It seems in other parts of the world the costs vary widely Thanks

[@patricklaine6958]

I'm not really in a hurry Captin, but my daughter is getting married in July, and I wanted to get home towards the end of June. I still have over 700 NM to go, and many tidal gates to respect that add an extra day each time. (I've been away almost 9 weeks now!) The marinas in the UK seem to average about £32 to 34 per night for a 40 foot/12M boat, which I find to be about 10-15% higher than the French ports I visit on the Atlantic Coast. They also frequently charge extra for electricity and taking a shower. :-(

[@Captin7Seas]

Thanks for the reply. I also would note that the resistance you are getting from your emergency tiller is likely the dual wheel coupling and if you did lose the helm connection you might have to disengage them, if not already, to reduce the pressure needed and allow an effective use of the tiller to connect as a temporary wind vane

[@darz3]

Another great video, one small point , which electronic charts do you use?

[@patricklaine6958]

I use an iPad with Navionics Darz. I find them excellent for the waters I sail, but others find them less so in other areas (Pacific, and South Caribbean).

[@SailingYachtSaltyLass]

When was this passage made Patrick? We were sailing through that area at the end of March and the weather looks very similar to what we had.

[@patricklaine6958]

Last week S&D. Very little wind the 8 days I spent in the Hebrides. Far too much motor sailing, but the region is absolutely beautiful. I am now in the Irish Sea, and hoping for a bit more wind for the next few passages.

[@beverleyportlock9680]

I will give a shout for you on the radio. we depart Liverpool tomorrow for the isle of Man S/Y Salty Lass

[@beverleyportlock9680]

I gave a few shouts for Isabelle on 16 which was a bit of a long shot but if you do not try, failure is certain. i am now enjoying lovely weather in the Isle of Man

[@patricklaine6958]

I looked at the chart when I got underway, and realised we would be too far apart Beverly. My plans changed rapidly also. I had planned to stop at Milford Haven, Wales from Arklow, Ireland, but the winds were just perfect, so elected to continue across the Bristol Channel and Land's End. When I got to Newlyn (Penzance), the inn was full, and it was blowing a hooley, so I just kept going on to France, where I am today. Life is good.

[@beverleyportlock9680]

Great to hear that you made it back ok. storm hector is battering us tonight so you are well out of it.