19th August Portpatrick to Whitehaven

Tony and I had originally planned to go to Peel,  so had listened to the forecast for the Isle of Man which was a force 4/5.   However, we decided at the last minute to accompany the yacht 'Ginny' to Whitehaven.  Two factors made this a better proposition.  We had a licence to collect for Help for Heroes in Whitehaven and there was also a car hire company there, and I needed to get back home as my mother was going into hospital. 

I tried unsuccessfully to log on the Met office site and check the weather forecast for the Irish Sea/ Whitehaven area.   Mike, Marje and Mike on 'Ginny'  had also missed the forecast.   We assumed that the weather would be similar to the Isle of Man.  Big mistake and a huge lesson learnt!  We set off in bright sunshine as we sailed around the Mull of Galloway.  Whilst on route, a gale warning was issued indicating force 8 winds were expected within six to twelve hours.  It was not long before the winds picked up and the sea changed from moderate to rough at times.  Having no suitable port of refuge we had no choice but to continue on through the strong winds and rain.  During the trip 'Ginnny' developed engine problems which slowed progress, however it was better for both yachts to stay together in such rough conditions.   It is comforting to know you are not alone.

Both Tony and I managed to remain positive.   We put in a third reef and reduced the headsail  and I heated up some meat pies to keep our spirits up.  Often when it gets rough we play music through the cockpit speakers,  but there was little point with the wind whistling through the rigging!  It was a tough passage, but the crew of Ginny raised our moral by playing Cat Stevens 'Moonshadow' over the radio and we introduced them to Dulux, Moonshadows resident Monkey who sang and danced his way through the bad weather. 

It was a huge relief to see the lights of Whitehaven through the heavy rain.  We followed Ginny through the outer harbour and into the sea lock before tying up in the Marina.  We were very tired but so happy to be in safe.   Huge thanks go to Mike, Marje and Mike for all the help, and moral support.  If you are ever in the Solent, please let us know and we will share that Ginn with you!

Photo shows one very tired and wet skipper!