(New) IslayBlog.com, a blog about the Isle of Islay, Scotland
Cask Strength since 2006
Over the years various boats and other vessels have been used to cross the North Channel from Ireland to Islay, from sailing yachts to paddleboards and kayaks. This evening I came across a video of a group of sailors crossing from Portrush to Port Ellen in three Wayfarer dinghies. Enjoy the very well made video:
It took them about 7 hours one way I understand, having to dodge some traffic on the way. They of course were welcomed on Islay and had a good overnight stay, hoping to return one day.
Two videos I found today, both having at least some Islay in them. They are from a series of videos of Sailing Free Spirit around the UK. The first video covers various places and events on the west coast of Scotland including the Isle of Mull and many Dolphins following the boat, ending with their arrival on Islay:
The second video covers their stay on Islay and their departure and arrival to Northern Ireland:
I hope you enjoyed the videos, I really enjoyed the Dolphins and found it quite interesting to hear about all the factors you have to consider for your journeys.
I’ve heard of various ways to get across the North Channel from Islay to Ireland (or vice versa). By plane. By boat (mainly RIB). By Laser sailing dinghy. By kayak. By stand up paddle board. I don’t think I’ve heard of swimming before. That might be about to change:
I don’t know more than is mentioned in the blog post New Swimspiration, The Celtic Quadrant (and the links posted there) I came across today. Of the four swims included in the quadrant one is the following:
The Oa Channel Swim, a 45 km 6-person relay between the Isle of Islay and Ireland in 11°C to 13°C water at £200 per swimmer with a window between 15–20 July 2017 with an estimated time of 18+ hours for crossing.
Further links:
Certainly sounds like quite a challenge to me…