Carbost (Isle of Skye) - Stromness (Orkney)
Entry Date: 08.07.2026, at 03:30:00 hrs (local)
Passage to Orkney
| PRID: | 13350 |
|---|---|
| LegID: | 370 |
| LegNo: | 112 |
| Latitude: | N058°51.51' |
| Longitude: | W004°41.28' |
| Day#: | 1739 |
| Log (Day): | 75 nm |
| Log (Leg): | 213 nm |
| Log (Total): | 88289 nm |
The long northern summer days are certainly on our side, but a passage like this still requires careful planning. Wind direction and strength, the tidal streams around Cape Wrath, and especially the timing for entering Hoy Sound all have to line up perfectly.
Our reward is a beautiful, slightly wet crossing. With 4-5 Bft SW wind, we make good progress north, while playful dolphins appear again and again to escort us on our way.
As morning arrives, the Orkney Islands emerge from a blanket of dense fog, creating an almost magical atmosphere. Then, just before entering Hoy Sound, a large ferry suddenly materializes out of the mist right in front of us.
One of the most remarkable aspects of sailing this far north is that it never really gets dark. Instead of a black night, we experience a soft grey twilight, with light drizzle limiting the visibility. And then, at 3:30 a.m., we´re treated to a breathtaking sunrise, painting the sky in brilliant colours.
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