Carra Tidings

Elaine arrived late in the evening, after a day travelling, to be told that we would be leaving at 0630 and it was likely to be raining – she took it very well. On the positive side, the plan would give us the best chance of getting into Trysunda but no guarantees. We left on time but the drizzle and the low claggy cloud kept the coast line a secret. At least, we were able to sail and as we rounded the headland and glimpsed into the harbour, we had fingers and toes crossed that there would be a space – given that it had been packed 2 days earlier we weren’t sure…..

Well it was practically deserted – there was a beautiful British yacht nudged into the harbour lifting its anchor as we arrived. It could have taken a direct route out but they motored towards us to say hello – as it drew closer I recognised it and it’s famous Skipper – well famous in sailing circles Tom Cunliffe. We chatted for a short while then they headed off south. It was good of him to come over.

Slowly the weather cleared and sun and blue sky were seen. One advantage of being tied up by 10 o’clock was we had ample time to explore the island and it gave us a chance to revisit our favourite stone beach with its big silky smooth rounded cobbles and big grey rocks – shaped by the sea into perfect seats and warmed by the sun. A place for contemplation and just being.

Trysunda was our favourite harbour of the trip and we thought we could do a bit Carra photo shoot here with Elaine as our human drone. We would do circuits of the harbour while she took pictures from a nearby hill. Much to the amusement of the locals from their docks we did loops, sail out sail in. Once over we went bows into the staging just close enough for Elaine to hop on to the bow ladder and reverse quickly. Photo shoot in the can, we left…