Well, Findhorn was an experience! We thought the 'Royal' in Royal Findhorn meant it was going to be the poshest place so far! No, that wasn't the case at all. The toilet, yes, one toilet, was useable but not very inviting. The shower (none of us tried it out) didn't have a lock on the door and there was absolutely nothing inviting about the facilities. There are plans for improvments at Findhorn and hopefully, some day, we will return and enjoy more luxurious facilities.

On the plus side, Findhorn is beautiful. The bay is very picturesque and the boats moored either on the pontoons or anchored to mooring bouys made it picture postcard pretty.

The wind was howling through the night and it rained a lot. We were toasty in our sleeping bags so it didn't affect us but it was pretty noisy at times.

Alec was a great source of amusement all evening and we laughed hard and often. I am under the threat of death if I tell you why we were laughing at him but believe me, it was very funny.

This morning we paid the dues at Findhorn (£10.00) and were under way by quarter to nine. The current was strong as we headed out but Lakota, and Donnie, coped brilliantly. She is a sturdy little boat and is as steady as a rock.

We turned West and headed for Nairn. Guess which way the wind was blowing? Yes, as usual 'right on the neb'. It is the same old story, weatherwise. The wind is in the wrong direction and the 'motor sail' is working hard. Oh well, we had some great sailing this week so we aren't complaining. Little Don is complaining that the weather has been against him for the whole trip but I think that the fact that we are now in Nairn is a great achievement and he has done a fantastic job (with a little help, of course)in getting so far.

I wouldn't have missed this for anything. Not very sophisticated but a fantastic experience and should be on the 100 things to do before you die, list.

Must go. We are having a treat of fish and chips for lunch.
Signing off.
Lakota