http://cng710.blog.co.uk/Lakota - Sailing West to North to East to Westen-EUhttp://backend.userland.com/rss092http://cng710.blog.co.uk/http://data5.blog.de/design/preview/c7/047ddfaf2e529b4c84da5b576424ed_160x200.jpg <p>I felt I should at least add a little story to round off the Little Don 50th birthday celebrations.</p> <p>He has had a pretty spectacular year so far! It began with the sailing trip around Scotland - more or less around Scotland! </p> <p>It took Donnie over eight months to plan the trip and he did a pretty spectacular job of it. He knew what he wanted to do so he made up his mind and did it.</p> <p>Lakota was more than able for the trip - weather permitting! She could sleep four to six people - comfortably, if you didn't have any hang ups about smelly sailors. I managed to do it for six nights so it couldn't have been too bad!</p> <p>Anyway, if you have read this blog you will know that the sailing was infrequent and the motoring was enjoyable. The weather was never particularly kind but the boat and crews dealt with whatever was thrown at them for the duration of the trip. </p> <p>The end was not quite what we had hoped for and even though it would have been lovely for Donnie to sail home in perfect conditions that was not to be. To cut a long story short Lakota is now back on the water where she belongs being given a fresh coat of paint to see her through the winter. </p> <p>While Lakota was on her holidays in Kishorn Little Don had two major events in his life. The first was his 50th birthday - some of you will be saying 'only 50' the photos weren't always kind! Just joking, he scrubs up well! Anyway not only did he reach 50 he also became a grandad for the first time. Donna and Graham presented their son, Adam, to world on June 20th. What a joy for everyone. He is a little beauty and Donna was absolutely brilliant. Graham did his bit by being by her side through a very long night. Anyway, all are doing well and Don is fair chuffed with his grandson.</p> <p>Because the 'big' birthday was so close to the due date for the baby he cancelled his June birthday and made it July instead. What a great idea that was. I meant we could go to Plockton instead of Wick for the celebrations. Not that there is anything wrong with Wick but we much prefer Plockton, for the scenery, of course. </p> <p>As luck would have it, it was a glorious weekend and we all had a brillinat time. The bbq went well and the 'tent' was just the dab. Frankie rocked and we all drank and had a great time. It was just the best; to celebrate with the Sutherland Clan and enjoy the get together in the beautiful Plockton. </p> <p>To all of you who have enjoyed this wee journey of mine, I thank you. I had the best time and I am looking forward to next year when we sail round Skye as a follow up to the sailing experience we all enjoyed so much this year. </p> <p>Cheery bye for now.<br> CNG<br> Sailing By. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/07/19/the-50th-birthday-celebrations-finished-at-last-6545820/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/07/19/the-50th-birthday-celebrations-finished-at-last-6545820/Sun, 19 Jul 2009 14:38:33 +0200 <p>Good Morning</p> <p>We have now been onboard the Taransay III for two nights and so far so good. The weather has been exceptional! Sunshine all the way. This is our third day and it is absolutely beautiful! We are heading for Banavie this morning so that we can spend some time in Fort William. We will meet 'the Nephew' and his girlfriend before they sail off East towards Inverness on Lord of the Glens.</p> <p>So far everything has gone according to plan. On Wednesday, 27th May, we drove down to Edinburgh to pick up Alan and Dorothy, Simon's parents. Their flight was early and it was a pretty decent day for them to view the countryside on the way back to Aberdeen. That was stage 1 of this adventure.</p> <p>Thursday was a splendid day for Alan and Dorothy to rest and recover from their jetlag. </p> <p>Friday was a day of getting everything organised for the trip - grocery shopping being top of the list! That done we put off time until half past four and we headed off to Aberdeen airport to pick up Richard and Judy (not the TV personalalities) but Simon's brother and his wife. Again their flight was early so this holiday was getting off to a good start. </p> <p>We enjoyed a lovely meal on Friday night of, Cullen Skink, followed by haggis neeps and tatties, followed by a chicken and prawn salad. I think that everyone enjoyed it and it was a novelty to have haggis in May!</p> <p>The next day we left a quarter past nine. Both cars loaded to the 'gunnels'. (A nautical term obviously) We made it to Caley Marina by 12 noon and after much hanging about and waiting for our boat (twice) she was ready for us and we had just loaded our stuff and were in the middle of the demo from Derek, the guy from Caithness who works at Caley, when he noticed that the 'dirty tank' light was on. That could have meant that the toilet tank hadn't been emptied - oh, what a terrible thought! Anyway, they took our boat, Taransay III away again and had it checked. Just a malfunction - or that is what they told us!!! Hope we don't have to empty the tank any time soon. This boat is different from Lakota, what goes in the 'pan' doesn't go overboard it goes in a tank on the boat. I know which one I prefer.</p> <p>After a boat handling practice we finally headed out of the marina following at least six other boats. It was our own little flotilla. We made it up through Tomnahurich bridge on on up to our first lock, Dochgarroch. It was great to be onboard again. We had Derek accompany us to Dochgarroch and then we were on our own. We headed through Loch Dochfour and I nearly got run over by the Jacobite Cruise boat. I forgot the golden rule, you always make room for them they will not make room for you! Anyway, after that close shave I had learned a lesson - make way for anything bigger than us because they are not going to stop! We made it to Urquhart Harbour in plenty of time to enjoy the evening sun and have a lovely barbecue on the quay side. It was a beautiful eveing. We enjoyed a few glasses of wine and by half past eleven the die hards, Richard, Simon and me, headed for bed - you wouldn't expect less of us.</p> <p>Must go now and watch what is going on.<br> Signing off<br> CNG </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/06/01/hallo-from-the-canal-6212150/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/06/01/hallo-from-the-canal-6212150/Mon, 01 Jun 2009 10:12:35 +0200 <p>Sorry it has been so long since the last update. I am missing being onboard Lakota and having to work is depressing! Sitting in front of a computer all day is so far removed from sailing/motoring on Lakota. </p> <p>Don did manage to get home, with the help of his RNLI pals. They used the limping Lakota for an exercise in towing a vessel for a fair distance. They arrived in Plockton last Sunday - but sadly, not under their own steam. It just wasn't meant to be. Not the way Donnie wanted to arrive home but after almost five hundred miles it was great to make it home. </p> <p>The new fuel pump is on order but until it arrives there will be no sailing for Donnie and Lakota. There is also a wee problem with a leak! Nothing too serious but it has to be fixed before the next sailing trip. </p> <p>Good story from Don this week - He was working onboard keeping his eye open for the golden opportunity to stop for a blether. Little did he know that he was being watched!</p> <p>This big American gentleman approached and started talking to Don. The first thing he asked was 'Is this your boat?' (Obviously in an American accent - try to imagine it) Second thing was 'Why is she called Lakota?' Donnie duly replies that he wanted to name his boat after the Lakota Tribe. The American gentleman knew about the tribe and as Don explained how he had researched the name on the internet and discovered that the meaning related to friends (the alliance of friends or considered friends)the American was delighted that Don had described the meaning perfectly. When Don asked him if he noticed the symbol on the bow he immediately said 'Oh, the seven arrow heads'. He knew all about the symbol and told Little Don that he was a Native American and he attended annual meetings of fourth generation Native Americans. He told Don that he had not planned on visiting Plockton but fate had brought him there to see the wee Lakota.</p> <p>You couldn't make this up! I wish that Don had asked more questions and told the Native American more about the trip he had just done and how he had named his first yacht after the Sioux tribe. I know that the nextboat already has a name - Indian theme continuing - that will be another story.</p> <p>Anyway, it is great remembering the trip and looking at the photos. I sent copies to Dad, Don and Alec this week so the trip continues through the photos.</p> <p>All the best.<br> Wish I was 'Sailing By'<br> CNG </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/22/update-from-dry-land-6159583/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/22/update-from-dry-land-6159583/Fri, 22 May 2009 21:04:14 +0200 <p>The bold lads have had an interesting day! The wind is back on the 'neb' and they have had to use the motor sail today. Even though, they are heading for the 'Sound of Sleat' which is getting them very close to home. </p> <p>They hope to get to the end of their trip tonight. They have tide until 11pm and so they are hoping to use that to their advantage and could be 'homecoming queen'!! tonight.</p> <p>Watch this space.<br> CNG - Friday night red wine in hand!</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/15/weather-bad-but-headed-home-6121685/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/15/weather-bad-but-headed-home-6121685/Fri, 15 May 2009 19:00:33 +0200 <p>Just couldn't resist this - It has been in my head all night. </p> <p>TIE A YELLOW RIBBON ROUND THE OLD HARBOUR WALL </p> <p>I'm comin' home, I've done my trip<br> Now I've got to know what is and isn't mine<br> If you received my text telling you I'd soon be home<br> Then you'll know just what to do<br> If you still want me </p> <p>Whoa, tie a yellow ribbon 'round the old harbour wall<br> It's been three long weeks<br> Do ya still want me (still want me)<br> If I don't see a ribbon 'round the old harbour wall<br> I'll stay on the boat<br> Forget about us<br> Put the blame on me<br> If I don't see a yellow ribbon 'round the old harbour wall </p> <p>Alan, please look for me<br> 'cause I couldn't bear to see what I might see<br> I'm really still on board<br> And my love, she holds the key<br> A simple yellow ribbon's what I need to set me free<br> I text and told her please </p> <p>Whoa, tie a yellow ribbon 'round the old harbour wall<br> It's been three long weeks<br> Do ya still want me (still want me)<br> If I don't see a ribbon 'round the old harbour wall<br> I'll stay on the boat<br> Forget about us<br> Put the blame on me<br> If I don't see a yellow ribbon 'round the old harbour wall </p> <p>Now the whole damned boat is cheerin' (Well Alan anyway)<br> And I can't believe I see<br> A hundred yellow ribbons 'round the old harbour wall </p> <p>I'm comin' home, mmm, mmm </p> <p>Good old cheesy song. Good happy ending.<br> Sailing by<br> CNG </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/15/another-wee-song-6118718/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/15/another-wee-song-6118718/Fri, 15 May 2009 08:26:58 +0200 <p>What a day the guys have had. Best sailing of the whole trip. No wet weather gear required today! I just can't imagine what that would be like! We had the worst weather possible but Alan Main gets onboard and the sun shines and the wind is perfect. Wish he had been on our crew!</p> <p>They are now in Tobermory after nine hours sailing. They did about 46 miles. The longest voyage so far. They got up to 7.5 knots for a short time but they were over six knots quite a few times. We were thrilled to make it to 6.2 knots a couple of times! Lindsay eat your heart out!</p> <p>With a little luck and wind in the sails they should make it home tomorrow night. </p> <p>Good luck to you both and great show Lakota.<br> Speak soon.<br> CNG</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/14/half-way-home-6117010/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/14/half-way-home-6117010/Thu, 14 May 2009 21:05:26 +0200 <p>Lakota is heading home. They left this morning at twenty to eleven. Alan Main is onboard and they are sailing! Yes, they are using the sails, for a change! They managed to get up to 7.2 knots under sail this morning. That is the best speed of the whole trip. No 'wind on the neb' today. </p> <p>Will load photos later.</p> <p>Here's a wee song to celebrate. Apologies for the word 'gay'</p> <p>Westering home and a song in the air<br> Light in the eye and its goodbye to care<br> Laughter o' love and a welcoming there<br> Isle o' my heart my own one</p> <p>Tell me o' lands o' the Orient gay<br> Speak o' the riches and joys o' Cathay<br> Aye but its grand to be wakin' each day<br> To find yourself nearer to Plockton<br> (Chorus><br> Where are the folk like the folk o' the West<br> Cantie and couthie and kindly the best (cheerful and pleasant)<br> There I would hie me and there I would rest (hide)<br> At hame wi' my ain folk in Plockton (home with my own)</p> <p>More updates as I get them.<br> Well done lads.<br> May the wind be in your sails.<br> CNG</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/14/heading-home-at-last-6114009/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/14/heading-home-at-last-6114009/Thu, 14 May 2009 13:44:39 +0200 <p>Donnie has been onboard by himself for another day. He seems happy as Larry! He managed get down to the sea lock and is ready to go as soon as Alan arrives. The last leg is the big one! Heading home after more than two weeks. I hope that there is a reception party there to meet them.</p> <p>The good news is, he has had a shave. That must have been sore! Imaac would have been the answer! </p> <p>Donald Jocky's photos are on the blog and he has some lovely pictures. The West Coast is so much bonnier than the East Coast. It shows in the photos. Mind you, we were at a disadvantage, we had rubbish weather and no sunshine. Maybe we could have had better pictures if the sun had shone.</p> <p>Anyway, looking forward to Donnie heading North on the West coast. Christine will be happy to get the old dog home!</p> <p>Signing off after a day in the office (yeuch)<br> CNG</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/12/news-from-the-west-6104762/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/12/news-from-the-west-6104762/Tue, 12 May 2009 20:36:57 +0200 <p>What kind of staying power is that? Two nights!!! The North East toughies managed seven nights! What does that tell you?</p> <p>Could it be the fact that Little Don hadn't had a shower in a few days that drove the West coasters off the Lakota? Couldn't blame them if that was the reason. Maybe the rough weather in Loch Ness was too much? Anyway, we get points for staying onboard longer than Donald Jocky and Rossy.</p> <p>I hope that Don manages to eat corned beef hash every day until his crew arrives. We refused to have it so there is masses left. Who on earth would eat corned beef hash if they weren't starving and on top of a mountain? A combination of that and porrige will be his staple diet for the next few days.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/11/the-westcoasters-have-jumped-ship1-6098188/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/11/the-westcoasters-have-jumped-ship1-6098188/Mon, 11 May 2009 18:33:17 +0200 <p>What a beautiful day! No wind, rain, hailstones, big waves or smelly blokies! BLISS! Not that I don't miss the boat and the boys but it is good to be home. I had a great sleep last night and a long lie this morning. What a joy! </p> <p>Update from the West Coasters - They did go through Loch Ness yesterday - with the usual weather. Wind on the neb, lumpy water and hailstones. Sound familiar? So much for a nice easy cruise to Fort Augustus! They made it there last night and this morning woke to sunny weather and Christine and Morgan there to see them. They boarded at the bottom of the flight and once at the top had bacon sarnies and tea before the intrepid sailors headed West. They must have made good time because tonight they are tied to the quay in Banavie. At least Little Don will get a shower there. He must be as high as a kite by now. He tells me he hasn't shaved yet so he must be pretty crusty by now! </p> <p>The plan is, they will go down Neptune's Staircase tomorrow, Donald Jocky and Rossy will get the bus home and Don will stay with Lakota until his next crew member joins on Thursday for the long haul back up the West coast to Plockton. </p> <p>It has been a brilliant voyage so far and no doubt the next leg will be just as interesting. Maybe for a change, they will get to sail for a while. </p> <p>I will have plenty to say over the coming days so don't give up on us yet. I have uploaded a bunch of photos to bore you to tears.</p> <p>Signing off from dry land.<br> CNG</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/10/sunday-glorious-sunday-6093271/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/10/sunday-glorious-sunday-6093271/Sun, 10 May 2009 21:18:00 +0200 <p>Well, the day has finally come - we have to get off and go home! </p> <p>Our time on Lakota was not without its trials but it certainly was an experience never to be forgotten. We had such a laugh (mostly at Alec's expense) and the time together will always be special.</p> <p>We eventually reached the canal this morning about 9am. There was only one other yacht going through so it was easy. I was especially delighted to be coming in to the canal from the sea. Having holidayed on the canal last year and being restricted to staying within the locks it was exciting to come through the very first locks and in to Clachnaharry. </p> <p>We were met at the lock keepers cottage by Rossy (not sure if it is y or ie - sorry) and Donald Jockey (that is what Little Don calls him so that is all I have to go on). Anyway, I have to tell you that the new crew have far more exciting careers than us - Rossy is an UNDERTAKER and Donald Jockey is a TRAIN DRIVER - I know, you couldn't make it up!! Just wait for the paramedic!</p> <p>We took on 44 litres of diesel and to Don's delight it was cheaper than he expected. Not often that happens!</p> <p>We then went up the flight at Muirtown and that was when we were chucked off!! I told Little Don I would be glad to see the back of him. Not strictly true but he was a bit High - no shower for him for two days and he hasn't shaved since he left home. I hope Christine arrives after the shower and shave! We had to leave and let the other guys get on with it. I was really sorry not to be going up the canal with Lakota. She is such a great wee boat. I am so impressed with how she (and Little Don) handled the weather she was faced with. I will never forget the bl**dy waves from yesterday. It was a pain in the neck!</p> <p>I will keep the blog going tomorrow when I get an update from the guys. The last I heard was from Don about quarter to three and they were heading in to Loch Ness. I just hope the wind is not on their 'neb'!</p> <p>Now that I am clean with straight hair and a glass of red wine in my hand I am ready to go to my soft, clean, cosy bed. Eat your heart our Rossy and Donald Jocky!!!</p> <p>Have a great trip.<br> Signing off from dry land.</p> <p>CNG </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/09/sad-sad-day-6088386/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/09/sad-sad-day-6088386/Sat, 09 May 2009 20:53:01 +0200 <p>Well, since my last update our luck was still dire! We finally made it under the bridge about twenty past six. The tide had eased and we managed over three knots all the way. That was the end of our horendous day, I thought. No such luck! We got up to the canal but there was nowhere to shelter from our favourite wind - it was blowing South Westerly at 'a rate of knots' (play on words there). We couldn't tie up there so we headed back down the firth to the marina. Should have been a doddle! No chance! We get down to the point, just before you turn to starboard to get in to the channel heading for the marina, we 'touched' the bottom and were 'slightly' worried!!! We made it in to the very posh Inverness Marina with tired and weary bones. It has been a hard day! </p> <p>Much as I have loved every minute of this trip I am looking forward to having clean hands and having straight hair again. Oh and my soft and comfy bed (with Simon in it, obviously) is going to be a dream come true. </p> <p>I can't imagine not wearing three layers of clothes when I go to bed tomorrow night. I know, that is pathetic! I have only been away for a week. I am too used to my home comforts - bring it on! I am no Ellen MacArthur!(hope that is how you spell her name. Little Don is rubbish at spelling) </p> <p>Signing off from Lakota. I will still update the blog with information from Don and his next crew. </p> <p>SAILING BY<br> CNG </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/08/our-last-night-onboard-still-feels-like-friday-13th-6083647/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/08/our-last-night-onboard-still-feels-like-friday-13th-6083647/Fri, 08 May 2009 21:43:07 +0200 <p>Well, what a day we have had! No exageration but it has been terrible! We left Nairn at quarter to ten this morning and it is now almost ten past five in the evening and we aren'e in Inverness yet. The weather has been a total pain. Lord knows how strong the winds were but it felt like gale force to me! At one stage, just past Channory Point we had to turn round and then once a wee coaster passed us, heading for Inverness, we crossed from the South Side to the North Side (with many lumpy and uncomfortable waves) for some shelter. It was blowing a hoolie, again! We eventually made the approach to the bridge but the tide was against us and just as we were almost underneath it we started to go astern! NOT GOOD!! Skipper (have ditched all of the other names for Don today) made the decision to turn around and we would try to find shelter for a few hours. Not as easy as it sounds. He also decided to try dropping the anchor so that we could be a peace until it was time to head for Inverness again but lo and behold - it wouldn't hold. Totally US! The Gods are against this trip. We only wanted one small break and make it up to the canal but NO we are now sitting moaning about the whole rubbish day and watching the clock, very slowly move towards six o'clock. </p> <p>Phoned my sister to tell her all of the above and she had the cheek to ask if I was 'spewing'. No chance. I wouldn't be here if I had a weak stomach. Not only for the weather but for sharing the boat with my brothers. Not something I would recommend to someone with a delicate stomach.</p> <p>Must sign off now. We are all scunnered!</p> <p>Sailing by, with any luck, soon.<br> LAKOTA</p> <p>PS Photos will be uploaded once I get home to a faster connection - not that there is anything wrong with the dongle. It has been brilliant.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/08/feels-like-friday-13th-6082428/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/08/feels-like-friday-13th-6082428/Fri, 08 May 2009 17:18:15 +0200 <p>Well, the weather has been dreadful overnight and is still dreadful! We were up at 6am because Lindsay had to be at the railway station for the back of seven. He hoped that the weather would not be as bad up North and that he could get a ferry home later this afternoon. From the texts he has been sending he has three choices of boats but so far none of them are sailing. Fingers crossed he gets home to his girls today and doesn't have to stay in Caithness overnight.</p> <p>We are sitting onboard just praying for the wind to drop. It is gusting at about 40 knots. We are in an enclosed harbour on a safe berth but we are moving around like a cork! If possible we will leave in the middle of the night in the hope of getting in to Inverness in the morning. The way the weather looks on the internet, we could be stuck here until mid afternoon tomorrow. The problem is, there is only an hour and a half window, either side of high water for leaving Nairn. That restricts us a lot. It is because of the sand bars just outside the harbour. Beautiful to look at but not great for boats on a tight timetable.</p> <p>Praying for calm seas and light winds!<br> Not sailing by.<br> LAKOTA</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/07/still-in-nairn-6075636/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/07/still-in-nairn-6075636/Thu, 07 May 2009 14:35:02 +0200 <p>We have been sitting in Nairn for almost nine hours and it has rained for about seven of them! We all had showers in the Yacht Club. Sounds more glam than it was. Mind you, compared to Findhorn, Nairn facilities are five star! </p> <p>Not much else going on today. The weather forecast is bad for the coming days so we don't know if we will leave here tomorrow or stay for another day and make our way up to Inverness on Friday. It all depends on the weather, as usual. </p> <p>Lindsay leaves us tomorrow to make his way back to Orkney. The three of us will sail (probably using the engine) to Inverness. Alec will head for Dunbeath for a couple of days before going home to Orkney and Simon will come and pick me up. Looking forward to getting home to my lovely soft bed! </p> <p>Will update you tomorrow with our progress. If we leave Nairn!<br> Sailing by.<br> Lakota Crew</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/06/wet-and-windy-nairn-6071170/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/06/wet-and-windy-nairn-6071170/Wed, 06 May 2009 19:57:31 +0200 <p>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. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>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. </p> <p>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.</p> <p>Must go. We are having a treat of fish and chips for lunch.<br> Signing off.<br> Lakota </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/06/findhorn-and-beyond-6068472/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/06/findhorn-and-beyond-6068472/Wed, 06 May 2009 12:47:17 +0200 <p>This is a very quick update tonight. I will try and add to it later. We are all wet and in need of 'bond'!</p> <p>We are just tying up in Findhorn after a hair raising approach! We tried our luck at half past six but we ran aground so we had to give her a good kick astern to get her off the sandbank and then head back out to deeper water. About half an hour later we tried again and made it in to the pontoon in front of the yacht club. It is miserable and dull but we are glad to be tied up. </p> <p>Off to cook dinner. More later.<br> Signing off<br> Lakota </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/05/from-royal-findhorn-6064763/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/05/from-royal-findhorn-6064763/Tue, 05 May 2009 19:52:39 +0200 <p>We are heaing to wards Burghead under 'motor sail'! We would have to go too high out to catch enough wind to sail so today we are sightseeing along the Moray coast. It is a lovely day. The sun was hot as we sat on deck this morning. Pity we had to leave Lossiemouth because of noise pollution! The flipping RAF were going round and round in circles making a heck of a racket! Then the guys digging up the roads started. We couldn't stand it! Got all dressed up and we are now enjoying the noise of the engine and the hull on the water - much better.</p> <p>All clean and sparkling today. The showers and toilets at Lossie are great. Clean and your £1 goes a long way. Pity there was no electricity point to plug in my hair straightners!!! Okay, so maybe I will never be a true sailor but I need my lippy and straightners - nailvarnish is a close second! </p> <p>By the way, I did tie off the fenders this morning so I am contributing something useful to this trip. Oh, and of course I cooked the breakfast. Brilliant butcher in Lossie. Fresh meat for tea- better than the corned beef hash Don was planning - yeuch! </p> <p>Little Don hasn't even shaved this trip so he is a proper 'minger'.</p> <p>Sailing By.<br> From<br> Lakota </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/05/byebye-lossie-6062336/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/05/byebye-lossie-6062336/Tue, 05 May 2009 12:39:57 +0200 <p>I find it hard to remember what I have written and what I have forgotten!</p> <p>1 When Little Don made breakfast the other day I forgot to mention how good it was. I know, surprising but true. He made us eggy bread and sausages etc. It was very unhealthy but very tasty. He did a grand job. </p> <p>2 Today when the sea was at it worst but the sails were up and we were getting up to 6.2 knots. Lindsay decided he was tired and would go for a little nap - two hours later he appeared thinking he had had his head down for fifteen minutes. Now we know why he is called 'pillow head'!</p> <p>3 Last night I was so warm in my bed that I had to open up my sleeping bad to let some air in. It couln't be anything to do with still wearing three layers and two pairs of socks in bed! I was as warm as toast. May try taking one layer off tonight!<br> Shower tomorrow for the first time in three days!!!! The boys have already showered tonight so they smell fresh. The same cannot be said for me! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/04/things-i-forgot-6059412/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/04/things-i-forgot-6059412/Mon, 04 May 2009 21:55:38 +0200 <p>Good Evening from Lossiemouth</p> <p>What a day we have had! </p> <p>When we woke in Helmsdale this morning (from 6am onwards) it was blowing a hooley and the forecast wasn't looking hopeful for the day ahead. Don decided that we should have a leisurly breakfast and then once we had cleaned up and sorted ourselves out we would take a look at the weather again. As the morning wore on - after bacon softies and huge flasks of tea we all got ourselves kitted out in the varying layers of clothing, from the very inside to out it was up to a maximum of six layers! We all looked like Michelan men by the time we were ready. By ten twenty we had let the ropes go, the decision had been made, we were heading for Lossie! By ten thirty the sails were up and we were skipping along. It was lumpy and very exciting! We took the head sail down for a while and motored with the main sail up, with just two reefs. This stabalised the boat in the heavy seas. </p> <p>We sailed/motored for a couple of hours and then the conditions were slightly better and the head sail was hoisted again. We managed to sail for over three hours with both sails at full whack! (Not a nautical term). It was brilliant sailing. This little boat sits in the water beautifully. She doesn't take on water when she hits big waves and she feels very comfortable even in heavy seas. I am well impressed by her (and by Donnie's sailing skills).</p> <p>Something funny happened yesterday - wasn't going to publish it but the more I think of it the funnier it gets. Mind you, I am on my second (plastic) glass of wine so it may seem funnier! </p> <p>I had to pay a visit to the Head (nautical term) in the afternoon and if you can imagine (not a pretty sight) me wearing four layers on top and three layers on the bottom it isn't easy to squeeze in to a small cubicle (now renamed the phone box as it is the best place to get mobile phone reception) and do the necessary. Anyway, I had finished what I had to do and was trying to pull my clothes together, in the right order, when the boat swung round and I clattered against the door, it opened, I fell out, banging my right arm in the process on the edge of the door. Oh the pain! It was really sore! Not only that but I hadn't managed to get all of my layers sorted out so I was half in and half out of my layers lying against the door of the head wondering what on earth was going on. It surely must have been a massive lump of sea or some other emergency!! No such luck! My big brother had lost his hat over the side and the guys forgot about me and immediately turned the boat around to retreive the hat!!! They didnt't even have the decency to shout 'Coming about'! Anyway, I am glad to say all is well that ends well. Alec has a hat that has salt stains on it and I have a bruise on my right arm worthy of a good story!!</p> <p>What is a trip like this without a few laughs - at my expense!</p> <p>I have to go now. Little Don is breaking out the bond!<br> Sailing by.<br> Lakota Crew</p> <p>PS - Thanks to Irene and Stella and Eileen for visiting us tonight. I was great to see them.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/04/040509-ahoy-from-lossiemouth-6059338/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/04/040509-ahoy-from-lossiemouth-6059338/Mon, 04 May 2009 21:43:09 +0200 <p>Oh well, it was never going to be hot and sunny today - we all know that May day is a great day to stay indoors to watch TV! We are staying indoors but we don't have a telly.</p> <p>The weather is bad and we won't be leaving Helmsdale any time soon. It may clear later this morning but right now the waves are huge and the rain is pelting down.</p> <p>Off to make bacon sandwiches.<br> speak later.<br> From a very stormy Helmsdale.<br> Lakota </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/04/may-day-holiday-6055013/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/04/may-day-holiday-6055013/Mon, 04 May 2009 08:20:04 +0200 <p>What a day! We got off to a great start but by the time we were South of Helmsdale after sailing for a while we had to take the sails down because the weather came up and it was a hard South Westerly wind blowing right in our nose! I hear you say, how unusual! No, not all of you. I know that you know that is the only weather Little Don can/can't sail in! Anyway, we battled on all the way to Little Ferry (South of Golspie) and we could see straight away we didn't have a cat in hells chance of getting to tie up there. After a little debate and much heavy sighing and moaning Don decided the sensible thing to do would be to sail back North to Helmsdale. We looked at each other thinking, Oh God, not back up there! Anyway, it turned out to be a brilliant idea. We set sail at half past four and sailed all the way to Helmsdale. It was absolutely fantastic! We got up to 6.2 knots which was whizzing by and felt great. I loved it! We tied up before 8pm and had dinner and a glass of white wine. We are all shattered! We had been on the sea for eleven and a half hours today. We all have rosy red cheeks, and it isn't from the wine - it is from the wind.</p> <p>Have to go and organise the sleeping arrangements. All four of us have to get a good night's kip. We are heading for Lossiemouth tomorrow and it will be another long day with some good sailing. The rest of the week won't be so good. We will be in Nairn for a day and a half if the weather does what it says it is going to - oh well, ho hum!</p> <p>Signing off (again)<br> Talk soon<br> Lakota crew </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/03/3rd-may-6052725/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/03/3rd-may-6052725/Sun, 03 May 2009 21:40:16 +0200 <p>LAKOTA UPDATE 3RD May 2009</p> <p>11:10am Motoring</p> <p>Now motoring at a steady 4.5 knots. The wind is still ‘in our neb’ but the sun is shining and the breeze is brisk. If we were travelling by car we would be going over the Ord. We can see the Ord of Caithness directly opposite. </p> <p>“Oh come all ye people from over the Ord, there’s a welcome awaiting that you can afford. Be you a pauper or be you a Lord, you will always be welcome in Caithness” </p> <p>If this trip had been planned from West to East to North to West to South the weather would have been ideal. As it is we have to catch the wind where we can. It may get better the further South we go but so far the wind direction has been against us. </p> <p>Lakota cruises under sail. She isn’t a sleek, swift wee boat but she is great for us novices! I am the only one onboard with no sailing experience but I am good at making the tea! I have been told by Don that by the end of the week, I will know how to sail. It all depends on the wind and waves, but I am picking up the jargon as I go. Don has even written the names of the halyards on the cabin. There you go, jargon already! </p> <p>Now, Don (Donnie, DONALD, Little Don, Pain in the ass) wants me to mention the price of diesel in Wick. He was not a happy sailor when asked to pay a total of £34.25 for 30 litres! Surely the price must be wrong? He had to pay 108.73 pence per litre. This is an outrage! He checked the price in Kyle, a measly 78 pence per litre, which is the average Highland Region price. 30 litres there only cost a paltry £21.24. If we had gone in to Helmsdale the deal would have been an acceptable £25.08 for 30 litres. According to Don, if we had bought white diesel in Tesco and paid the same price as at Wick Harbour he would at least have gained club card points!</p> <p>The difference between RED and White diesel is the duty paid. RED diesel has no duty. The deal is, boats use RED diesel. None commercial users of RED diesel have to pay a percentage of duty.<br> (This is obviously the opinion of Donald and is open for discussion)</p> <p>11:35 – Weather update – Bl**dy Hailstones!! It is getting more like an arctic expedition by the minute! </p> <p>11:45/12 Noon – Sun out, main sail up! As predictable as the weather! </p> <p>We are heading for Golspie for the night. We should tie up late this afternoon. Don is going to cook lunch as we motor. It will be a gourmet meal, no doubt!</p> <p>Signing off.<br> Lakota Crew<br> Sailing by</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/03/03-may-2009-2nd-update-6052721/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/03/03-may-2009-2nd-update-6052721/Sun, 03 May 2009 21:38:56 +0200 <p>Good Morning Sailors</p> <p>We had a very eventful day yesterday. Simon and I left Dunbeath at 8am heading for Gills Bay (Near John O'Groats) to pick up my oldest brother, Alec and my nephew-in-law, Lindsay. They arrived at 9:15am on a bonny sunny morning - ten minutes down the road towards Wick and the heavens opened. The rain just wasn't taking time to fall! It was horrible!</p> <p>We arrived in Wick where it was dreigh and miserable. Great Sailing weather. We unloaded all of our gear (Don was pretty horrified at how much stuff we had!) and we were keen to go. David, my other nephew had arrived in Dunbeath to catch a bus to Wick but as Simon (on his way to Aberdeen) arrived at Mum and Dads at the same time as David he turned around and came back to Wick.. Life as we know it............</p> <p>When we were hanging around for the weather to clear a bit Don's daughter who is only six weeks away from giving birth climbed down the ladder and came onboard. Her mother would have been having kittens! We chatted for a while and by half past twelve we were ready to sail. We let go the ropes and the voyage began. We had to motor for the first couple of hours because it was pretty rough! We did manage to get the main sail up by about three o'clock and the head sail up a few minutes later. We had some good wind and headed out toward the Beatrice field so that we could get a good line to tack back towards Dunbeath. The wind was gusting and falling off a lot so we didn't get the tack we wanted and ended up just about level with Lybster. We then started the engines and motored in to Dunbeath. The sea was pretty lumpy but we all enjoyed it. </p> <p>Tied up in Dunbeath about half past five and after making (heating) dinner we headed up to a nice warm bed at Mum and Dads. Don and Lindsay stayed onboard. Alec an me had nice warm beds!! Oldest son, daughter, fair deal, I say!</p> <p>Lindsay came up with Dad's car and we headed back to the Lakota about quarter past eight. We let go the ropes at twenty five to nine and we are now sailing (with the engines running because the laptop needs an internet connection for me to be doing this. I have to go now because Don wants to stop the engines as the wind is North West 15knots and it is ideal for sailing.</p> <p>Sailing by.<br> Speak soon<br> From Lakota </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/03/st-day-over-2nd-day-underway-6048965/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/03/st-day-over-2nd-day-underway-6048965/Sun, 03 May 2009 08:57:03 +0200 <p>Good Afternoon </p> <p>A quick update from onboard the Lakota.</p> <p>It is raining and the sea would be too choppy to go sailing today so thank goodness we always planned on going tomorrow!</p> <p>I have been onboard with my brother for a couple of hours, so I now know how the engine work (to a fashion), how the toilet works (A necessity), where everything is stored (need to know where to find the bond - nautical term for the booze) and finally how the cooker works! It is small but perfectly well organised. I am very impressed with the amount of space we have. I wish we were going today!</p> <p>-I have about fourteen layers on and Don made me try on my sister-in-laws wet weather gear. It fits on top of all fourteen layers so I am going to be toasty and dry</p> <p>The engine is running, and is very quiet, which I didn't expect. I thought it would be clunky and smelly and noisy. </p> <p>Lakoa is a MacWester26 - this just means that she is 26ft long. Seems little compared to the yacht moored ahead of us but onboard she is pretty spacious.</p> <p>I have to go and make sandwiches for lunch. I have to practice moving around in the small space available.</p> <p>Signing off.<br> Speak soon.<br> Christa<br> Officially Lakota Crew </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/01/tied-to-the-quay-in-wick-6040293/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/05/01/tied-to-the-quay-in-wick-6040293/Fri, 01 May 2009 12:54:42 +0200 <p>Well,it seems that the main project was to get to Wick. Come Hell or High Water! They over came both! They had a great time sailing, once they were an hour and a half out of Plockton they did some great sailing and enjoyed the feel of Lakota under sail for some time. After that, the weather was against them and they had to motor for much of the trip until they arrived in Scrabster about 1am on Tuesday 28th April. They had a few hours sleep and by 6am they (Lilttle Don) were ready to get out in to the sea and head for Wick. The tide was with them and they made good time to Noss Head where they could get the main sail up and enjoy the actual feel of sailing in to Wick. </p> <p>To arrive in Wick by 12 noon was a much earlier than they were expected. It was great to think that they had achieved the first leg of the journey without too many worries.</p> <p>Dad and Big Don, managed to go to Wick to take a look at the Lakota. Big Don went onboard but Dad will need a more stable path before he considers setting foot onboard the Lakota.</p> <p>So far it as been a very intense trip. The 'boys' have been keen to get up the West, along the North and partially down the East to Wick. They have done a great job and I just long for the day that I get my feet ondeck and become part of this adventure.</p> <p>Sailing By<br> C<br> xx </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/04/28/the-way-to-wick-6025678/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/04/28/the-way-to-wick-6025678/Tue, 28 Apr 2009 21:35:22 +0200 <p>Well, the bold lads were in Scrabster from 1am until 6am. Strong tides helped them sail in to Wick.<br> Update later.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/04/28/pentland-firth-progress-6022595/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/04/28/pentland-firth-progress-6022595/Tue, 28 Apr 2009 13:23:18 +0200 <p>Well, no idea how they have managed it but they tied up in Wick at 12 noon. </p> <p>I will have to get an update from the skipper, tonight, and fill in the blanks on this blog.</p> <p>What will they do for three days? We won't sail from Wick until mid-day Saturday so I hope that they are 'swabbing' the decks.</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/04/28/the-eagle-has-landed-6022534/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/04/28/the-eagle-has-landed-6022534/Tue, 28 Apr 2009 13:13:43 +0200 <p>Message from Lakota 12:47 Monday 27th April - They have passed Cape Wrath and are halfway to Strathy Point. This is the most arduous part of the trip. The tides are strong and the wind is head on. It will make for interesting sailing! The going has been good, and fast! The photos show the lumpy sea and the fabulous sunset. We won't see that on the East coast. </p> <p>The three sailors from left to right - Alan Cairns, David Sutherland and Little Don. </p> <p>Wish I was there! 'Sailing by'</p> <p>Signing off.<br> CNG</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/04/27/round-the-bend-6016924/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/04/27/round-the-bend-6016924/Mon, 27 Apr 2009 14:27:04 +0200 <p>LAKOTA - Little Don's 50th Year trip of a lifetime</p> <p>The day has finally arrived! The Lakota is ready. Little Don and Alan Cairns are ready to go. Problem? Yes, Dave hasn't arrived. Has he slept in, does he have a hangover and won't arrive at all? Good questions. But no, neither of the above applies. He is just totally useless at reading a timetable! He was supposed to arrive in Plockton at 11am. He was two hours late! Classic Dave, well done! Anyway, all's well that ends well, they eventually let go the ropes at 2:30pm. Don't have any details on the first six hours but at half past eight tonight Don phoned to say they were off of Rona and they had 15 to 20 knot winds prevailing and had sailed all the way so far. They plan on sailing through the night as Dad predicts that they will be at Cape Wrath by tomorrow afternoon. The time may not be accurate at this time but I will update the blog as I get information.</p> <p>Alec phoned earlier saying that he had phoned Don earlier to ask if he was ready for the big adventure. He didn't know that the trip had been pulled forward a day and that the guys were already sailing North. </p> <p>I spent yesterday buying stores and then cooking chilli and rice and chicken and vegetables. Now all frozen along with boiled potatoes ready for the trip to Caithness next week. It will keep us going for the first couple of days at least. I have enough stores to feed us for a month but I have asked Alec to get eggs and Orkney fudge! </p> <p>I will update what I get from the intrepid sailors tomorrow. It is now getting really close, and very exciting.</p> <p>We will soon be sailing the East coast.</p> <p>More tomorrow.<br> Signing out.</p> <p>CNG </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/04/26/lakota-trip-west-to-north-to-east-to-west-6013133/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://cng710.blog.co.uk/2009/04/26/lakota-trip-west-to-north-to-east-to-west-6013133/Sun, 26 Apr 2009 21:43:10 +0200