East Loch Tarbert

Our passage from Port Bannatyne started with a run down the East Kyle of Bute under a part reefed genoa. As expected we were headed after passing through the Burnt Isles so motored until we anchored for lunch in Black Farland Bay, opposite Tighnabruaich.

 Sailing between the Burnt Islands

Anchored in Black Farland Bay

Our peaceful lunch was interrupted by an unexpected bump followed by a hail, this turned out to be a visit from the Border Force, six black clad men in a fast RIB asking questions about where we had come from and our planned destination. This time it was a very cordial visit, thankfully without our visitors boarding and searching. A few minutes after departure their support vessel ‘Vigilant’ came into view.

Border Force cutter ‘Vigilant’

After lunch sails were raised for a good beat down the West Kyle with one reef in the mainsail and genoa.

Beating down the West Kyle of Bute

At 15:00 we rounded the red can lateral mark at the end of the West Kyle before turning North again towards East Loch Tarbert. The wind dropped briefly allowing us to shake the reefs out. Fifty minutes later it was gusting force 7 and with two reefs in the main and genoa, we were rushing towards Tarbert at up to 8.6 knots. By 16.30 we were moored in the marina.

Entrance to East Loch Tarbert

East Loch Tarbert Marina

We had two nights in Tarbert. A nice meal was had at the Cafe Barge moored on the town quay. In the afternoon we walked over to look at West Loch Tarbert.

The Cafe Barge

West Loch Tarbert