Once out of Donegal Bay and heading North we were on a reach, and our rapid progress continued. However, by lunchtime the wind was dropping, and we hoisted the main as well. We had decided to go round the top of Aran rather than through South Sound (advice from Kim of Samphire), but once we got into Aran's wind shadow progress was slow and we wished we had brtaved the shallows of the South entrance. We eventually anchored in Aran Roads at ten to five.
We had a run ashore for a couple of beers and a look around. It is an attractive enough place, but full of holidaymakers – particulary kids in wetsuits, swimming and jumping off the piers. We tried to ignore the holidaymaking hordes and enjoy the stunning scenery, enhanced by the appearance of a fleet of traditionally built local sailing craft apparently racing for fun.
We decided we deserved a meal out but nowhere took credit cards and we were almost out of money. Eating out in Aranmore is very downmarket – chips with everything. We went back to the boat for a tin of chicken curry with extras.
|
