With a large swell in the bay and 'Selene' still ranging alongside the quay, the Harbour Master Jim Brown advised not to sail and after calling Peterhead for their local weather forcast the sailing was aborted.
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| Stonehaven |
Another vessel on the adjacent quay 'Montiverdi' a 20 ton motor cruiser from Hartlepool with her mooring lines had pulled out her stern samson post from the deck due to the violent motion while alongside. A local fisherman seeing how 'Selene' was reacting to the harbour swell offered additional heavy round fenders which were very much appreciated.
Robin going ashore in the very wet conditions slipped as he entered the local cafe and aggravated a previous injury to his left ankle. He was taken to the local hospital by the Harbour Master's son James where they advised X-ray at the Aberdeen hospital. It was decided Robin could no longer continue the voyage and his gear was packed and James took him to the main hospital. I am now single handed.
Stonehaven - Monday 9th May 2011 - Day 7
An early rise 05.30 to check the swell within the bay and after discussions with the Harbour Master and skipper of 'Montiverdi' it was decided to sail with the motor cruiser shadowing me so far up the coast.
Left at 07.00 and rigged 2 reefs in the main and hoisted the No.2 jib with a preventer on the boom to stop an unexpected gybe as we rolled our way north in the swell. By 10.00 were 2.5 miles off Girdle Ness and commenced the passage across Aberdeen bay where 14 ships lay at anchor, each one was identified on the AIS which was very assuring. By 13.00 were on the approach to Peterhead and 2 miles out called port control who gave instructions on how to enter the marina and advised to call back 5 minutes before passing through the main pier entrance which seemed a strange request for a yacht. At 14.00 alongside the marina pontoon and I had completed my first 30 miles single handed voyage.
It was a 20 minute walk to the town centre with a very welcoming Weatherspoons for a good meal and beer.
Peterhead - Tuesday 10th May - Day 8
Decided to sort out a few problems while in Peterhead. My netbook to communicate with everyone was not working so a friendly computer shop were asked to assist and eventually found the dongle was at fault and a new one purchased. While now able to send/receive emails, the blog site which was supposed to be set up was not working.
The yacht engine start key had been bent and new ones were made but would not work when tested. Andy Miller my back up and mentor in Blyth was contacted who would try to get new/used keys to me.
Opportunity was taken to use the near by caravan park laundry facilities. Marina manager drove me to exchange gas bottle and fill up the spare fuel containers. A satisfying day.
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