Day 52  (26/6/13)  Loch Aline to Port Ellen (Islay)  (70/1090nm)

Depart 0600, Arrive 1830.

Wind NW F3/4. Sun and cloud.  All by engine.   As we entered the Sound of Islay we encountered a tide of up to 3.9 knots [against us], and had to manoeuvre in the channel with great care.  Saw Bunnahabhain distillery.  As we came along the south coast we saw 3 of the ‘great 12’ distilleries – Ardbeg, Lagavulin and Laphroaig.

Day 53  (27/6/13) Port Ellen

Visited Laphroaig distillery for a tour.  Very good value at £5 – one free dram and a Laphroiag whisky glass.  Met Chris and Jan (holidaying on Islay) who kindly drove us around.  We saw several red deer and visited an ancient ruined church in the south-east of the island.  The evening was spent at the newly rebuilt Islay Hotel listening to traditional music and a fine female  soloist singing in Gallic. This was followed by a nightcap aboard Karla and Frank’s magnificent 55ft aluminium sailing boat from Kiel who were on a tour of the Western Isles.

Day 54  (28/6/13) Port Ellen

Wind NW F7 and rain. Decided to postpone the next move to Campbeltown (Mull of Kintyre) until tomorrow when the wind is forecasted to be less strong .  Excellent Fish & Chips at the Islay Hotel.  Barman Tom says the hotel may soon get a hand pump to dispense real ale from the Islay brewery.