In the end (see Ad Lib 124) Stargazer makes her landfall before sunset. Securing beside Alexia Barrier's Ultim IDEC Sport. Freshly relaunched after a pre Route du Rhum refit.
Dawn was a fiery glow below the horizon. When we left Loctudy, with the fishing fleet.
The cruising chute is swiftly deployed, to harness a promising easterly breeze.
As Stargazer slaloms the craggy pinnacles which stud our shortest route.
To the Pointe de Penmarc'h.
Whose troupe of playful and acrobatic dolphins circle and leap. After a few futile attempts at photography, Stargazer's skipper resolves to sit back and enjoy their company.
The twin towers, guardians of Penmarc’h, dwindle astern. Until they are mere matchsticks on the horizon. An unexpected eddy, of fair tide, carrying us deep into Audierne bay.
Stargazer is over two hours ahead of schedule, as she approaches her skipper's decision point.
We press on through the Raz de Sein. With several hours of foul tide to push (because our early arrival) in this notoriously fast flowing strait. Stargazer's ground speed drops below two knots.
Inch by inch Stargazer ekes her way through. Finally bringing La Vieille abeam. Slowly gathering way once more. Dragging herself free from the aquatic quagmire.
We are back up to full cruising speed, as we close the wave pierced, multi-coloured cliffs, of the Crozon.
The wind now on our port quarter, having backed south westerly. Stargazer threads her way through. . . .
. . . .the Toulinguet gap. Gateway to the Rade de Brest.
With the beaches of Moulin Blanc at its head.
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