Beating Into Large Seas at Ardnamurchan | 14 Hours, 30+ Knot Winds & a Leaking Boat

This week’s episode takes us from the Isle of Harris back to the mainland, calling first into Shieldaig near Gairloch before heading to Plockton. After a quiet night there, we set off at 6am for a day sail south — timing our departure carefully to catch the tides at Kyle Rhea, where currents can run up to 9 knots against you if you get it wrong. The forecast warned of rough Atlantic weather sweeping in, and it quickly lived up to its promise. What began as a lively sail with 20+ knots of wind soon turned into something tougher. As we closed in on Ardnamurchan Point, seas grew over 2 metres with waves coming from two directions, winds gusted 30–35 knots, and everything started to go wrong: Mast leaks & chain plates dripping below deck Guard rail coming undone Boat hook nearly lost overboard Headsail sheet tangled & tender almost pulled away Bow burying under confused seas After 12+ exhausting hours at sea, we finally turned on the engine to punch into the big waves and push round the point into shelter. 14 hours later, battered and wet but safe, we tied back up in Plockton — very ready for rest (and a well-earned curry!). Next stop: back to Oban to collect Matt’s dad before continuing south — with the Mediterranean in our sights for winter. ⛵ Highlights: Leaving the Isle of Harris for Shieldaig & Plockton Navigating Kyle Rhea’s fierce tides 2m+ seas & 30–35 knot winds at Ardnamurchan Point Gear failures & leaks in heavy weather 14 hours at sea — arriving exhausted but safe Planning ahead for our Mediterranean escape We hope you enjoyed the video guys! See you on the next one :) Matt, Paige & Lancer