Solo Sail to Belfast: No Crew, Strong Wind, Awkward Docking

A short solo trip under engine from Bangor Marina to Belfast Marina — wind on the nose all the way, and not a single crew member available (long story). After getting clearance from Belfast VTS, I made my way into the marina… where the real fun began. The harbour master assigned me a spot rafted alongside Ocean Dreams, a massive catamaran. With the wind pushing me in and very little room to manoeuvre, docking got a bit... spicy. Luckily, he was there to catch my lines. All this solo sailing effort? Just to join my workmates on a food and drink tour through Belfast, courtesy of Taste and Tour. Was it worth the stress? Absolutely. Music at the end: Black Velvet Band by Sláinte https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Slinte/Slinte_Mohr/slinte_-_03_-_black_velvet_band/ Belfast Test and Tour https://tasteandtour.co.uk/ 00:00 Start 00:10 Why this trip 02:11 Approaching the Victoria Channel 03:24 Requesting permission on the radio 05:15 The flag (the Red Duster) 06:03 Entering port — chased by the ferry and a cargo ship 06:47 The crew's excuses! 08:34 Starting the docking manoeuvre 09:58 The disastrous docking! 10:38 Damage report: just a shoe! 12:00 Belfast Taste & Tour