Kayaking from Drimnin to Tobermory on a Foggy Morning
The day dawned mistier than anticipated but trusting in our optimistic weather forecasting skills we decided to go ahead with the paddle as proposed. Our small band launched from Drimnin where there is a slipway for a ferry which operates seasonally. There is very limited parking here as the space is required by lorries when the distillery is in operation and the access to the slipway also needs to be left clear. Nevertheless, this was an easy and sheltered launch spot.
We initially paddled up the coast towards Loch Sunart, taking in the scenery and wildlife – including a group of ‘porpoises with purpose’. Once we had satisfied our desire to explore we turned to make the crossing across to Calve Island at the entrance to Tobermory. However it was at just this moment that the mist decided to roll in more thickly bringing with it a band of rain. With no horizon in sight and a shipping channel between us and our destination, we decided to hedge our bets by stopping for lunch while the weather rolled through.
Post-lunch, seeing no change in the weather we reluctantly decided to paddle back down the coast and remain on the Morvern side of the Sound. As we reached our original launch spot however the clouds parted, and the sun made an appearance, tempting us into a belated crossing.
The westward crossing itself was calm and easy, with our well-prepared leader’s AIS phone device proving handy in spotting upcoming vessels. There was a small amount of tidal effect at the Southern end of Calve Island but once round into the channel this dissipated. We spent some time exploring the channel and providing entertainment for the local seal population before heading into Toberymory where our land-based support crew were ready with photography and coffee services. There is a small beach next to the pier which is accessible at low tide and provided an excellent landing spot. Sadly the icecream shop was closed – a bitter disappointment for yours truly.
The fog had lifted by the time we returned to our boats but this shifted to a stronger wind system and the journey back across turned into a somewhat more challenging proposition, not least when our well-executed ferry glide was disrupted by the Lord of the Isles bearing down on us. However all reached the safety of the harbour intact and with the satisfaction of a goal achieved. Many thanks to Adrian for his AIS system and excellent judgement.
Distance Paddled: 12.5 miles
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