Mr Blue Sky beating to windward.
We knew it was important to arrive at Paimpol +- 1hr high water as the approach dried to 5.5m above chart datum, so we required the 8m of neap tide to prevent grounding.
We also had to leave Tréguier no later than -1hr low water as the flood running against would make the slipping of lines and leaving the pontoon impossible.
Hendrix motor sailing
At 09.00h we left Tréguier as planned, motored down the river into the estuary, even had a short sail until the wind died, but most importantly we were on target for arrival just before HW Tréguier 14.15h.
Navigating the tricky deep channel out of Tréguier
On the final approach rounding the wave screen we noted the lock gate was closed, a call was made on VHF CH9 to the lock master who informed us of a 10 minute wait - so we circled.
Hendrix increased the size of his circle until he strayed out of the deep water channel, you guessed it he ground to a halt. The crew of Mr Blue Sky enquiried whether he was beached, to his reply; "I'm beached broo - beached as" Mr Blue Sky... " you're beached broo, beached as!!
You’re beached broo?
Tow rope deployed and Hendrix tugged unceremoniously back to the channel by Mr Blue Sky
Just before the lock at LW, if you look closely you can just see Hendrix skid mark left of the white bouy.
Hendrix & Mr Blue Sky tied up in Painpol Harbour
Reflecting
Sun set at 23.00h
After that we negotiated the lock and found a suitable berth dock side in the picturesque harbour centre, lotus grill fired up and cork popped.
Excitement was all too much
Painpol is a shoppers dream, everything to keep a girl amused for hours - but that's enough about that.
Finaly before we leave Paimpol, if you can't beat them join them.
Skipper sporting a Breton hat
Time to catch the tide back to Sain Cast.