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
Living With The Tide
⛵ Living with the Tide ⛵ Video's fortnightly on Thursday UTC 1800hrs Welcome aboard our captivating journey! Meet Matt, Paige, & Lancer as we restore our cherished yacht, Morna, to her former glory. Sail with us on thrilling coastal adventures, immerse yourself in maritime stories, and explore sustainable seas. Join our maritime community for the magic of Morna! 🔧 About Us: "Living with the Tide" is your window into the meticulous restoration of Morna, guided by Matt's craftsmanship and Paige's discerning eye. 📣 Stay Connected: Connect with us on social media for exclusive content, live discussions, and sharing your maritime stories. Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/livingwiththetide2017 Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/livingwiththetide/ 🙏 Thank You: Be part of our extraordinary journey—Matt, Paige and Lancer. Together, we'll honour Morna's legacy and celebrate the timeless spirit of living with the tide.
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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
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