After completing the three-day passage through the Caledonia Canal, our first port of call was Dunstaffnage Bay, Oban.  While the rain and light winds continued, our spirits were lifted by sharing the ritual of Cocktail Hour with the kids.  We introduced them to cold ginger beer with generous wedges of lime upon arrival in Oban.

Our arrival in Oban was perfectly timed to allow our trusty crew, Rona, to meet up with us.  Rona is joining us onboard Laridae for the first portion of the trip.  She is an experienced sailor (one of the kids sailing instructors at ASYC), amazing with children, and a true pleasure to have join as a member of the family.  She is teaching us something new every day, and hopefully she is receiving a fun experience in return!

Introducing the young crew to the ritual of Cocktail Hour with the standard drink of ginger beer with a squeeze of lime.

Our brave shipmate Rona at the helm of Laridae.

With the arrival of Rona, the rain subsided and the sun returned with a perfect beam reach in 10-20 knot winds during the 60 mile passage from Oban to Gigha Island.  We picked up a mooring ball at about 5 PM and immediately launched the dinghy to explore the clear waters and sandy beaches.  Basking in the warm sun, the kids explored the shallows and tide pools until we begrudgingly forced them back into the dinghy to return for dinner and bed.  We had an early morning in front of us for another 70 mile day to Bangor (Northern Ireland) the next morning.

View of the Gigha Island pontoon and mooring field on a perfect summer day.

Enjoying the rare sun and warmth of a fine Scottish summer day.

Seeking crabs from the safety of the dock.

Searching through the clear waters.

Get the goods while they last!

Enjoying a nice boost from the current through the Sound of Jura.