The Craic was 90 in the Isle of Man
Here are most of the photos from July 2015, when ZIG ZAG left Carlingford marina, on the early morning ebb tide, bound for Peel, Isle of Man.
A 12 hour pleasant crossing saw us arrive at Peel at 5.30 pm, and we tied up at the outer pier, awaiting the flood tide to enter Peel Marina.
Two great days were spent exploring the IOM, calling in at Douglas and Port Erin. It was very sad to see the Port Erin Marine Biology Station closed down and in such a dilapidated condition. This is where Skipper of ZZ did his Honours year, with Liverpool University in 1983. How sad to see such a great establishment (set up in 1892) in ruins due to shortsighted money mismanagement from Tory government driven University funding cuts.
Peel is a very quaint, friendly place with many a fine watering hole, a warm, welcoming people, and plenty to see and do. A very accommodating harbourmaster, and free use of the Peel Sailing Club facilities on the promenade made for a brilliant stay. Bought Manx kippers here from the dockside smokehouse - brilliant. Nugget made many new friends whilst in Peel.....
The early morning trip back turned into a lobster pot watch until daylight broke through, and we did not get a proper sail until we were 5 hours out of Peel. The last 2 and a half hours back to Carlingford gave us a great sail, up to 6.3 knots with a NW wind meaning sails needed minimal trimming. Plenty of bird life, but only two porpoise fins to report.
Thanks to ZZ crew of Damian McCartan ( i/c of maintenance, electrics and common sense) and Paul 'Nugget' McNulty ( i/c of stores, liquid refreshments and furtive herbal remedies )
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