Day 08 Sunday 24th Jura Hotel to Port Askaig and back to Lochgilphead by Ian Bell
The timing of the tide made for a sensible start on water at 10 to catch the last of the ebb tide south to the end of the island. This we did with good assistance from the tide. We then spent some time considering landing on one of the outlying islands for eleven-is. After the usual debate about the quality of the landing and midge potential, we paddle into the bay on the south corner of the island to a better sandy beach. With the wind being mainly from south / southeast, it meant a surf landing and exit from the beach.
This beach was directly in front of Jura house, the local manor house and obviously their private haven, judging by the facilities that were there. A fire pit, barbecue, and a covered open seating area, including a bar and beach tables. No one was around, so we had a short break while we waited for the turn of the tide, so we could take the young flood up the sound of Islay back to Port Askaig and spend some time there before catching the evening ferry back to the mainland and driving to Lochgilphead to find a campsite for the night.
Once back on water, we had a free ride on the tide past the rocks and a small outlying island where we had seen the deer swimming on the first day.
As we approached the port of Askaig, we used the light mark as a reference point to ensure we were not swept past the landing point and set a parabolic course across the channel to avoid any hard ferry glide at the end. As we did this, we kept an eye out for any other traffic but had no issues. As the group passed the moored Lifeboat, we turned into the fish harbour and landed on the small beach.
Having landed, boats were first lifted clear of water as the tide was rising. Then up onto the parking area at the top of the ramp. Once all were up, Keith and a couple of us went and retrieved the trolleys from the tree they had been left chained to for over a week before. Once that was done, the boats were fastened to the trolley and were ready for the evening ferry. The group then got changed out of their paddling attire and made plans to fill the few hours until the evening sailing. For most, this involved a drink in a pub or a visit to the small shop across the road. Both of which were being staffed by the same young man who had to keep running between the venues as customers came and went. I think he was also checking people into hotels and serving fuel at the petrol station 1 door down.
Some spent time watching the local ferry that links Islay and Jura, demonstrating how to do proper ferry glides. Others talked of walking to a Distillery but decided it was not worth it. Others chilled and watched the activity around the port.
Before long, our boarding time arrived. We were directed to board first. Once on board, seats were secured in the dining area and meals ordered and eaten. The trip back seemed quicker than the outward journey, and before long, we were leaving the ferry and loading kayaks back on the cars. It was now 8 pm. For anyone wishing to paddle the Inner Hebrides but not wanting to do a long, exposed crossing, then trolleying your kayak on and off ferries is an easy option.
Once loaded, we drove to try and find a campsite that would still take tents. The only one in the area that seems to do this, according to their website, was the one in Lochgilphead. As it was now past the expedition’s bedtime and with the campsite closed for the evening, we decided to wild camp on the side of the Crinnan Canal for the night. We would find camping the next day, as that would be a rest day / bad weather day. So we returned to the place “team Mercedes” had stayed on arrival, having driven up on the Friday, while others were still at work. Soon, tents were up and everyone was fast asleep.