On the Nose

An early rise and the fog had cleared with just some mist and low cloud. The forecast was for some fog patches but for now Scarborough was clear to the horizon. Creeping past the lighthouse [keep left] just after low water we just touched bottom (1.8m-2.0m) but only for a moment before making the turn to the north. There was a good breeze but as expected it was right on the nose, the swell had eased somewhat and the sea state was moderate. To sail we would have to tack which would mean arriving too late for Hartlepool so on went the engine again punching through the waves.

As we passed Robin Hood's Bay, well that's what it said on the chart, the fog started to envelope us. Visibility went from half a mile to a few boat lengths and so we implented our escape plan of turning for Whitby. Safely around the rocks we passed the haunting clang of the cardinal buoy before making the turn for the harbour sounding our fog signal to add to those of the fishing boats returning around us. We didn't have long to wait for the bridge and were soon moored up with the kettle on. Fish and chips tonight then!?

Moored further up river than the usual visitor moorings we were pleased of the neap tide as touching bottom would be a distinct possibility at springs. There is a lot of pollution at this end of the river from the surrounding industry. However, it didn't seem to bother the local gig crews of varying age groups rowing up and down [the traditional gigs were once used for towing the big tall ships up river].

The weather is still not being very kind to us so our next stop should be Blyth where we may have to hole up for a few days if the forecast is to be believed.