June 11 Sea of Inspiration

We take to the water for different reasons, Some for ego and challenge, others for fun, some for work and wages, the broken for escape, some for the total focus the sea demands which provides a distraction from difficulty. Today I met a inspirational young man, Oliver Rofix. He was diagnosed with a rare leukemia. During his illness and with all his savings he bought a Valiant 18 and restored her to immaculate perfection. She and his love of sailing helped him during what must have been a challenging time. He is now sailing single-handed around Britain in order to raise awareness for the Anthony Nolan charity which helps with bone marrow donations for those in need. The sea helped Oliver and now he needs our help. If anyone cares to donate, or knows of sponsors his website is http://www.olivers-travels.co.uk/.

We set off after chatting with Olly to Tobermory.  We sailed out into the Firth of Lorne and torwards the Sound of Mull. Inspiring landscapes and water which Olly is able to enjoy in his beautiful little boat.

Entrance from Oban Bay into the Firth of Lorne

The Firth of Lorne

Views torwards the Morvern Penninsula

Wind and tide were against us and doubled our journey time but the sun was shining and the scenery beautiful so it mattered little. Tobermory was worth the time taken. It is a pretty town with brightly cottages lining a fishing harbour full of boats. It was a harbour planned and built by the British Fisheries Society in 1788. It has a cheerful feel to it. The harbour is well equipped for visiting yachts with moorings, good anchorage and walk-ashore pontoons. Plenty of restaurants and pubs line the harbour. A must visit Pub is the Mishnish. There is a distillery which can be visited but typical it is closed on Sunday so alas no visit for Rummy's thirsty crew.

Tobermory

Tobermory

The most we will see of the Distillery