After some very skillful and impressive manoeuvering by Captain Simon and all the crew, we arrived in Peel Harbour (Isle of Man) to a welcome from the local seals and visiting bikers here for the TT races! Following a short, sharp shower the sun came out, and we had a glorious afternoon ashore, exploring Peel, its castle, its fascinating winding roads and alleys and the hill which gives views of England (Cumbria), Ireland, and Scotland. Most people chose to spend a relaxing evening eating ashore and exploring the environs. We found a bargain snack of a fresh Manx kipper bap (3 kippers, no less!) for the princely sum of £3. Some of us had a very pleaseant meal at the Harbour Lights cafe, sharing a table with an Irish TT biker and a lifelong Manx resident and local trader, who entertained us with stories about the economic and social history of Ellen Vannen (the Manx name for the island), which is a "tax haven" as well as a piece of paradise. And so to bed ... for a full night's slumber (except for the lucky people doing harbour watch!). Under the watchful eye of the on looking seals.
Jenny Hogg
Aft Starboard watch