On Coll we met the crews of two high speed launches which were playing
the part of ‘terrorists’ for the multinational naval exercise taking
place off the west coast of Scotland. Shortly after they set off for the
day’s manoeuvres we too left, sailing N up the deserted north-east coast
of Coll to Sorisdale Bay, and on past the Cairns of Coll to Muck.
Arriving at mid-tide, many of the drying reefs were covered, so we were
careful to identify the leading line for a safe approach to Gallanach
Bay and anchored well inshore. It was a very peaceful and attractive
spot, with panoramic views of hills and mountains on Skye, Rum, Eigg and
the mainland. We left in the morning with the forecast of a rising gale,
motored across to Galmisdale on Eigg to recharge the batteries, then
sailed double-reefed over to Arisaig to complete the week’s circuit with
Jim and Linda.