Ste Marine to Piriac

After three nights in Ste Marine, it was time to get back on track and continue our journey south. We had anticipated leaving port first thing in the morning, filling our tanks as soon as staff arrived at the refuelling berth on the opposite shore, and then getting on our way. However, we were advised by marina staff to wait until low tide when the river would not be running so fast and the crossing would be easier, so we delayed our departure by several hours. What a mistake that was! At 8am the river was almost motionless with no breeze to disturb its calm surface, whereas at 2pm, when we made the crossing, the wind had risen and conditions proved far more challenging. It was after 3pm by the time we were ready to depart and we were in two minds as to whether to go or stay.

We decided to head out to sea and see what things were like…and we were pleasantly surprised. Although there was quite a breeze, the swell was minimal and once the wind was behind us, the going was fairly easy. The trip along the coast was also a trip down memory lane, as we recalled events and experiences from previous holidays in the area: the barbeque on the Ile de Houat, swimming in the Aven river, spotting a pod of whales nearby, and, oh yes, the time I almost drove us straight into the side of a yacht! Maybe that one is best forgotten!

As we made the final turn into Piriac, our next stop, the wind hit us full on and we had a few unpleasant minutes as we were heading into port. Once through the entrance, Zaffina was hit by another strong gust, which almost sent her careering into pontoon D – not a good idea when you’re booked onto pontoon C and your fenders are out on the other side! Frank fought with the controls and narrowly managed to avoid the collision, and it was with relief that we finally tied up in our appointed place and poured a couple of strong drinks to restore our shattered nerves.