The opportunity for an evening sail on the Clyde presented itself. A charity sail had been organised in the memory of Tom Dunn, who died recently, and also to make some money for the charities he had strongly supported (
Amazon Hope & the Vine Trust) The original plan had been to go with a couple of friends but as the temperatures dropped to 15 degrees (C) and the wind blew up to a slight breeze one of them took fright and called off.
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| The Waverley |
We were left on our own to venture out onto the open waves. It was only days after the summer solstice so we knew what to expect from a summer's evening in Inverclyde. We were right; it rained throughout and the brisk winds helped ensure that winter clothing was inadequate to the task of keeping dry. Though my friend's fears of death in the briny did not materialise hypothermia was not always inconceivable.
The boat, which had been gifted for the evening, was the
Clyde Clipper which often takes tours up and down the Clyde. It was enjoyable to see the other boats alongside, including the Waverley at Custom House and the Crown Princess which set sail for Tighnabruich at the same time that we departed.
The biting winds and sheet rain did temporarily abate after Coulport and from there until Carrick Castle the weather was fair. The armaments shed at Coulport looks menacing and reminds you just how close we are to this clear target. Following this the Arrochar Alps and the opening up of Loch Goil are amongst the greatest views in the world even on a cold driech evening. It was as well the views were good as inside had been taken over by the choir for some good, rousing hymn singing. As we had forgotten our tambourines we remained on deck in a spiritual, but damp, appreciation of nature.
Spoilt Rotten: The Toxic Cult of Sentimentality by Theodore Dalrymple
