For many sailors, reaching the Scilly Isles is a lifelong ambition. Recently, our very own Steve and Jeanette Adams—along with their beloved Jack Russell terrier, Pippa—finally achieved their dream, sailing their boat all the way from Fleetwood down to the magical archipelago off the Cornish coast.
Their strategy for the voyage was sensible and relaxed: sail down in easy stages, stick to short passages of no more than eight hours, and enjoy the comforts of marina stops along the way. Thanks to Steve’s updates sent back to the club via WhatsApp, we were able to follow their incredible progress.
A Welsh Welcome in Porthmadog
The journey truly hit its stride in late June with a lovely stay in Porthmadog. Moored on the Madoc Yacht Club visitors’ pontoon, the crew enjoyed fantastic weather and a welcoming atmosphere. Taking advantage of the town’s excellent shops and a highly recommended Indian restaurant, they recharged before their next major leg.
Lumpy Seas and 3 AM Emergencies
On June 29th, the crew set sail for the old harbour in Fishguard. As any seasoned sailor knows, it’s not always plain sailing! The first half of the passage featured a very lumpy sea, which left poor Pippa feeling rather stressed out. Thankfully, as the sea smoothed, appetites returned.
They anchored just inside Fishguard’s old harbour, allowing the boat to dry out. However, the glamorous cruising lifestyle was quickly interrupted. At 3:00 am, Steve found himself underneath the boat unblocking the holding tank—proving once again that the skipper always gets the best jobs! Spirits were soon lifted, though, when their friend Graeme bought fresh crabs straight off a local fishing boat, kindly cooking and dressing them for a brilliant onboard feast.
Historic Encounters in Pembrokeshire
Leaving Fishguard on July 2nd, they navigated through Ramsey Sound and Jack Sound at either end of St Bride’s Bay, making their way to Hobbs Point in Milford Haven. The Pembroke Haven Yacht Club made them feel incredibly welcome.
While exploring Dale, Steve had a fascinating encounter with the Brioc—a replica of a 10th-century medieval Celtic boat crafted from wood, linen sails, and leather. The crew of the historic vessel were thoroughly impressed by Steve’s knowledge of the famous Brendan expedition!
After a quick stop in Milford Haven Marina for spares and a pint in a 15th-century fisherman’s pub, they spent their final night in the area anchored in Castle Bay. This spot held a special significance, as it was detailed in a sailing book given to Steve by his father just before the voyage.
Southward to Padstow
On July 7th, the boat departed the Welsh coast for Lundy Island off North Devon. Steve described it as a beautiful island with a uniquely special feel and fantastic food.
Continuing south, they arrived in Padstow on July 8th. After initially anchoring, they moved into the harbour on the tide, rafting up on the North Quay. The weather had turned absolutely “scorchio,” and the crew enjoyed a well-deserved rest, catching up with friends and fellow club members over the phone.
Arrival at the Scillies
After working their way down the coast, the crew finally made the crossing to their ultimate destination: the Scilly Isles. They arrived to wonderful, glorious weather, and Steve reports that the islands absolutely lived up to their reputation as a magical place to visit.
Well, Steve and Jeanette, we loved following the updates, the photos, and the occasional 3 am mishaps. From everyone back at the club, a huge congratulations to you both, and Pippa, of course, for making the voyage safely and truly “living the dream.”
