Wednesday 12 September 2012 – Puilladobhrain to Bellanoch (Crinan Canal)

The wind and sea state seemed much better then yesterday, so we had our first early start of the trip to get through the tidal gates of the Sound of Luing and the Dorus Mor.  We meant to start at 6, but eventually made 6:30, by which time it was easily light enough.  After getting clear of the anchorage we motored as far as Isle Insh, by which time we could make adequate speed under sail with the wind from W or NW.  We did not seem to get much tidal assistance through the Sound of Luing and by the time we came to the Dorus Mor (which means Big Door) we were against about 2 knots of tide.  After entering the canal we stopped at the “bird hide” near Bellanoch.  In the afternoon we biked to the place where the beavers have been re-introduced.  No luck with seeing them, but we were advised that the best time is about dusk.  So we returned later but still did not see anything.  The cycling made a welcome change from sitting around on the boat.

Follow the track on Google Maps.

Morning sky shortly after leaving

In the sea lock at Crinan

Toytown swing bridge.
The bridge keeper turns a handle to open it

View over the river Add and Moine Mhor

The hill in the middle of the marsh is Dunadd,
ancient capital of the Dalriadan kings

Moored by the bird hide

The Beavers’ dam

Lake made by the beavers’ dam