Bottling out

The problems I had in getting the preventor rigged on on Saturday made me a lot less certain about my capability.The nurse in Shetland told me 3-6 weeks for full recovery, and I was beginning to believe 3. Now I am not so sure.  We stayed in Helmsdale on Sunday, and thought about leaving on the early tide on Monday, but a look at the forecast made us hesitate. It was not the wind speed, 4-5 knots is a good sailing breeze for Robinetta, it was the wind direction. Our tiller pilot can not cope with much in the way of swell, and with the wind from the west or south west Julian would have to helm all the way. With a minimum of 6 hours to the next safe port/anchorage this did not seem reasonable or safe.

So we are staying in Helmsdale for a while, probably not leaving until Thursday when the wind is so light we will have to motor. This is the time when my elbow injury is really annoying me. I feel fine, can move it, and carry light objects. However it will not take my weight, and is not up to prolonged use or any twisting action.

I need patience! Helmsdale has everything we need, and some very attractive walks in the area.