Mark Rosenthal

FlairIV launched at Porth Penrhyn in F4-F5 north north wester winds. We motor sailed NE along the Menai Strait and through Puffin Sound where the sea state got rough. Engine off as we sailed NW to Trwyn Dimnor before tacking to clear the shallows. Once on a suitable bearing to Point Lynas we tacked and put in one reef, passing a number of ships waiting for access to Liverpool Docks. To pass Point Lynas we had to put in another two tacks standing off to a lay line to Middle Mouse. Here the sea state started to quieten down although we were still seeing wind speeds of up to 25kt in the gusts. Gannet were flying around diving on the tidal currents over the rocks along with guillimots flying low and level through the choppy seas. our track ran very close to the coast through between .Middle Mouse and the coast being carried by the current. Another tack was necessary to pass Harry Furlong mark then we had a clear leg straight to Carmel Head. Rounding Carmel Head was relatively carm at an hour before the tide turned and with the wind moderating we removed the reef and sailed directly to the New Harbour entrance, checking for port traffic on Channel 14. once in the shelter of the breakwater the engine was started main sail dropped and jib furled away to motor to our swinging mooring where we were met by the Holyhead Launch.