Moray Firth

The Moray Firth is a huge wedge of water bounded by the northeast coast of Scotland from Duncansby Head in the north, Inverness at the southwest and Rattray Head at the east. At best the conditions can be sheltered…going on to wild and challenging. Around the perimeter are a number of havens and small ports, which offer shelter but can be totally unapproachable if the winds are strong and in the wrong direction.

Commuting around these waters can be exciting— the ports are of good quality, the scenery grand and, with a bit of luck, especially around Chanonry Point, you may be joined by dolphins leaping in your wake.

An additional attraction is the access to the Caledonian Canal which has its eastern sea lock at Inverness. This remarkable feat of civil engineering, now over 200 years old, cuts right across the north of Scotland through the most spectacular scenery imaginable to take travellers to the sailing grounds of the west coast and the islands.

Down at the southeast end of the Firth there is a growing number of Sonatas based at two clubs. Invergordon Boating Club, situated in the huge natural harbour of the Cromarty Firth, has a history going back to 1901. Here three Sonatas battle weekly in the Wednesday evening races in a keen handicap fleet. At Chanonry Sailing Club, just a few miles away in the shallow Inverness Firth, the number has just doubled to two. There is an active regatta racing programme in the area. Fleets are modest and it is always a struggle to keep numbers up. However there are six events to choose from, with others planned.

It may seem a long way away but it’s not that far. If you are in the area contact John Burgis (Rhythm ‘n‘ Blue).