The Llyn Penisula cruise

Arklow - Hafan Pwllheli: 70 nm
Hafan Pwllheli - Aberystwyth: 32 nm
Aberystwyth - Arklow: 80 nm

Llyn Penisula
In the north-west of Wales is the Llyn Peninsula, jutting out like a long finger into the Irish Sea.The peninsula stretches from Snowdonia to Bardsey Island at the southern tip and is dotted with beaches and small harbours.The peninsula is unique as there is a mildclimate that is usually better than the rest of Wales! The mountainous peninsula has volcanic peaks now extinct! The highest is Yr Eifl which looms dominantly from offshore. Bardsey Island's Welsh namesake is Ynys Enlli, the 'Island of the Tides'; therefore take caution as there is a tidal race there.The island, which rises sharply to the east, has a bird sanctuary whereas the western slide slopes gently to the lighthouse.The coastal scenery in this region is spectacular. Protected by the National Trust, it is an Area of Special Scientific Interest.As you round the headland to Abersoch Bay you may even see a Llyn sheep, a breed confined only to the peninsula. Proceeding east is the pretty village of Abersoch which boasts a beautiful beach and is where a temporarily mooring can be used that stretches out from the South Carnaerfon Y.C. or anchor in shallow waters north of St.Tudwal's Islands.

Pwllheli
Abersoch is 7 miles from the busy market town of Pwhllheli.The large sheltered marina here is set back from the open sea on a small estuary and has comprehensive facilities.The marina hosts international and local regattas and is close to the scenic cruising grounds and delights of Traemadog Bay.The approaches leading into the estuary at Porthmadog offer stunning views of the former Snowdonian slate port.To the left are the beautiful Black Rock sands and the impressive Norman castles at Criccieth and Harlech to the right. Note that the buoyed channel leading to Porthmadog can be difficult to enter in strong onshore winds. Nearby also is the fascinating elegance of the Italianate inspired village of Portmeirion. Due south is the holiday resort of Barmouth, through the east passage of St. Patrick's Causeway, and the approaches of the beautiful Mawddach estuary. Entry should be made 2.5 hours either side of HW. Only in the most settled conditions is anchorage feasible off the harbour entrance. Alternatively boats that can take the ground can do so throughout the lagoons firm sand. There are numerous places to dine in the host-town where Dinas Oleu is the starting point of the Three Peaks International Yacht Race

Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth, on the mid-west Welsh coastline, is home to the University of Wales and National Library.The town is dominated by an Iron-Age fortification called Pen Dinas when viewed from the south, and is a popular seaside resort overlooking Cardigan Bay.The marina named Y Lanfa is easily accessible, two hours either side of HW.Take the Electric Cliff Railway to Constitution Hill (Camera Obsura) which reveals an amazing panorama at the summit with views in all directions on a clear day to the Preseli Hills, Pembrokeshire and Snowdonia to the North.

Arklow
Across the Irish Sea is Arklow, where the marina is located on the North Quay in the inner dock that affords excellent shelter and there are also berths on the river pontoon.The town is minutes away with the River Avoca flowing by. Upriver is the tranquil beauty of the Vale of Avoca.The county of Wicklow is known as the 'Garden of Ireland' and the striking scenery of Glendalough National Park at Laragh is a must-see attraction.There are numerous high-standard golf courses also to choose from. In the Arklow Maritime Museum, the history of this boat-building and present day shipowning town is complemented by a Maritime Festival held in August.