Date: Wednesday 23^rd July 2008

Anchorage: Loch Eport, North Uist

Position: 57° 33’.200N 007° 09’.500W

Distance Travelled: 36 NM

The forecast for today was optimistic, as was the outlook from the crew and volunteers, and we were all eager for some ‘swell’ surveying. The mist was still hanging around at breakfast but by the time we had made our way out of Loch Harport land was clearly visible. Two porpoises were spotted as we headed out the loch, a seal or two made an appearance and Phil did well in spotting a rather large shark basking to its hearts content. After that, the sea turned barren… And then Natalie spotted something… A cry of ‘Killer whales!’ came from the mast and a flurry of activity ensued on deck as everyone stumbled to get their cameras and focus on the fins.

There were 5 beasties in total and 10 beaming faces with grins from ear to ear. We stayed with them for a while, happily snapping and generally relishing the awesome sight [our photo-identification work has shown that these are all in the HWDT catalogue – adult males Aquarius and Floppy Fin, adult females Lulu and Nicola, and the snappily-named UK010]. The killer whales however, paid no attention to us and were far more interested in the delicious snacks that they were hunting. The only sadness in the scene was a lone guillemot squawking disconsolately – where were all his chums when he needed them? We had to move on but all eyes were peeled and ready for some more cetacean encounters. Unfortunately, all life seemed to disappear from the Little Minch with the exception of a lonely porpoise spotted by Coll, and the rest of the day seemed to turn into a snooze cruise with most of the crew and some volunteers having a well earned afternoon nap. We went off effort as we entered Loch Eport and enjoyed the glorious scenery with plenty of wildlife to keep us entertained. When we found a suitable anchorage (thanks Dave!) Susie and Coll decided it was the perfect spot for a swim, although Coll was slightly hesitant to actually get in the water! After deciding it was indeed cold, it was time for a delicious Chicken and veg (Quorn for the veggies) stir-fry expertly made by Natalie and Fiona and enjoyed by all. An evening stroll ashore followed and some reminiscing of the days events over a nice cup of cocoa.