Efforts over winter changed Thalmia from this:
to this:
As well as the usual stripping, cleaning and storing, winterising, painting and oiling and then refitting, there were a couple of upgrades. A new switch panel and additional battery power were installed. Lithium batteries now act as an extension to my standard lead acid domestic bank. They can be drained deeply and cleverly manage a hand over to the lead acid batteries when necessary. Linked to the solar panels they will allow longer sailing passages using the electronic autohelm and instruments while keeping mobile devices charged and the beer chilled in the fridge!
And… I’ve acquired an electric outboard motor and that will also need topping up!
Late May is the planned time to start the next adventure. I’m heading to Ireland.
The hoped for route is via Salcombe to Falmouth before a short hop to Newlyn which will be a good departure port to make for Cork. A good friend and fellow sailor from Starcross Yacht Club is joining me as far as Cork. The last leg of that passage involves a passage of some 160 nautical miles which will take at least 30 hours and through the night. I have sailed solo across the channel including through the night but this would be beyond my comfort zone as a solo sailor and in any case my insurance limits me to 24hrs of singlehanded passages.
From Cork I will be singlehanded again and I intend to sail west towards Kinsale, Baltimore, Bantry Bay, Dingle, and the Ring of Kerry, passing the Fastnet Rock and Mizen Head along the way.
This is said to be one of the best cruising grounds of the whole of the British Isles. Steep cliffs, rocky outcrops, deep inlets and lochs, beautiful anchorages and at least some marinas and pubs!
If weather and sea conditions allow I would love to explore further up the west of Ireland – what is described as the Wild Atlantic Coast but safety will be my primary consideration. As a 73 year old who came late to sailing my objective this year is to enjoy the voyage not to complete a challenge! Whatever transpires I’m sure it will be a couple of months of excitement and wonder.
The return will probably be from the south east of Ireland via Waterford, Milford Haven, Padstow and Lands End.
I enjoy recording my voyages on my iPhone, GoPro and drone and I aim to update this blog and post videos on YouTube when I can. Please stay in touch on here, subscribe to my YouTube channel – just search there for Voyages of Thalmia or catch up on my Facebook pages with the same name.
The planning continues …..
Voyages of Thalmia 
Hi Derek and Ruth
The delay I responding to this inspiring email is a reflection of the lives we lead at the moment â busier than ever, moving house in 10 days, bring up two grandchildren etc.
You have done a magnificent job with Thalmia over the winter from what I can see.
If I was there Iâd have volunteered to help ! DIY is my thing AND I would be first in line to volunteer as crew for this next adventure â oh how I want a trip back to the UK !.
I so look forward to following your progress. I will be following avidly.
I missed my annual January call to Ruth this year â I think I was in Oz.
I plan to call in the next few months – Derek you may not be back from your trip (?)
I would like to Zoom Ruth in September about the time of the 5th anniversary of Paulâs passing if that would be OK?
I often think of him as Iâm know you do.
Love
Phil & Theresa
P. S. Canât believe Ruth isnât going to crew an opportunity like this !
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Derek,
Great to see you.
All the very best for your adventure. Careful planning and improvements to gear will I am sure help a lot.
Bantry bay was the one I could not remember. Shannon was the airport I was thinking of but I doubt you could get a flight from Bristol. I had no idea you could sail to it!
Why not kiss the Blaney stone while you are in Cork – it did me no harm! Dingle harbour was lovely. My grandmother was Irish and their favourite holiday was Achill Island but too far for you.
Have a great time.
John
07989306452
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The Thalia looks magnificent after her winter makeover, Derek! Journey sounds exciting & challenging
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