Cruising Destinations

Sailing at last! Photo by Chris Gill of Windcheck.

Picking a destination is as easy as it is complex. The first challenge is to answer the question, "Dock, mooring, or anchorage?" The second issue is to master the concept of "Gunkholing." And then there is offshore cruising, ocean passages, and foreign ports...

Gunkholing

"All gunkholes are anchorages, but not all anchorages are gunkholes. There is a subjective quality in the term "gunkhole" that is not present in any anchorage... A gunkhole is that ideal anchorage of which you dream, protected from stronger winds, surrounded by towering trees with seabirds swooping down to catch the jumping bait fish, and with a good bottom for holding the anchor for as long as you care to stay."

Adapted from: Tom Lenfestey, "A Gunkholer's Cruising Guide to Florida's West Coast"

Part of the allure of gunkholes is keeping them a secret to protect their allure. There aren't quite as many gunkholes on LIS as we would like, but we'll tell you about some of our favorite spots without revealing their secrets.

We'll also provide information about the many destinations that are not gunkholes, but rather cruising destinations that offer marinas, anchorages, moorings and other amenities, adding to the collection as time permits. Suggestions, corrections, additions and editorial contributions are welcome.

Just click on a destination on the following pages to view cruising information. If nothing comes up, that means we are working on it and would appreciate your input.

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Cruising Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

A Word of Welcome to Europe’s Most Precious Gem
The Wild West of the Emerald Isle

An essential guide to adventure along the stunning west coast of Ireland

Whether by sea or by land, Cruising the Wild Atlantic Way provides visitors to the west of Ireland with information about what to know before they go and what they will find when they get there. It provides a logical route with suggested stops in picturesque harbours, villages, and islands along the way from Donegal to Cork. It encourages visitors to see the land as it was seen by explorers centuries ago along one of the most unspoiled stretches of coastline in Europe.

Authors Daria and Alex Blackwell share their experience from their years of cruising along the coast and islands, richly illustrating the locations with photography, charts and maps. “We have a unique perspective, having sailed here across the Atlantic then settling here to explore everything the region has to offer. We share insights into what we would have liked to have known as outsiders coming for our first visit as well as insiders who have discovered and explored the hidden gems,” explains Daria.

“I grew up in the environs of Clew Bay, so the West is embedded in my soul,” says Alex, a master mariner and lifetime sailor. “I respect the environment’s changeable and sometimes unforgiving nature, and I revere the unspoilt beauty of the land, the kindness and friendliness of the people, and the richness of the heritage. No matter how far across oceans we have sailed, we have always been drawn home to the wild west. We want to share our passion with those contemplating a visit and encourage them to unleash their adventurous spirit here.”

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