Clear
skies and fine weather heralded the arrival of ninety-nine Classic Malts Cruisers
at the Talisker Distillery, by the shores of Loch Harport on the Isle of Skye,
yesterday (Thursday 18th July). Drawn by the prospect of some excellent cruising
and a first rate party, the Loch was a fine sight as a steady stream of yachts
sailed into the bay during the afternoon.
The Classic Malts Cruise got under way last Sunday (14th July) from Oban since when all the yachts have spent time cruising north towards Skye. The small isles on Rhum, Canna and Muck were popular stopovers, as was Tobermorry on Mull. Some adventurous cruisers even made it out to the Outer Isles of North and South Uist, before the rendezvous at Loch Harport.
Highlight of the Talisker visit for many were the tutored "nosings", an expert guided tasting of all six of the Classic Malts, lead by distillery managers from Talisker and Glenkinchie. A perfect opportunity to learn more about whisky, following the popular distillery tours.
The day was rounded off in truly Highland fashion with a traditional ceilidh, an evening of music, singing and dancing which went on until late. The dance floor was crowded with cruisers as the Caller lead the dancers in the Dashing White Sergeant, Stripping the Willow and many more old favourites. The happy dancers were kept going during the hectic pace of the dancing with plenty of smoky fine Talisker classic malt whisky.
The Talisker visit was brought to a close today with a lavish barbeque beside Loch Harport, serenaded by a lone piper playing traditional Skye reels. In a freshening northerly breeze, the yachts are now heading south, ready for the next and final meet of the Classic Malts Cruise, in just over a week's time, at Lagavulin distillery on Islay.
World Cruising Club, 120 High Street, Cowes, PO31 7AX, England
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