Sailing around the Scillies

We sailed to the Scilly Isles on a number of occasions in 'Joy of Mann'. These photographs, taken on and around the islands of Tresco, St Agnes and Round Island, give a flavour of the atmosphere found there. This is created by a remarkable clarity of light and beautiful, unspoiled, sparsely populated white sandy beaches.

Above is a sketch of the Day Mark on the island of St Martin's. The Scillies are very low lying making an approach from the sea somewhat difficult in anything but clear visibility .This is particularly problematic because of the shallow waters and rocky outcrops that are scattered throughout the area. A construction such as this tower which stands on some of the highest ground therefore makes a very useful landmark.

Below is a long, continuous view of the 'Cove' painted from the boat. This very beautiful anchorage lies between the islands of St Agnes and Gugh which are joined together by a small sandy, strip that is completely covered at high water. Sailing from the East, either from Penzance or Padstow, it is possible to sail directly into the 'Cove' and anchor. It is then only a short sail to the harbour on St Mary's or to the moorings in Tresco Sound. St Agnes has only a handful of inhabitants and is well known for the 'Turk's Head' public house which attracts many day visitors from the other islands. At night the various lighthouses cast their magical looms across the water highlighting the numerous rocky outcrops.

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