Like every other crew trying to have a pleasant sailing holiday on the West Coast of Scotland, we are wondering what we ever did to deserve two and a half weeks of gales gales and more gales. The month of May has been a virtual write-off as regards cruising, because every thought has to be about finding a secure spot out of the way of the next gale, from whichever direction it is forecast. We are still on a mooring in Mallaig harbour, with a ringside seat for the construction of the new pontoons, estimated to be completed by end June. Only a rock platform has been built so far, but we are well placed to see what happens next there.

Today we are being swung about on the mooring to the tune of 37 knots of wind, maximum so far.

May June be better! Oh please!