Wave Shape
Wave Shape

September in the Farne Islands

Waves Shape
We had a great time in the Farnes recently despite the windy weather, thanks to Ian’s excellent organisation and everyone contributing. Thirteen club members plus two friends dived from William Shiel’s boats over two days (should have been three but the wind was too strong on the first day) and five club members dived on a fourth day with Sovereign Divers.
Day 1
No diving to day as it was far too windy, but a beautifully sunny day. Most of us had a walk along the beach to Bamburgh for a beer. Taking full advantage of the outdoor area at the Bunkhouse a stunning BBQ was enjoyed by all.
Day 2
The wind moderated (a bit). An early start (7am ropes off). Two nice dives but we were limited on dive sites by the current and very choppy seas/moderate breeze. Really good Viz – I could see the surface from 17m+ down.
Our newest member, Oscar, did his first sea dive and did well, and we had quite a lot of ‘ seal action’.
Day 3
Slightly better weather today – moderate wind – but bigger swell and noticeable colder on the surface. We were limited to the south side of the islands, again.
Two dives today. The first was on the blue caps and the second on the Saint Andrey/Pinnacles. Viz worse than yesterday but some nice diving.

 

On the three diving days we could only dive the south side of the islands due to the swell but we all had a good time. Viz was pretty good at 7 to 10m and we saw plenty of seals underwater. We dived on wrecks and reef and there was lots of life but we’ll have to return next year to visit the more interesting sites.

We were asked to cut free another dive boat that was entangled in a pot buoy line. Jim and Ali volunteered and cut the boat free, whilst we picked up some of the other boat’s divers. Jim is our hero!!.

Both Paul C and Dave G left their dive hoods in their cars on different days! Jim, Tom and Ali thought their new dry suits were fantastic. We had a group curry one evening and the staff were very tolerant!

It was a great trip. Great company. Lots of laughs and some reasonable diving. The dive boat skipper was very complimentary about how organised and competent we were (well done Ian B). Thanks, once again, to Ian for organising the trip and dive management.

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