Category: Northern Ireland
Co-Skipper and TideMaster Jan calculated the departure time to 3am in order to maximze the benefit from the currents on our way through the North Irish Channel.
Belfast was for me the most interesting stop in Ireland. The maritime heritage is huge and well presented. The political history not less interesting but comes with a pinch of bitterness.
Next stop: Scotland!
Fair winds…
To me, the above slogan somehow summarizes the spirit here in Belfast. It might be a bit polarizing but the industrial revolution was incredible and intense in this part of Ireland during the 19th and early 20th Century. Workers were needed and they came from all over Ireland into Belfast.
The Dock Cafe next to our pontoon here in the Titanic Quarter has got an interesting concept based on donation. Any sober business man or woman would shake his or her head around it not investing a single pound or even penny, whatever the equivalent in sterling might be.
We went there and grabbed a coffee and one of the delicious cakes. Cosy, friendly and accommodating.
Honesty works since March 2012!
We have been in numerous public houses since our arrival in Ireland but Madden‘s Bar is without doubt top notch. It got it all – even on a Monday night!
A bit outside the core city centre, the political couleur shall become clear before you join the crowed inside. Read on the photo, if in doubt. Latest when the whole pub roars “Back Home in Derry“ someone should not even think about a conversation around the crown.
We will go again tonight for a final pint or two or…
It was a long ride today but I was keen to round Strangford Lough to get a first hand impression. It was nice but not spectacular. Although not much traffic at all I am impressed about the respect cars give to bikers.
Fair winds…
The rainy day was perfect to visit the futuristic Titanic Museum next to our marina. Multimedia at perfection got our presence and attention for more than three hours. A fantastic journey through time, from incredible enthusiasm and proudness to shock and pain. Very impressive!
Fair winds…
After twenty four hours of sail we have now arrived in Belfast/Northern Ireland. Moored next to the RMS Titanic leftovers, this stop shall not only entertain us in the maritime sense but also educate us politically.
Plenty to explore within the time frame we have got.
Fair winds…