At last, today during our last call to the isolated island Fair Isle we could face some more typical British conditions: not rain but low clouds and a cold northeasterly wind. Still this was not any problem and with Zodiacs we landed on the southern side of the island. The locals were waiting for us and all the cars on the island were used for our transportation.
The more eager guests did a walk to the bird cliffs to view the Puffins, but others went directly to the Community Hall. Here we could enjoy tea and scones but also talk to some of the 70 people living on the island. Of course, some of us purchased a famous Fair Isle sweater or just watched how they make them.
Time ran by fast and already by noon it was time to set sail for the last, long leg south, towards Edinburgh. With a good tail wind, we sailed and during the afternoon our guest lecturer, Robert McNeil, gave a very interesting talk about journalism and being at the right spot at the right time.
As always, the last night ended with the Captain's farewell cocktails and dinner. The galley presented an enormous sea food dinner which included a little bit of everything the sea can provide. Of course, the highlight was the Orkney lobster which our local dealer at Kirkwall delivered during our call yesterday. Maybe that is one of many things which makes the trip around the British Isles and Ireland so special. On nearly every dinner we have been served fresh fish delivered directly from the sea. On some occasions we were even able to purchase fish directly from trawlers as they pulled up the nets. It is always interesting to see the hotel manager and the head chef go out in a Zodiac and make the deal. Everyone will be up on deck waiting to see what they will bring onboard. As we are waiting, the speculations are wild. Will it be cod, turbot, salmon.?
Come onboard a try the local fish! The cold water fish is always the best.
