We sailed past it in 2018, this time the calm (and sunny) weather allows us to anchor just outside the marina. Despite rolling all night like a rubber duck in a wave pool, we wake up with great excitment to explore this little island gem that is Rathlin. 

We are greeted by the super friendlly harbourmaster Stuart who happily loads us with tips and directions to make the most out of the few hours we have on the island. The visitor center boast a small but very informative museum about the history of the island and its close knit community and Hazel attests to friendliness of its people. We enjoy a lovely circuit walk amongst the green hills and many birds. Before we know it, we are back onboard hoisting the sails once again towards Port Ellen.