Oilskin

18 August 2018

The past few weeks we have been sailing in northwest Europe from Brittany, England, Ireland to Scotland and as you probably know this area is not known for sunny and dry weather. Don’t get me wrong, we had lovely weather but between the moments of sunshine there have been countless showers. Varying from Scottish mist to serious downpours. Seldom all day with only rain, but never a day without. 
On board we have a captain who has been asked for the past two, three years if he didn’t need a new oilskin as this one seemed to be leaking. “There is no need, this one will do for many years to come”, was always his answer. 
Yesterday we were in Stornoway on the island of Lewis and at the harbour there is a Fishermen’s Co-operative where one can buy anything that a seaman likes and needs. Clothing too. Ladies and gentlemen: captain Maarten has bought a brand-new oilskin! Now on our way from Stornoway to Ullapool he is shining on the aft deck. Looking very smart! And you know what? It hasn’t been raining. But he is prepared…