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After our refreshments, we paddled the short distance to the narrow entrance to Loch Spelve. It was 11.18 and slack water was at 11.45. There was hardly a ripple in the channel and we proceeded unhindered by the tide.
Tidal streams at Loch Spelve entrance run at 3.5-4 knots springs with strong eddies and overfalls.
Ingoing -0530 HW Oban
Outgoing +0015 HW Oban
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As we proceeded through the confines of the entrance, a fantastic vista of sky, mountain and loch opened beyond.
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We passed evidence of abandoned settlements everywhere. The view was dominated by the steep slopes of Creach Beinn, 698m, behind which, we had watched the sun setting only 3 days before.
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No sooner had we entered Loch Spelve than the welcoming committee swam out to greet us. Although the human inhabitants had long gone...
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...this fine fellow of an otter swam right up to us, bold as brass! Jim was ever so pleased, he had not seen an otter before.