A lonely shore on the Solway.

 I took a break on lonely Knockbrex beach which is guarded by its folly.

 The sun and southerly wind were surprisingly warm so...

 ...,despite being early October, I went for a (quick) swim. The crowds of summer are long gone and I enjoyed the peace of this beautiful place on my own.

 Then it was time to catch the wind for a brisk paddle back...

 ...to the delightful beach of Smuggler's Cove where I launch.

Yet another ace Solway day.

Big skies in the Solway.

 As I paddled south out of Fleet Bay, Ardwall Isle and...

 ...Murray's Isles lay under an amazing skyscape of clouds.

 The combination of sun, wind and a lively sea...

 ...made for some amazing rockhopping on the outer reefs.

I was on my own with not another boat insight as I rounded the southernmost reef of Barlocco Isle and...

...hoisted my sail to make my way north again in more sheltered waters.

All calm at dawn on the Solway.

 Last Thursday dawned with light winds...

 ...and clear skies.

 However the forecast was for force 4 to 5 winds to kick in from the SW by early afternoon.

Perfect conditions to set off to the south with a sail strapped to the deck!