SAILING THE SHIPPING FORECAST

Celebrating 100 years of the BBC Shipping Forecast, Jane Russell takes us on a series of coastal cruises through the forecast's sea areas, exploring some of the special places on offer in each zone

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HEBRIDES

This is a spectacular but remote cruising ground. It is essential to be well-prepared and self-sufficient. The Hebrides sea area is right on track for the passage of depressions across the North Atlantic and subject to rapid changes in conditions. Prevailing winds are southwest at a summer average of Force 3-5, but north to east winds become more frequent in May and June if a high pressure establishes north of Scotland. St Kilda and the west coasts of the Outer Hebrides are fully exposed to the wind and swell generated by Atlantic systems which, on average, bring Force 7 or above on three to four days a month between May and August.

The good news is that the chain of outer islands creates a break, and conditions are sufficiently different inside of them that the inshore forecasts are split: Ardnamurchan Point to Cape Wrath including the Outer Hebrides covers the more exposed area; The Minch covers the more protected area within. Most enclosed are the waters east of Skye, although here there may be significant shifts and accelerations to the wind as it comes down off the mountains.

Tides generally flood north up the west side of Skye and up its east side to Kyle Akin, but then meet the south setting flood coming round the top of Lewis and down the North Minch. Currents run very strongly in places, particularly through Kyle Rhea between Skye and the mainland, where the right passage timings are essential. Wind against tide can lump up considerably.

South-west 3 veering west or northwest 5 to 6, occasionally 7 later. Slight or moderate, becoming moderate or rough later. Showers. Moderate or good, occasionally poor.