The Ilen Marine School of Limerick’s 56ft traditional trading ketch Ilen has been making the best of a sojourn in Galway City and the gentler periods of late Autumn weather in November, with last weekend’s ideal conditions being used for a visit to Kilronan in the Aran Islands.
Ilen is no stranger to the main port on Aran, as late in the summer of 2020 - during her multi-visit trading cruise - she delivered the best Limerick-distilled whiskey to Inis Mor. But this time round, it was simply a goodwill visit, a chance to renew old friendships, and an opportunity for some sail training drill.
When we remember that the days start getting longer again in just six weeks time, it was an especially magic experience, and an eloquent reminder of the winter sailing enthusiasts’ belief that one good hour of sailing in the off season is as good for you as an entire day in summer.