Following the success of last year’s joint Armada to Lambay Island, the Howth Yacht Club Cruising Group and the National Yacht Club Cruising Group once again joined forces for another memorable Lambay Armada.

The date was set for the 16th of August, with many fingers crossed that Mother Nature would be kind. The day began under low cloud, but as the flotilla drew closer to Lambay, the skies brightened and the sun broke through. It seemed the weather gods were indeed on our side.

From Howth, the cruising fleet slipped lines at 10:00, while the National fleet had departed Dun Laoghaire at 08:00. Both squadrons converged just north of Ireland’s Eye, making for a fine sight on the water.

With an easterly breeze blowing, the choice of anchorage became the key decision. Admiral O’Neill dispatched a scout boat to Saltpan Bay on Lambay’s north side to check conditions. The first report was encouraging, but within twenty minutes the wind had veered north, making Saltpan unsuitable. A swift message over VHF redirected the Armada to Talbot Bay on the south side. The decision proved perfect—calm seas, blazing sunshine, and a sheltered anchorage.

The Armada mustered an impressive 34 yachts in total—13 from the National Yacht Club, 20 from Howth, and even a Norwegian cruiser passing through on her way to Howth. As the fleet settled in Talbot Bay, it was a breathtaking scene: sails furled, yachts lying to anchor or rafting together, framed by Lambay’s green hills and rugged coastline under a brilliant blue sky. Soon the sounds of cutlery, corks, and laughter drifted across the anchorage as crews enjoyed lunch aboard.

The fine weather tempted many into the water, with crews swimming in the clear, inviting sea. Some even swam across to visit neighbouring boats—a true Armada spirit.

All too soon, the time came to weigh anchor. The passage back to Howth was made in perfect sailing conditions, with a steady breeze carrying the fleet homewards in good time for the evening’s festivities.

At Howth, Marina Manager Fred had arranged ample berthing for the visiting NYC fleet. Ashore, the clubhouse quickly filled with a lively mix of Howth and National sailors. The bar was buzzing, the barbecue busy, and the atmosphere warm and friendly.

As the evening unfolded, Admiral O’Neill thanked Andrew Collins of the National Yacht Club for leading their contingent, while HYC Cruising Captain Sinéad Ryan made a fitting presentation of a bottle of Lambay Single Malt Whiskey to Admiral Collins.

It was the perfect close to another hugely successful Armada. Crews are already looking forward to next year’s edition of this now much-loved tradition.

Report by Garry Davis

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