Under the Kanmon Bridge and into the Inland Sea!

With the current not being in our favour to make the 50NM direct to Himeshima Island, we decided to leave Tobata at lunchtime to catch the afternoon current through the Kanmon Straits and into the Inland Sea.  Shin Moji Marina was just 20NM away and would be easy to make before dark. 

 Tweed on the old pontoon at Tobata

The Wakato Bridge after leaving Tobata

 

Pushing into the turbulent waters in the Kanmon Straits

Making sure we keep out of the way of shipping traffic

The Kanmon Bridge crosses the narrowest section of the Straits 

Under the bridge...

... and our first view of the Inland Sea

We picked up the eastbound current about one mile from the bridge and were able to continue on with positive current for the remainder of the passage to the marina.  We arrived at 4:00 p.m. and were met by staff who directed us to a nice big berth and helped tie us up.  A bit expensive for one night's stay but the alternative was to wait another 5 or more days in Tobata to wait for a favourable current with enough time to get to Himeshima.  We will leave here early tomorrow morning, and with luck, have a downwind run for the 35NM passage.

Position: 33 deg 53.4 N, 131 deg 00.2E