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Tides were favourable for a trip round the Mull of Kintyre from HW Dover -1hr (0700) and would remain fair / slack as we progressed up to the Sound of Gigha until HW Dover +6 (1400). Although the forecast wasn't great for the first 8 miles or so west to the Mull of Kintyre, we would be rounding before the main tidal stream set in when wind against tide could be an issue. Staying about 1½ miles off, once round the Mull of Kintyre with the conditions behind us, we should have a good trip to Gigha some 34 miles from Sanda.
The seas weren't as bad as expected going along the South Coast of Kintyre, and although fairly rough going round the Mull itself it was a good trip. Once going north we were on a broad reach or run most of the way gybing a couple of times in a pretty gusty F4/5. Coming into the South end of the Sound of Gigha, we stayed about 4ca off Cara Island then passed to the Gigha side of the WCM rather than go up the middle of the Sound. There are charted rocks at the North and South ends of Ardminish Bay, however the entry is fairly straightforward.
Ardminish is another great family place to stay, there are around 12 visitors' moorings and plenty places to anchor (we've found the holding to be good). There's a bistro and hotel (with restaurant and bar), and shower, laundry and bin facilities by the jetty. There are a couple of lovely gently sloping sandy beaches which are ideal for the kids and barbecues. No charge is made for the moorings.