Much is written about the Raz. In a storm, it's a fearsome place and wholly deserves it's reputation - but we have time on our side. We can pick our moment - but still you worry. Our 3 different almanacs/guides gave differing strategies and all advised not passing through in "fresh winds".

The forecast was for a NE 5 or 6. We'd leave early so we could hit the tidal gate at exactly slack water (8pm in our case) and the as the tide turned to go with us and the wind - we'd get a smooth ride through. In theory! But did a 6 count as fresh?

We removed our windscreen covers, ran out our jack stays and clipped on. But it was all unnecessary :) We sailed down to the Raz under genoa alone, adjusting our speed so that we arrived at the allotted point bang on the allotted time. The following swell had built to about 1m as we'd got further from shelter, but as we entered the Raz, it flattened off and we flew through.

Tévennec light appeared off on our starboard side. "Stay well off" advised the guides... Then La Vieille, La Platte and the peninsular itself. (Clearly the fishermen don't read the same guides! A testament to the fact it was a quiet day at the Raz, really)

Once through, we raised the main and sailed down to our destination for the evening Audierne. We got most of the way before the wind had swung too far, so we motored the last hour. Arriving outside Audierne just as night fell, we anchored and put the boat to bed.

That was it - the fearsome Raz was a pussycat for us - for which we were thankful. It's easy to see why it has the dreadful reputation though. I'd never want to see it in a bit of a blow!

Now we have the crossing of Biscay to worry about, but not for another month or so...