Hebridean Frontiers
“North backing northwest, three to five. Sea state slight. Good, moderate later.”
On the northern frontiers of the Atlantic lies the Shipping Forecast region, Hebrides. Setting out to deepen our bonds with this land we journeyed from the mainland, traversing the Isle of Skye, before navigating the ferry crossing to North Uist.
Below Ambassador Mike Lay reports back on the treasures of that most unlikely of surf destinations, we speak to Mel Barratt and Ross Edgley about their epic endurance swims in UK waters, and dive into the history of the Fair Isle jumper, an iconic Scottish knitwear style with a storied heritage.
Watch the film
Will wears the Men's Mora Knit Jumper
Holly wears the Women's Nimbus Hooded Jacket
An archipelago comprising hundreds of islands, the sea and sky of the Hebrides blend into one another across the horizon.
Piling into a van, the Cornish crew made their way up the length of the UK to Scotland. We picked up Shaanti and Elsa from the station along the way and headed west until we were greeted by the sea.
Mike wears the Men's Shetland Fair Isle Jumper
Shaanti wears the Women's Gwavas Denim Shirt
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Having formed his own relationship with North Uist on two previous trips, Mike reports back on the journey, his connection to the Hebrides, and the unlikely treasures found on its mountainous shores.
“A trio of sojourns to North Uist and not a single wave above waist high, but all the other golden moments present and correct."
Mike Lay, Surfer, Lifeguard and Writer.
“Whatever the Shipping Forecast means to any given individual, its spell is as strong and seductive as ever.”
Mike Lay, Finisterre Ambassador
Shaanti wears the Nieuwland 3s Yulex® Gloves
Mike wears the Men's Nieuwland 2e Yulex® Long Sleeve Shorty Wetsuit
An ancient land with its own Celtic heritage, we traversed the Isle of Skye, heading for the ferry to North Uist and the remote chance of waves in the Outer Hebrides.
Invigorated by the adventure the crew departed the Hebrides with full hearts and heavy feet. Efforts rewarded, replaying the memories of mountainous vistas and windswept beaches.
Excited for the returning swells of autumn and the thinner crowds that come with it, we set our sights on the season ahead, ready to embrace the elements and make the most of every moment.
INSPIRING A LIFE IN AND AROUND THE SEA...
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