A low-pressure system over Norway and a high-pressure system over central Europe create some interesting wind conditions. We enjoy the warm summer weather, but the wind itself seems unable to make up its mind, alternating between near calm and strong winds. We leave Samsø early in the morning to make the most of the light offshore breeze created by the temperature difference between land and sea. By midday, gusts of more than 30 knots are forecast—but by then we are already safely tucked away in one of the most sheltered harbours in the Kattegat: Øer Havn. This unusual harbour can only be reached through a lock, located just south of the ferry port at Ebeltoft.

Samsø in the morning.

We have passed this entrance, stretching far out into the Kattegat, many times before. It leads to a lagoon harbour that can only be accessed through a lock. For years, both the lock and the harbour lay largely abandoned, but things have changed: there is now a new operator, new pontoons and improved facilities. We are surprised to see just how popular this sheltered haven has become again. So this is where we take the opportunity to slow down for a while: laundry is done, batteries are recharged, and the crew gets some well-earned rest. The lock does not open until 0700 in the morning—so, for once, we have a good excuse to sleep in.