Over the Sea to Skye

We were up a little earlier today so we could enjoy breakfast before heading out on our main trip. The cottage owners had left us some local produce, fresh eggs and milk,  which made for a simple but lovely start to the morning.

After eating, we caught a small shuttle to Kyle of Lochalsh on Scotland’s west coast. From there, as the old song goes, we went “over the sea to Skye.”  

“Speed, bonnie boat, like a bird on the wing…” it felt fitting to hear those words in my head as we crossed the water.

Rather than take the bridge or another shuttle, we chose a traditional boat for the crossing to the Isle of Skye. It was absolutely breathtaking,  rugged, ancient, and quietly majestic. In some ways, it reminded me of Bak’quell in the Sea of Arlibath on Trill: that same blend of wild beauty and timeless calm.

What struck me most about Skye is how little it seems to have changed despite the centuries and the pull of modern life. Island life remains simple, steady, and deeply rooted in tradition.

When we finally returned to the cottage, the owners stopped by to make sure we’d settled in well. They’re a truly lovely couple. They even brought us a haggis to try for dinner tonight. We’re a little wary of what exactly goes into it,  but nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Speed, bonnie boat, like a bird on the wing.

Onward, the sailors cry!

Carry the lad that’s born to be King

Over the sea to Skye.

Many's the lad fought on that day

Well the claymore did wield,

When the night came, silently lay

Dead on Culloden’s field.

Speed, bonnie boat, like a bird on the wing.

Onward, the sailors cry!

Carry the lad that’s born to be King

Over the sea to Skye.

Though the waves leap, soft shall ye sleep,

Ocean's a royal bed.

Rocked in the deep, Flora will keep

Watch by your weary head

Speed, bonnie boat, like a bird on the wing.

Onward, the sailors cry

Carry the lad that’s born to be King

Over the sea to Skye. - The Corries.

Image from Unsplash by Bjorn Snelders