“IONA TOUR”, a six-week cruise to Ireland and Scotland aboard the LOXO 40

Christian and Monique Bouroullec, founders of Pogo Structures, are preparing to set sail aboard the LOXO 40, named “Iona” in reference to the Scottish island of the same name, for a six-week cruise through the wild landscapes of Scotland and Ireland. This voyage, which they have named the “IONA TOUR”, includes a stopover on the Isle of Iona, at the heart of their itinerary.

A first long-distance cruise for the LOXO 40

This voyage marks a first for the LOXO 40, the latest addition to Pogo Structures motorboat range. Monique and Christian, recent retirees, are preparing for this cruise with a dual aim: to enjoy a wonderful adventure at sea and to test the boat under real-world conditions over an extended period.

Experienced long-distance sailors, Christian and Monique have already completed cruises to Spain, the Canary Islands, Greece, England, Ireland, the Caribbean and Polynesia, notably aboard POGO yachts.

They plan to set sail from Sainte-Marine (Brittany, France) in the coming days, weather permitting, with a return scheduled for late June. In the meantime, final preparations are gathering pace: Christian is taking care of the technical aspects of the boat, whilst Monique is focusing on provisioning and equipping the vessel. Together, they are fine-tuning the itinerary, already dreaming away over Google Earth and travel guides.

Heading north: freedom and exploration

The itinerary has been kept deliberately flexible. After a stopover in the Isles of Scilly, the LOXO 40 will set sail for Ireland before heading to the Isle of Iona, off the north-west coast of Scotland. The journey will be punctuated by stops at ports and anchorages, depending on the weather.

For Monique and Christian, this trip also has a more personal dimension. They will be returning to Ireland, which they first discovered 42 years ago aboard their small sailing boat, a Muscadet. A way to relive the fond memories of their first sailing trips together!

LOXO 40: sail simply, enjoy to the full

With the LOXO 40, the cruising experience is evolving:

The boat’s impressive range and guaranteed speed mean you can confidently tackle long day-time legs. Sailing is stress-free, whether sheltered in the cockpit with its 360° view or out in the open, depending on the weather. The very shallow draught and the ability to run aground easily open up access to less-frequented spots.

The comfort will be a world away from that of the little Muscadet. “Iona” is equipped with amenities that transform life on board: heating, which will certainly come in handy in Scotland; a proper kitchen “just like at home”; a spacious cabin; a panoramic saloon to enjoy the beautiful scenery; a sheltered outdoor “deck”; a shower with hot water…

The joy of the voyage lies in alternating between sailing, port stops, wild anchorages, and visits and walks ashore in the heart of nature. Christian and Monique are also planning trips to Dublin, Belfast and Glasgow, either by public transport or by hiring a car from the port.

“We can’t wait to spend a few weeks aboard the Loxo 40: sailing, exploring Scotland, relaxing, enjoying the stunning scenery and local traditions… without overindulging in Guinness or Islay whisky!  A real change of scenery awaits us – it’s an adventure.” 

An adventure to follow

IONA TOUR is also part of a desire to share stories and inspire. “It’s an opportunity to show that you can sail far and for a long time in this boat, and have a great time doing it,” says Christian.

Tune in over the coming weeks to follow this journey.

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