Follow the Rugged Coast of Achill Island

Amongst the wild and rugged coastline of Ireland lies a hidden gem, Achill Island, a breathtaking paradise that invites the townspeople who are looking for peace and adventure. The island is famous for its peaceful beauty and exciting water sports activities, which makes it a perfect getaway for people to escape the busy city life. Achill Island is usually windy and along with a not-so-cold sea. a great place for water sports lovers. 

To learn more about this mysterious island’s special weather and rough coastline, we went on a road trip with Stig Hoefnagel, Henri Kolberg and Jeanne Vanderick to find out. Watch the full video below.

Impact of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Stream on climate and landscape

The Gulf Stream is a powerful ocean current that flows along the eastern coast of North America, across the Atlantic Ocean, and towards Western Europe. It’s part of the larger North Atlantic Gyre circulation system.

The Gulf Stream has a significant impact on Europe’s climate and specially the western coast of Ireland. It brings warm waters that moderate the region’s climate which lead into milder winters and cooler summers. This phenomenon, often known as the “North Atlantic Drift”, ensures that the climate of western Ireland remains distinct from that of other regions at the same latitude.

The Gulf Stream also influences weather patterns such as the formation of storms which contributes to the creation of the rugged coastline. The powerful waves, created by the storms, have shaped the landscape. Carving cliffs, sea stacks and rocky outcrops along the shoreline.

Overall, the Gulf Stream is a critical driver of Europe’s climate system, and its influence on the western coast of Ireland showcases its importance in creating diverse and unique environmental conditions.

Last stop – Complete different sense of temperature

For the last session we went back to Keel Beach as the forecast looked promising with gusts up to 35 knots. The wind was strong and it was pouring. While the water temperature was still around 10 degrees, the sense of temperature was completely different and Stig, Henri and Jeanne went out with 6/4 hooded wetsuits including gloves and boots. It instantly felt like it was freezing a few degrees.

Wind chill is a crucial factor to consider when choosing the right thickness of wetsuit for your session. Wind chill can significantly affect how your body retains heat and how you experience the cold.