Help for a newbie

[Jopo]

Hi. New to power boating and living near Swansea. We will be buying a power boat soon (up to 8m) for sea fishing and overnighting.
I have been offered a wet mooring in Milford Haven - 12 miles from the sea. The thought is that as a newbie it is safer to get some experience in the estuary before venturing out.
Altough we are near Swansea I think we are safer in waters with less tides and fewer sandbars. My son is taking power boat lessons soon.
Trailering is out as we have already got a project on the drive (Shetland Speedwell with 75 Suzuki and 6hp Johnson - sound hull but in need of a fair bit of tlc) sitting on a trailer which is in need of a new axle and the boss says we must have a mooring unless we get rid of the Speedwell. Work commitments preclude spending much time on the project.

My question is am I right to be wary of the coast between say Port Talbot and Pembroke?

Welcome any advice/thoughts.
Jopo

 

[rafiki_]

A very warm welcome Jopo. Unfortunately I do not know your location, so cannot really add any wisdom. However, I do agree that pottering around in the estuary will build your confidence before you venture out to sea.

 

[tico]

If its in the Haven & 12 miles from the sea then probably Lawrenny.
Estuary round there is good for beginners as its fairly quiet and sheltered. Then , when confidence has been gained, its an easy run down to Dale and Watwick, still sheltered but more akin to coastal waters.
Not many sandbars, but be aware that the tide rips through Lawrenny moorings on springs.

As for the coast between PT and the Haven, it's pretty rugged and you have to negotiate St Govans head and associated overfalls which can be pretty severe/frightening.

 

[Jopo]

Lawrenny. Not far off - Rudders (on sale for £2.5m). Thanks for the advice.
Jopo

 

[Quest]

Jopo,
I used to run across to Swansea regularly from Ilfracombe and have explored all the coastline down to and incl Milford in a 21 footer with outboard. Whilst I wouldn't criticise your logic and reasonings I would say that Swansea is not a bad place to learn from. The bay is a large fairly sheltered area and Mumbles gives good shelter from the prevailing Westerlies. If you are anything like me you may enjoy some time at Milford and then may look for a change in boating areas to explore new places, then Swansea may be ideal. I think the likes of Mumbles, oxwich Bay and the Gower will all be great fun to explore from Swansea in due course.
Have fun,
Andrew

 

[tico]

Rudders is fine if a bit basic & the tide can run a bit quick through the moorings.
Nice run down in the evening to the Jolly and the pontoon there