Mess for Kim

[Medskipper]

Hi Kim

Some of the guys in my marina are interested in doing a cruise to the Channel Isles. I have never done this before.

I know you have done this trip loads of times so any tips, pointers or waypoints you can give me would be gratefully received!!

Email: barrywinnett@yahoo.com

Many Thanks


Barry Winnett



<hr width=100% size=1>I just want to retire with my boat to the Med!

 

[pissativlypossed]

Which marina, might be interested in joining you?

<hr width=100% size=1>"Open Another Bottle"

 

[Deleted User YDKXO]

I'm sure Kim will give you his own answer but IMHO the best way to do a first time Channel Isles trip is to sign up for one of MBM's cruises in company and then you wont have to worry too much about tides or weather and have a great time picking up some experience
My own general tips about doing this trip would be as follows
1. Try to cross the Channel in less than F3/4 wind. If you go in worse conditions then ensure the wind is with the tide and remember to check whether the tide changes direction during the crossing because that will affect the sea conditions
2. Remember that the direction of the wind is as important as its strength. For example, going from the Solent to CI, a NE3-4 will be a lot more comfortable than a SW3-4
3. In calm conditions particularly early in the season, there is a strong possibility of mid Channel fog so make sure you know the ColRegs, know how to use your radar and have a detailed route in your plotter. This month's MBY article is worth reading
4. Keep a sharp lookout in the shipping lanes because the buggers are moving a lot faster than they appear. I find the radar is helpful in judging potential collisions
5. Dont be afraid of the Alderney Race or the Swinge providing you pass through at slack water or wind over tide. Avoid altogether in any wind against tide conditions. Be aware that there are also serious overfalls off Cap de la Hague
6. The Little Russel channel entrance to St Peter Port looks quite alarming on the charts but is relatively easy providing your coursework and pilotage is accurate. Remember that the fuel pontoon at St Peter Port dries out - worth looking at the photos in Boatworks shop
7. Do try to visit Alderney 'coz its fab but avoid Braye harbour in any northerly or easterly winds because it can be v uncomfortable
8. Go visit Sark and Herm but best done by trip boat whilst your boat is left snug in Victoria marina
9. If you are going to anchor, remember that the tidal range can be 13m or more so if you anchor in 10m depth at high water you'll be dry at low water. Similarly, if you anchor at low water remember to let out enough chain for the depth to increase
10. Get large scale up to date charts for anywhere you intend to go.
11. Dielette and Carteret on French coast worth a visit but avoid Cherbourg. Its a dump. You would'nt go to Southampton for a holiday so why people go to Cherbourg I have no idea other than its a convenient bolthole in a blow

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[DavidBunn]

Well done Mike, great reply, and excellent advice.

<hr width=100% size=1>Sea water is for boating on, not swimming in.

 

[Nick2]

Thanks Mike - to be printed and stuck in front of Almanac

Nick

<hr width=100% size=1><A target="_blank" HREF=http://arweb.co.uk/argallery/Nick2>http://arweb.co.uk/argallery/Nick2</A>

 

[PhilF]

I''ll follow you then
Philf

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[DepSol]

Nip round the needles, keep 2 miles West of the Casquets then head for the shipping lane in the Little Russel and into SPP. No problems. Any probs on the way bolt into the IOW or Alderney.

<hr width=100% size=1>Dom

<A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.soltron.co.uk>the website</A>

 

[Medskipper]

Chatham Marina!

Have not fixed the dates yet.

Barry

<hr width=100% size=1>I just want to retire with my boat to the Med!

 

[Medskipper]

Thanks mike for taking the time with your reply.

I have been to Cherbourg and the north coast of France but I just havnt done the Channel Isles.

My brother who is an excellant yachtmaster has done them and I guess his stories regarding the various races and Rocks have made me a bit wary!!

Kind Regards

Barry


<hr width=100% size=1>I just want to retire with my boat to the Med!