North Somerset and devon cruising

[emjay]

Hi folks, I wonder if anyone can give me any info about cruiasing the coast along the north Somerset/Devon coastline. I have several friends who (for reasons best known to them) have moved to this part of the world. Whilst I am told that the coastline is not as user-friendly or attractive as the south coast, I am hoping that it will at least be an area worth taking my boat to. I have been mainly cruising the south coast/Solent regions.
This is my first time on the forum and I'm looking forward to chatting with you in the future.
Happy Xmas (what's left of it) and a Happy New Year! /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[Gludy]

What do you want to know about the area?
A few forumites are based in the Bristol Channel. I am sire we would all help.
Can your boat dry out? Are you looking to anchor out or restricting yourself to marinas and harbors that yoy can lock inside?

 

[hlb]

The whole of the north coast of the devon side Bristol channel is largly uncruisable, by most folks definitions. I have done it a few times, but only by making 80 mile passeges between safe harbours. Less your very hardened, I'd leave this coast alone.

 

[Gludy]

Come of it - it is not that bad and the scenery is superb.

Lets find out what sort of thing is wanted and then advise there are some great places to visit and things to do.

 

[emjay]

I have a sports cruiser, so marinas plus the odd day spent anchored just off a beach is the sort of thing I'm looking for. I believe there's a small marina at Watchet, which would mean an easy trip across to Cardiff or Swansea, with longer trips down towards Cornwall. I take on board your comments, many thanks.

 

[Gludy]

Advise you buy the Lundy Guide

Watchet - marina
Porlock weir - anchor out in the bay on nice days
Ilfracoombe - I often stay there - anchor in outer harbout when there is enough water - you need to work that out.
Padstow - a great place, you stay inside the tidal gate
Lundy
Swansea
Tenby - anchor off

There are many places - you need to study thebooks and formulate a plan then we can help you with more detail.

 

[bluedragon]

Well it depends on your alternatives....
Vs. the S.Coast the Bristol Channel is:
Muddy
Big tides
Limited overnight stops (Bristol/Portishead, Cardiff, Watchet, Ilfracombe, Swansea for all weather marinas...though more are planned)
But...
Cheap
Uncrowded
Friendly
And from Watchet to Ilfracombe especially, beautiful scenery (Exmoor coast)...and reasonably close to Pembrokeshire (even more beautiful IMHO).

If I didn't happen to live here, would I keep my boat somewhere else? Probably...but not not far away (Milford Haven most likely). Come and have a look next summer..you'll get a warm welcome on both the Welsh and English sides of the channel in my experience.

 

[kds]

I started cruising here 4 years ago after Solent and South Coast cruising.
It is refreshingly empty of boats - if you avoid the marinas.
The tides are high and tidal flow is fast - but get it right and it can double your distance covered in 6 hours.
The waves are unusual - a bit like the "solent chop" with attitude !
You do need to plan ahead as there is a shortage of ports of refuge.
Both South coast of Wales and North coast of Somerset are beautiful.
There are other ports which are challenging and fun, but which would not appeal to the average caravanner - it depends on whether you are adventurous or luxurious.
"Local Knowledge" is very desirable, so join a club - I have never been made so welcome as here.
http://website.lineone.net/~dmhumphrey/

I sail from Burnham on Sea - lovely mooring in the river Brue (£40 per year), just off the river Parrot, close to the sailing Club and pontoons.
Just ask if you need more help.
Ken

 

[Andrew_Fanner]

Don't know how accessible Bideford/Appledore might be, some good pubs.