Portland Bill

[C08]

Planning to pass by there tomorrow from Brixhan to Weymouth but SWMBO hates the inshore passage despite us never having having had any problems there and being a biggish spring she wants us to go south of the Bill and then up to Weymouth via east of the Shambles which is ok but looks about 8 miles further. Despite a very good forecast that is the way we will go (!). The tide times make it best for us to use the low water slack at Portland and go perhaps 3 miles off the Bill and have a fair tide most of the way across Lyme Bay. My question is whether slack water south of the bill is the same as the inshore passage low water slack water ie about at HW Dover. We will probably leave with the last of the foul tide so as to avoid wind over tide at Portland and not to have to fight the tide up to Wymouth.
Any words of wisdom on this!

 

[lw395]

If you start a bit early and head up a bit into Lyme Bay initially, the west-going tide is a lot less.
Ideally I'd refer you to the notes in Fishwick's book West Country Cruising, but I've always found the diagram in the almanac about right.
Wind looks OK for tomorrow, but try to avoid ending up beating back to Weymouth.

 

[superheat6k]

I would plan for arrival at the Bill approx 1-2 hours before the east running stream turns, this gives you plenty of spare time. As you approach aim for a spot mid way up the high ground plateau to the north of the bill as the tide sets south as you get closer, and this allows you to get close in as you round.

The race on the east running tide can be clearly seen approx 1/2 mile off the bill, so the passage round is easy to see. With a westerly wind and tide going the same way you will have an enjoyable run, and wonder what the fuss is all about.

Bon voyage - I've got to go to work !