We spent many years on the Thames, had many good times, met some great people but eventually felt restricted and 'done that been there'. This is the 4th year in the Solent, have had some fabulous times, met even more great people and still loads to do,see and go to. So the sea wins for us.
Mikes got a very valid point, (as ever) Brighton has predominently strong SW 3-4s plus shallow waters plus several knots of tide each day. Spent a season nay a year there and can count on one hand the times when it was not too rough for the missus. Go one way east or west and you'll be punching it on thee way back.
<hr width=100% size=1><A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.suncoastmarine.co.uk>Sun Coast Sea School & Charter</A>
Two years in the Solent, wife and family came out twice, otherwise "too rough" or "baby is too small". I'm taking the boat to the Thames but in striking distance of the salty bits. Intended result is a son who will learn to steer the boat and a wife + two daughters who are happy to go boating every couple of weeks and enjoy themselves. Build them up by cruising in company on the Tideway (even though they've done it before) and then "but dear, its only a couple of days or so to France or Belgium, we could go to Bruges, or Ghent..."
Don't mind locks, spent years narrowboating so the Thames ones are for dossers
<hr width=100% size=1>Two beers please, my friend is paying.
Hi Phill
Have many happy memories of the upper Thames, balmy summer days, riverside pubs for lunch, great pike fishing genuine stress free boating. But I think the sea is much more exciting, with far more places to visit, mind you I still love the river & get out with a friend of mine whenever the oppertunity arises, so ill say 50/50. it doesent matter where you go as long as you enjoy yourself.
Only 2 hrs to go & Im on my way to Spain
PS seen the weather forecast bring your brolly. see you soon........Nat
<hr width=100% size=1>2655 ! You can tell me, I'm a Docter !