The Wash

[Rab17]

We have had a Sealine S23, based in Lincoln, for a couple of years but have only cruised on the Fossdyke and Witham. We would like to try cruising in The Wash, entering via Boston, but have no idea how to go about planning the trip.
Can anyone provide us any tips?

 

[Greg2]

The Wash is significantly affected by tides and at low water most/all ports are inaccessible as well as lots of sandbanks drying out. Careful passage planning is essential and knowing where you can get in and out of when is very important as one engine out you may not be able to get back in for several hours.

Not many paces to go - you could visit Kings Lynn as there is a visitors pontoon. Wells-next-the-Sea just round on the N. Norfolk coast is well worth a visit but again, tidally restricted so careful planning essential and you will want fairly good conditions in an S23.

 

[Momac]

You will be expected to exit/enter Boston when the tide makes a level. All passages will need to be booked with the lock keeper at Boston. On the return leg you must be expected to ensure the lock is manned.
Our very first sea trip was out of Boston with our S23 . We made the fairly short trip to Fosdyke Yacht Haven on the Welland . Don't just turn up at Fosdyke - you will need to phone the day before so you will be expected. The tides run pretty fast so you will need to time it to arrive close to high water .
I assume you have a working VHF which is essential. A chart plotter would be useful so you can practice for future longer trips.