Transit to Portugal

[Adrianwool]

Hi folks plan to take my boat down to Portugal once she is refitted (Nimbus 3400), so she has the low air draft required for the French canals. But having read information (mostly compiled by rag and stick men I have to admit), seems like a worse experience than port hopping around the outside (i.e. France , Spain, Portugal). Any opinions on either option , especially if you have done it , welcome

 

[Hurricane]

I think if I were you, I'd do the more challenging run - coast hopping round Biscay.

If you get weather like we had last year it would be an experience you wont forget.

This was our trip - incase you missed it on your search.
http://www.ybw.com/forums/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/2002786/an/0/page/0#2002786

 

[miket]

Portugal is not the most obvious destination for an inland route. More normally for Med' destinations.
I think I would do the coastal route if I had the time to do it in ideal conditions, otherwise truck it. With diesel at current prices, cost may not be so different?

 

[John100156]

Unless your up for the fun of it (and I do envy those that have done it) - I would opt for transport by lorry (reduced hours/servicing, wear and tear, fuel cost, etc), I used Coast2Coast last year who did an excellent job:

http://www.c2cboattransport.co.uk/

Otherwise, I would definately coastal-hop which may be the preferred option with your insurers too - make sure they warrant the journey!

Would not want to bump it through the canals though, even if you could find a route! /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

Bon Voyage! /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

 

[SolentPhill]

Hi Ive got to take a bit of kit later in Aug I found the best route was Portsmouth to Santander, then drive 100km to Portugal

 

[PlanB]

We coast hopped in a leisurely manner from London to the Med in a Princess 435 and loved every minute of it. However, as previous posters have said, you only do it this way for the fun - the fuel costs are eye-watering!

 

[oceandrive]

We are doing the run in May then on to Malta. when do you plan going?