V-shaped water at the top of the Alderney Race

[guernseyman]

In mid October I was sailing westwards at low water, spring tide, from Cap de la Hague towards Braye Harbour. A short distance before drawing level with Alderney the thin end of some V-shaped disturbed water appeared to shoot northwards across my bow. I say 'appeared' because I may have been in a body of south-going water impinging on another body of water and constraining it to adopt its V-shape.

I hoved to and watched. The width of the V of disturbed water increased steadily as it travelled north and eventually I moved across it.

Never having seen anything like that, and not knowing the right words to describe it, I wonder what was really happening, and whether anyone can explain it.

 

[rotrax]

I see a similar thing when the incoming tide is fighting the outflow of the Arun at littlehampton. A large 'vee', pointed end first, travelling up the river.

 

[Supertramp]

Probably tide changing or an eddy, not uncommon in areas of strong tide like Alderney. Seen similar around Bardsey Sound. Quite disconcerting to watch your SOG and COG change dramatically.