Wisdom

Wunja

Wunja

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Can I pick on the forum's collective wisdom?

I'm just wondering if planning a North Sea crossing in late October would be exceedingly foolish.

My thought is that there is often a period of settled weather in October, but would welcome the advice of those with more experience.
 
Vince,

I can't see how its any different from any other time of the year. Keep an eye on the weather, and if it looks settled, then go for it, otherwise, resort to plan B!

Only thing I guess is that in Oct, there is a higher risk of you having to call it off than in the summer months
 
With forecasts as good as they are - I mean that, no joke intended - there is no reason why a late passage should not be undertaken. You may need to take into account the need to run nav lights for longer if going overnight, and especially the need to keep everyone warm. Many of us are used to summer sailing and it is easy to overlook quite how cold it can get out of season, and tiredness with mild hypothermia is a major cause of danger to sailors.
 
johnalison said:
With forecasts as good as they are - I mean that, no joke intended - there is no reason why a late passage should not be undertaken. You may need to take into account the need to run nav lights for longer if going overnight, and especially the need to keep everyone warm. Many of us are used to summer sailing and it is easy to overlook quite how cold it can get out of season, and tiredness with mild hypothermia is a major cause of danger to sailors.
Click to expand...

I would agree with that, some years ago I went on a late season trip to Oostende with friends, one member of the party was poorly equipped as far as clothing was concerned. I could see he was getting seriously cold and advised the skipper that he should go below, he refused to go as he felt sick. Eventually we had to forcibly persuade him down below and wrapped him in blankets. We also had to provide him with a handy bucket.

The next day he went home on the Jetfoil to Ramsgate. :D
 
Wunja said:
Can I pick on the forum's collective wisdom?

I'm just wondering if planning a North Sea crossing in late October would be exceedingly foolish.

My thought is that there is often a period of settled weather in October, but would welcome the advice of those with more experience.
Click to expand...

Main concern is if the wind headed you when underway - that's the same concern whatever the season.

Have a plan B ready to hand - there are plenty of good harbours facing you - and a good supply of gas to keep the hot drinks coming - to fight off the chillier conditions on deck!

Good sailing!

PWG
 
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