The English Channel

The well-known English Channel is one of those areas that probably every sailor wants to explore. It is a part of the Atlantic Ocean and joins it to the North Sea. The English Channel separates the island of Britain from the north of France and it is a very busy sailing area. The whole year round it is extremely crowded with both commercial and leisure traffic. The Channel is 350 miles long and it is quite shallow as its average depth between Dover and Calais is less than 50 meters.

The climate in the English Channel is mild. Summers bring fine weather but sailors must be prepared for periods of rain, stronger winds and often poor visibility. You may easily predict the 48 hour windows of good weather but there are problems with longer periods as changes are possible. Winters in the English Channel are mainly windy and rainy, but many sailors choose this time of the year as the area is less crowded.

Sailing Areas in the English Channel

East part of the English Channel is a densely populated area with intensify commercial traffic. It is the narrowest part of the Channel, so it is also the best way to get to the other side of it. The traffic is managed by the TSS and smaller boats are not allowed to cross it or they must do it in the approved manner. There is enough ports but no anchorages.

The area of the Isle of Wright and nearby waters is one of the best facilitated spots for sailors but also very crowded one. It is well sheltered, has muddy tidal lakes and amazing anchorages right next to the cliffs. If you are not afraid of crowds of people, this place is perfect for cruising. And when you decide to get off the boat, you will find many welcoming pubs to rest in.

South West England is also a great place to set out on the cruise. There are many important facilities for sailors and the area is much quieter than that of the Isle of Wright. What is more, the South West England is also the easiest area to sail in the English Channel. The navigation is easy, the pilotage is straightforward, and you sail during the day from one port to the other. The landscapes here are extraordinary and you may visit some lovely villages that are situated in picturesque valleys.

Another English Channel sailing area, which is the Channel Islands and nearby France, is good for those sailors who like challenges in pilotage and navigation. As the tides here are very strong you must go with the flow, and sometimes get up very early in the morning to catch the tide. The Channel Islands and nearby France are full of harbors and anchorages, but there are plenty offshore attractions as well. You may anchor in some peaceful archipelago but also get off the boat in the most popular holiday towns.

Cruising area of the north and west Brittany also requires good navigation and pilotage skills, and it also may mean early getting up to catch the tide. However, it is a great place for sailing as there are many harbors and anchorages. The area is very popular among tourists so in the peak season sailors should be prepared for crowds of people.