Transit of English Channel.

[inchcailloch]

I am intending taking a yacht single handed (used to solo sailing) East to West of English channel. Margate to Scilly Isands. Any advice ie, how far out on English side to have weakest currents/tides?

[goboatingnow]

Originally Posted by inchcailloch

I am intending taking a yacht single handed (used to solo sailing) East to West of English channel. Margate to Scilly Isands. Any advice ie, how far out on English side to have weakest currents/tides?

In general the English side has less tides , I’ve generally always come down that side , watch out for the few known overfalls etc , Lyme bay etc

[muttnik]

Originally Posted by inchcailloch

I am intending taking a yacht single handed (used to solo sailing) East to West of English channel. Margate to Scilly Isands. Any advice ie, how far out on English side to have weakest currents/tides?

The admiralty tidal atlas for the English channel NP250 is probably your friend here. Obviously avoid the areas directly between the dover / casquettes / scilly tss-es. All normal caveats would apply including treating portland bill with respect with any significant wind over tide. Might judicious use of the anchor to get some kip with foul tide be an alternative to a heroic one-hit voyage?