Sailing from the UK to Portugal, Across the Bay of Biscay

[boatman61]

Why stay away from Ushant...
Its not like it gets busy on that corner....

[MacG]

Originally Posted by Dockhead

That's what I would do -- if I had time enough for it.

It's a very pleasant journey along the English South Coast, too -- 50 or 60 miles at a time with the tide under you, and pleasant places to stop. Why not do it if you have the time?

Dockhead is right. I did it a few times and even with a moderate weather-window chances are that you hit the button.
Even in July, I faced 3-4 meter waves. It is bearable be it uncomfortable. Seamanship definitely required. On the other hand, most people made it, keep your head cool and your feet warm, so to say.

Falmouth is the ideal starting place.

[boatman61]

Originally Posted by boatman61

Why stay away from Ushant...
Its not like it gets busy on that corner....

Just kidding folks.... its not really like that......
Those ships...They're all at anchor in the Marmara....

[edsailing]

Hey, we're talking June here, less than 5% chance of a gale.......this is a bread and butter run for me (and I guess a lot of other delivery skippers).

At this time of year, as a first timer, I nwould suggest a start from either Plymouth or Falmouth. If the weather is reasonably settled, don't worry too much a about 'weather windows'.

Cross the channel, cross the TSS and pass Ushant between the TSS and Ushant in the inshore zone. If you don't feel brave enough to do that, stand out west a bit further before heading south.

After that, straight down to Bayona, one of my favorites, maybe a trip up the rias.

You'll pick up northerly winds down the coast of Spain and Portugal and have the current with you as well.

I reckon on 6 days from Plymouth to Lagos on the Algarve in a boat like yours, if you don't stop.... about 850 miles, but if you have the time stop a while.

Hope this helps

[Pete7]

Originally Posted by MacG

But the season of 2012 I will go to Scotland and the outer Hebrides. Never been there and I want to smell the waiting waters of the Minx.

Fabulous sailing and superb scenery in one of Europes least populated places. Enjoy

Pete

[Toys_with_time]

Originally Posted by Chantal

We are taking delivery of our new Dufour 405GL in April next year, so excited... and are planning to sail her with a total of 4 on board, to the Med in June.

The question is which is the best/easiest route... some people have recommended we sail from the Hamble over to Guernsey and then start the leg accross the Bay to la Coruna from there, others say, going along the English coat to Plymouth and kicking off from there would be best.

I am sure it is personal preference, but I would welcome any thoughts from those who have done it, either way or both...

Just to throw an alternative into the mix we coast hopped this summer down the Atlantic coast of France to Hendaye on the French / Spanish border then port hopped along the north coast of Spain to La Coruna before heading down to the med. The Northern coast offers loads of wonderful (and cheap / free) places to visit although the water is a tad cold and as everyone seems to head straight for La Coruna we never had a problem finding a place to stay.

Bon voyage

TwT

[exmariner]

You have had some good advice above I hope a little more will help also.The old adage " get as much westing as possible" does I think apply at least so far as your departure ports are concerned. UK south coast as far as Falmouth and then as this will probably be your first lengthy cross channel trip in the new boat head for inside Ushant and avoid the TTS. To gain the tide leave Falmouth a couple of hours before LW which should see you at the top of Le Four just before HW then carry the ebb tide down. If happy and not in need of stores or fuel, carry on through the Raz to Audierne. If you want a break to consolidate either Camaret or the one of the two marinas in Brest. I would suggest getting through the Raz before kicking off across the bay but its just a matter of taste and time. So safe passage and fair winds. Exmariner