HOW TO SAIL THE WEST COAST OF WALES

Along the Welsh coast the ability to take the ground is a boon.

Many havens and estuaries are shallow or dry out, though ample options do remain for deep keel craft. An access over a shallow bar can be fraught with difficulties in adverse conditions; a dropping tide with a westerly Force 7 often causes fearsome breakers that make many havens unapproachable. Use your common sense and don’t take things for granted.

The key ingredient is forward planning. Good conditions and accurate tidal timings can prevent a yacht-tossing fight against an adverse choppy tidal stream in favour of a swift, calm passage past gorgeous scenery; don’t let the pressures of your diary spoil your sailing. Cross-referencing a variety of weather forecasts is advisable – I have learnt never to rely on the most favourable prediction. Use the worst, and things can only improve. High winds can whip up the sea conditions – the tidal stream in narrow sounds can top six knots, and overfalls can create dangerous conditions off headlands. Wind and tidal flow must be considered in partnership as their interaction can be benign or vitriolic.

As the Bristol Channel enjoys the world’s second greatest tidal range, a lot of water traverses its entrance. These streams generate unpassable tidal gates around headlands and in narrow channels; in Pembrokeshire missing a tidal gate can be a real spoiler. Using the tides to your advantage can speed you swiftly on your way at double the normal cruising speed. The area compels proficiency in almanac analysis and secondary port calculations, which in turn builds confidence and skill.

Careful study of local pilot guides is invaluable for approach lines, hazards, buoyage, and details of anchorages and havens. Up to date charts are essential – whether on a tablet, laptop or paper, they need to be instantly accessible.