EAST COAST ANCHORAGES
The attraction of the East Coast’s mudbanks often puzzles berth-holders on the South Coast, but these fascinating backwaters have a desolate charm every yachtsman should experience. They have inspired some of the most enduring sailing literature. Fin and bilge-keelers will find plenty of empty anchorages – with only curlews and seals for company but you do not need to take the ground to enjoy this stunning coastline. Shifting banks do mean you will want up-to-date charts and an eye on the depth is advised.
At the eastern end of the Swale, between the Isle of Sheppey and the coast of mainland Kent, 31 HARTY FERRY
is at a cruising T-junction between the Thames approach channels and the north-south track up the East Coast. It has landing hards and pubs on both shores, plus high water access to the town of Faversham.
Heading up the River Roach is a typically East Coast adventure. There are plenty of good spots on the Roach and the deepwater runs fairly centrally southwards. As the river bends round to the west the best water favours the outside of the bend. This is 32 QUAY REACH
and there is plenty of room to anchor here with good shelter from strong winds, particularly those with a westerly component.
The south-east shore of 33 OSEA ISLAND
on the River Blackwater, on the downriver side from the ruined pier, offers a secure anchorage that is sheltered from wind with any north in it. The island itself is private and often rented out for parties and weddings but it remains a stunning spot to spend a night on the hook. Vessels bound for Maldon have probably anchored here for many years while waiting for the next tide to take them further upriver.
A favourite spot for many to anchor on the East Coast, 34 THE PYEFLEET offers great holding in thick mud, as with much of the Essex coast. Once your anchor is set here, it is well and truly set. The Pyefleet lies opposite the entrance to Brightlingsea Creek. There are a lot of moorings owned by the Colchester Oyster Fishery. Some of these have a ‘Visitor’ tag pointing out that you may be charged for the privilege of a night’s stay but anchoring is the free option. The Pyefleet shallows the further up you go.
Walton Backwaters is the Essex inlet featured in, and made famous by, the Swallows and Amazons books and is still suitable for entertaining youngsters – just don’t forget the pemmican. The anchorage within the entrance to the
35 WALTON CHANNEL is right alongside the