HOW TO SAIL THE BRISTOL CHANNEL

When sailing the Bristol Channel, the tide is king. The tidal range here exceeds anything encountered elsewhere in UK waters. It makes for swift currents and demands proficiency in accurate depth calculations. Plans must include awareness of these tidal streams as well as ensuring that there is enough rise of tide to cross shallows or enter havens. Some ports and havens dry out, making the ability to take the ground a boon. Options do remain for deep keel craft even though sometimes they may need to anchor outside the harbour confines. Some marinas or ports employ lock gates or cills to maintain their water levels; do your homework to ensure that your arrival time falls within the access period.

The mouth of the Bristol Channel faces west, leaving its waters wide open to Atlantic wind and wave systems. Gales and storms can sweep unchecked south of Ireland into the wide-open scoop of the Bristol Channel. The resulting conditions can be extreme, causing surges. Be careful to avoid windover-tide conditions, and beware the fast currents and overfalls round headlands and islands.

Planning is key. Good conditions and accurate tidal flow understanding can prevent a nausea-inducing fight against adverse overfalls with slow progress through streams whipped up by contrary winds in favour of a swift calm passage past breathtaking scenery. Some currents can virtually stop your yacht’s headway to the inevitable annoyance of your crew.

Never rely on one favourable forecast – check a number of sources and choose the worst. Things can then only improve! Sailing these seas requires competence in almanac analysis, secondary port calculation, and weather prediction which in turn builds confidence and skill. Ensure your charts, pilot guides, and almanacs are up to date and accessible.