Solo Channel crossing

Avocet · 21 May 2010, 11:41

Unless anyone wants to accompany me to Alderney on Sunday (see Upcoming Cruises section), I am considering doing the crossing solo.

What do people here think about this with a crew of three or four adults in a single engine boat on the basis that conditions (weather and sea state) will be favourable, that the boat has been regularly and properly serviced/maintained and has both fixed and handheld VHF and GPS, active radar reflector and all other usual safety equipment (offshore flares, fog horn etc)? Boat is also CG66 registered and FWIW the passage will be called in to the Coastguard with people ashore knowing intentions and ETA.

Ian M · 21 May 2010, 11:53

I cannot comment on the safety or otherwise of this venture, but I really wish I felt ready for a trip such as this. As it is time, money, and lack of preparedness rule it out this year. Good luck. Hope all goes well whatever you decide.

NautiSeacrets · 21 May 2010, 12:13

I for one wouldn't have a hang up about going, with the proviso on weather, sea state etc etc.

In fact done it many times, given a twin shaft or twin sterndrive setup.

Only ever caught a net once coming back across, nasty bleeder, the ensuing insurance co. were fantastic. All credit to Towergate. £23k claim.

In three words? Go Go Go !!!

DJL · 21 May 2010, 13:11

I'd be quite happy to do it (and have in the past). You seem well prepared

Phil · 21 May 2010, 13:25

done it a few times BUT was on a Humber

martini · 21 May 2010, 13:55

If the motors in good shape I say go for it

With the number of other vessels making the trip at this time of year its no different to cruising in company.

John Kennett · 21 May 2010, 14:11

Avocet, it sounds like you've thought it through - I'd go for it.

Don't be too fixated on the trip though. If things start to unravel then don't fight it. There will always be another time.

Whatever happens don't forget to take pictures!

GJ0KYZ · 21 May 2010, 16:35

I've done it solo in a smaller boat with only one engine. I did have radar though and AIS/MARPA. These could have been useful in the shipping lanes if it had been foggy, which it wasn't. You'll probably be at sea for no more than two hours so I'd just go for it.

PeterM · 21 May 2010, 17:01

I have been very tempted to abandon my plans with family on Sunday and come along, but knowing the boat/ set up I don't feel it would be foolhardy to go alone in your boat.

The usual worries I am sure will come round & vanish as you make progress.

As you say - good forecast - everything you could sensibly need - throw in a couple of bottles of water just in case and I suspect an easy cruise all the way. If the weather turns - either turn round or press on - whichever the safer option and with enough range I guess something you can do at any point.

enjoy !

Pete

HUMBER P4VWL · 21 May 2010, 17:22

Check your insurance covers you far enough from a safe haven for your journey....then start packing. You sound fully prepared to me. Have fun!

BogMonster · 21 May 2010, 21:11

It's an odd thing isn't it - I am the same. We cheerfully go off and spend 2-3 hours cruising around doing 50 odd miles going round in circles, no problems and never give it a second thought, but the thought of doing the same in a straight line somehow seems far more daunting! It is something I have resolved to get over when the new tub arrives

Avocet · 21 May 2010, 23:42

Thanks guys for all the support, which only serves to reinforce my own current thoughts.

May yet have company, but either way will keep a watch on sea state and weather and, subject thereto, will try solo with self, Mrs A and two friends as crew who have all also done the crossing with me before (although on different occasions with other boats).

A crossing without another boat is something that I always said I'd never do; but as time goes on: why not?

As Stephen says: you can do the same distance in circles, so why not in a straight line?

John: will be sure to take lots of photos and will post.

Keep posting!

Hightower · 22 May 2010, 02:04

Wish I was coming too!

Have a terrific day out, sounds like a brilliant adventure to me.

tim griffin · 22 May 2010, 06:26

Enjoy the trip .
Tim

Tony · 22 May 2010, 08:13

Keep an eye on the forecast...its supposed to blow up to a 5 in Guernsey today..

http://www.thisisguernsey.com/travel/weather/

Channel Light Ship

It will be a long way in a F5..

Just my 2p's worth.

Tony

biffer · 22 May 2010, 08:16

post how you felt when there was no sight of land and nothing else about

Tony · 22 May 2010, 08:21

Quote:

Originally Posted by biffer

post how you felt when there was no sight of land and nothing else about

Ha...its quite unnerving as your rib seems to become very small all of a sudden..

biffer · 22 May 2010, 08:23

you know it

, nice music helps

Erin · 22 May 2010, 09:28

The only thing that would stop me is the sea-state. You are obviously as prepared as anyone with the right kit and a well maintained boat. I've made numerous trips Jersey to Alderney (45nm) single handed in my old 5.8 rib, but never in anything over a F3. Arriving in the mid-morning you should have wind with tide for the last part of the journey at least. Windfinder.com does a good wind forecast for Alderney, and you'll get CI weather on Jerseymet.gov.je. TBH, I find solo trips sometimes easier because you can go at your own speed and don't have anyone else to worry about.

Hightower · 22 May 2010, 09:29

Quote:

Originally Posted by biffer

you know it

, nice music helps

Shutting your eyes helps too, just imagine you're in the Solent

It's when you start hearing funny little noises that are normally always there, but you start becoming super sensitive to and become paranoid during the passage.....

Best to switch the music up then