This year’s travel restrictions put restless sailors in a dilemma: do you stick to familiar cruising grounds, or risk the uncertainty of travel abroad? Perhaps the perfect solution lies in the middle, or more specifically in
the Channel, and the proudly maritime island of Jersey, which is part of the UK’s Common Travel Area.
Combine a mild climate, one of the world’s greatest tidal ranges and a coastline of cliffs, beaches, reefs and pretty harbours and you have a sailor’s paradise that’s still part of the British Isles. That tidal range – up to 12m, or two miles of intertidal zone – presents fascinating navigational challenges for novices and experts alike, as well as wonderfully varied areas to discover.
The sea is a playground for islanders, and if you want a day off sailing you can join windsurfers in St. Ouen, head out on a RIB to spot dolphins and seals, or dive for scallops to cook for supper. The rocky north coast, with its pink granite cliffs and dramatic caves is best explored by RIB. Jersey Seafaris’ North Coast trip lets you explore every nook and cranny; you’ll get a fish-eye view of Devil’s Hole cave and hear stories of smuggling and historic seafaring.
A unique way to enjoy low tide is a two-mile guided walk to Seymour Tower, an 18th century defensive fort between sea and land, where you can also stay overnight. Finally, as the salt dries in your hair, head to the Royal Channel Islands Yacht Club in St. Aubin for a meal with one of the best views in the island. Tuck into fish and chips and plan your next day at sea.
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