Brighton to Fulham by boat

Pilotage Plan from Brighton, GB to Fulham, GB

Overview

This journey from Brighton to Fulham offers a delightful mix of coastal and river cruising with a variety of scenic views, historical landmarks, and potential shelter points along the way. Designed for mid-range boaters with a sound understanding of navigation and coastal sailing, this route can be safely traversed with proper planning and attention to local conditions.

Route Section 1: Departure from Brighton

Starting Point: Brighton, GB Coordinates: Long -0.10194, Lat 50.81024

Begin your journey at the Brighton Marina, where you can fuel up and gather provisions if needed. As you navigate out of the marina, pay attention to the local marine traffic and maintain a safe distance from swimmers and small craft in the area.

Hazards and Navigation Aids:

• The Brighton Pier is a well-known landmark; keep it to starboard as you exit.
• Watch for shallow areas as you leave the coast, particularly around the Worthing area. Be sure to refer to local charts for depth information.

Route Section 2: Along the Sussex Coast

As you head westward along the Sussex coast towards the River Adur, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the South Downs. This stretch is relatively straightforward, but keep an eye out for the following:

• Notable Landmarks: Look for the Seven Sisters Cliffs to the east; they are iconic in the area and make for great photographic opportunities.
• Shelter Points: If the weather turns unfavorable, you can take shelter in Shoreham Harbour. It is a busy port, so be sure to follow their guidance for entry and stay alert for commercial traffic.

Route Section 3: Entering the River Adur

Once you reach Shoreham, you can either continue around to the entrance of the River Adur or drop anchor in the harbour.

• River Entrance Considerations: The entrance can be shallow, especially at low tide. Watch for buoys indicating the channel.
• Points of Interest: The area around the Adur offers charming local cafes and scenery ideal for a short stop-off.

Route Section 4: Navigating Up the River Thames

After leaving Shoreham, you’ll head back toward the Thames estuary, navigating through a mix of urban and natural landscapes.

• Hazards: This area is characterized by commercial shipping lanes. Use extreme caution as you approach the mouth of the River Thames and adhere to all traffic separation schemes.
• Navigational Aids: Be sure to rely on the well-placed buoys and beards along the Thames for guidance. A good radar system will assist significantly in identifying large vessels.

Route Section 5: Approaching Fulham

Transitioning further along the Thames, you’ll want to take note of Westminster and the iconic landmarks along the waterfront.

• Local Points of Interest: As you approach Fulham, places like the Hammersmith Bridge and the Thames diamond Jubilee Gardens offer a perfect opportunity for sightseeing and leisure.
• Entry Points: Fulham doesn’t have any direct marina access for larger vessels; however, you can drop anchor safely in the river, but be mindful of local regulations regarding anchoring.

Safety and Navigation Apps

With the complexity of the River Thames, it is vital to stay informed. Utilize apps that can assist in navigation. Savvy Navvy is excellent for route planning and real-time weather updates. Other apps worth considering include:

• Navionics: For detailed charts.
• My Tide Times: To closely monitor tidal changes along the Thames.
• Windy: For real-time weather conditions.

Conclusion

This route from Brighton to Fulham encapsulates the essence of English coastal cruising and river navigation. While safety is paramount, the trip boasts numerous stopping points where boaters can enjoy local attractions and scenic views. Maintaining awareness of the weather and local regulations will ensure a smooth and safe passage, making it a memorable journey for any seasoned mariner or adventurous newcomer. Remember, respect for the waterways is key; ensure that your boat is prepared, your navigation aids are operational, and you’re ready to enjoy the beautiful experience that awaits you on the water.