Pilotage Plan: Brighton, GB to Portsmouth, GB
Route Overview
This journey from Brighton to Portsmouth promises an engaging and scenic experience for the seasoned mariner and recreational boater alike. Stretching approximately 13 nautical miles along the beautiful South Coast of England, this route features a blend of stunning coastal views, potential points of interest, and essential safety considerations.
Start Point: Brighton Marina
Starting your voyage from Brighton Marina, you'll benefit from a well-equipped harbor with numerous facilities. Here, you can refuel, gather supplies, and even enjoy some local cuisine before setting off.
Navigational Considerations
As you depart Brighton, you'll want to keep a keen eye on the navigational aids. Make sure to follow the channel marked by buoys, particularly the “Brighton East” buoy at approximately 50° 47.799'N, 0° 05.847'W which guides vessels safely out through the main shipping routes. Keep a lookout for commercial shipping vessels; the Solent is known for its busy traffic.
Points of Interest:
Sheltering Options:
Navigational Aids
Upon nearing Shoreham, be sure to pay attention to the Shoreham Entrance buoys and their lights, which safely guide boats into the harbor, especially during low visibility.
Continuing west, set your course toward the Worthing area, being cautious of the submerged wreck at "Worthing Ledge," which lies within the vicinity marked on most nautical charts.
Next Points of Interest:
Sheltering Options:
Final Approach to Portsmouth
From Littlehampton onward, resume your course towards Portsmouth, keeping a vigilant watch on vessel traffic in the busy shipping lanes. You'll navigate past the impressive "Dunkirk Little Ships" and glide into the historic harbor of Portsmouth. Look out for the iconic Spinnaker Tower as you approach the entrance.
Approaching Portsmouth
As you near your destination, continue to monitor local AIS and listen to VHF channel 14 for harbor instructions. Portsmouth Harbour is always busy with ferry and naval traffic, so be aware of your surroundings.
End Point: Portsmouth Marina
Upon entering Portsmouth, you’ll be greeted by a bustling marina, rich in nautical heritage. The marina offers ample services and is a terrific spot to recharge after your journey. Make sure to check the local regulations upon docking; Portsmouth has specific security measures in place for visiting vessels.
Regulatory Considerations
Always respect local maritime regulations, which include speed limits in certain areas and environmental protections while mooring. Ensure that you are familiar with the tide schedules as well, since they can impact berthing and maneuvering in some places along your route.
Recommended Boating Apps
To enhance your navigation experience, consider using savvy navvy, along with other apps like Navionics and C-MAP, to provide you with detailed charts, weather updates, and route planning. Having this technology at your disposal ensures you remain both informed and safe throughout your journey.
Conclusion
Navigating from Brighton to Portsmouth offers a captivating mix of coastal beauty, local culture, and safe passage planning. This trip is particularly appealing for cruisers looking to blend leisure with a touch of adventure. Armed with this pilotage plan, you’ll be ready to take on the waters safely while reveling in the sights and experiences that the stunning South Coast has to offer.