Pilotage Plan: Chichester to Portsmouth
Route Overview
Your journey from Chichester to Portsmouth takes you across a vibrant stretch of the Southern English coast, where you can experience both the tranquility of Chichester Harbour and the bustling maritime activity of Portsmouth Harbour. This route will navigate through a combination of scenic waters, notable landmarks, and potential hazards, ensuring that safety and pleasure remain paramount throughout the trip.
Departure from Chichester
Starting Point: Chichester, West Sussex, GB
Coordinates: Long/Lat -0.8320, 50.8020
As you set sail from Chichester, ensure that you check your vessel's systems and weather conditions prior to departure. Chichester Harbour offers a variety of sheltering bays, giving you options should the weather take a turn. The best places to head for include:
Itchenor: A picturesque village that serves as a great initial stop to ensure everything is in order. The anchorage here is generally calm.
Bosham: A charming spot with good shelter; famous for its historic church and beautiful views.
Navigational Considerations
Chichester Harbour is deeply tidal, and it’s crucial to factor in tidal streams while planning your departure. As you transfer into the main channel, keep an eye on:
Navigation Marks: The familiar 'Chichester Harbour Markers' guide you through the channel. Always keep red buoys to port and green buoys to starboard.
Local Regulations: Remember to adhere to a maximum speed limit of 8 knots in the Harbour and keep a watch for ferry traffic during busy periods.
As you leave the shelter of Chichester, set a course for the West through the sometimes-silvery surface of the water.
En Route Highlights
Leaving Chichester behind, the journey will take you out of the harbour and into the open sea. You'll soon come across several notable points of interest.
Selsey Bill: This is an important landmark for navigation and can be a lovely spot to anchor for a picnic or a short exploring session if time allows. It protrudes into the Solent and offers splendid views of the coastline ahead.
The Nab Tower: As you continue sailing, look out for the Nab Tower acting as a crucial navigational mark. It’s a good point to assess current conditions before entering the busy waters of the Solent.
Shelter and Bailout Options
While the open waters provide an exhilarating experience, conditions can change quickly. The following harbors are suitable for seeking refuge:
Langstone Harbour: A safe haven offering multiple anchorage points. It allows for a break if you experience strong winds.
Hayling Island: A sheltered retreat and a fantastic beach area to explore and enjoy a break.
Arrival in Portsmouth
Destination: Portsmouth, Hampshire, GB
Coordinates: Long/Lat -1.1075, 50.7948
As you approach Portsmouth, the city skyline glimmers, teeming with maritime history. Portsmouth Harbour has excellent facilities for visiting vessels, and you should be prepared for increased traffic from ferries, navy ships, and yachts.
Final Navigational Aids
Pay attention to:
Portsmouth Entrance Buoy: This marks the entrance to Portsmouth Harbour and is essential for safely entering.
Naval Base Restrictions: Watch for signs or local notices restricting access to certain areas. Always maintain a safe distance from vessels engaged in naval operations.
Conclusion
This carefully planned route from Chichester to Portsmouth offers a diverse and enjoyable experience for boaters of all types, while prioritizing safety at every turn. You can relish the tranquil settings, vibrant marine life, and fascinating sights, knowing you have safe options for shelter and respite along the way.
For navigational support, consider using apps like Savvy Navvyamong others to track your position, tides, and local weather conditions to ensure a safe and memorable journey. This route is perfectly suited for novice to experienced sailors, inviting you to create wonderful memories on the water, yet always keeping you securely anchored in safety. Enjoy your trip!