Pilotage Plan: Chichester to Shoreham by Sea
Departure Point: Chichester, West Sussex, United Kingdom
Your journey begins in the charming harbor of Chichester, a bustling boating hub with ample facilities. Before setting off, ensure your vessel is fully equipped, and familiarize yourself with the marine charts of the area. Be mindful of the tides as they have a significant impact on your navigation in this region.
Section 1: Leaving Chichester Harbor
As you depart Chichester Harbor, watch for the meticulously placed navigational aids. The red and green buoys marking the channel should guide you safely out. Keep a lookout for the Chichester Marina entrance on your starboard and take in the view of the surrounding countryside. The harbor can get busy, so it's essential to navigate carefully among the many local boats and yachts—especially during weekends.
Point of Interest: Chichester CathedralBefore leaving the harbor, admire the stunning Chichester Cathedral from the water. Its impressive architecture, observable from the harbor, is a lovely sight.
Section 2: Navigating the Chichester Channel
After passing through the entrance, you’ll follow the marked Chichester Channel. The channel is well-marked, but be cautious of the tidal flows and shallow waters. Always pay attention to the tide tables to avoid grounding, especially as you approach the Bognor Regis area.
Safe Haven: Selsey BillIf the weather starts to turn, Selsey Bill is a recommended spot for shelter. The location provides protection from easterly winds and has good facilities nearby.
Section 3: Entering the Solent
As you make your way towards the Solent, keep an eye out for the warm hues of the South Downs national park, particularly the dramatic cliffs at Southwick. The entrance into the Solent offers a change in scenery—expect more traffic, including larger vessels. Adhere to the IALA buoyage system while you navigate through the busy waters.
Useful Navigational Aids:
Section 4: Towards Shoreham by Sea
Continue on your route, weaving through the Solent and heading to the Adur River entrance. You’ll catch sight of Shoreham’s historic town to your port side as you near your destination. Watch for fishing boats and commercial ships that frequent the channel—staying vigilant is paramount here.
Safeguard Tier: Local RegulationsThere are specific speed limits and zones in the river area. Familiarize yourself with the local regulations and any ongoing conservation efforts that protect local wildlife. Always keep an eye on the weather updates, as conditions can change quickly.
Section 5: Arrival at Shoreham by Sea
Upon arrival, you’ll find Shoreham Port—a good spot to dock and explore. Shoreham itself is filled with delightful cafes and spots for refreshments after your journey.
Point of Interest: Shoreham BeachTake a moment to enjoy the beautiful pebble beach and perhaps grab an ice cream from one of the local vendors. The beach is ideal for a bit of relaxation after the trip.
Final Thoughts:
This route is particularly suitable for leisure boaters looking for a relatively short yet scenic journey through the waters of West Sussex. With ample opportunities for shelter, local points of interest, and clearly marked navigational aids, you can feel confident and safe at sea. Always ensure your boating apps like Savvy Navvy are ready to assist you with real-time weather and navigation data to ensure smooth sailing.
Plan your trip wisely, pay attention to your surroundings, and enjoy the incredible beauty that the South Coast of England has to offer!