**Pilotage Plan: Granville, France to St Helier, Great Britain**This journey from Granville to St Helier ushers you into a realm of maritime beauty, merging serene waters with vibrant coastal landscapes. As you prepare to embark on this adventure, ensure your vessel is well-equipped and your crew is briefed on essential safety measures. This route is particularly suited for intermediate to experienced sailors, but with good weather and proper navigation, even motivated novices can manage this voyage.---**Route Overview**The planned route takes you across the English Channel, approximately 32 nautical miles, offering picturesque sights along the Normandy coastline and the Channel Islands. The prevailing northerly winds and tides present a charming rhythm to your sail, but vigilance is necessary when navigating these waters.---**Starting Point: Granville, France**Begin your journey at the bustling marina in Granville, known for its rich maritime history and scenic views. Before departing, check local weather conditions and tide schedules to optimize your crossing. Also, it’s worthwhile to explore the cliff-top views from the Granville headland or visit the nearby Christian Dior Museum if time permits.**Shelter Options:** If the weather worsens, consider heading back to Granville or seeking refuge in Cancale which lies along the coast.---**First Leg: Granville to Jersey Waters (Approx. 15 NM)**As you set out, keep an eye on the coastal navigation aids, particularly the Granville Light, which will guide you past the entrance of the harbor. Work your way out through the tide-ripped waters, being mindful of the need to stay on a safe course through the turbulent currents that can appear.**Points of Interest:**- **Chausey Islands:** A beautiful archipelago located to your west. While not directly on your route, they offer a delightful detour for a sheltered anchorage amidst the islands, particularly well-loved for their unique landscapes and tranquil waters.- **Cap de la Hague:** As you head across the bay, enjoy the stunning views of the cliffs and keep a watchful eye on the surrounding traffic.**Navigational Considerations:**Watch for navigational markers and ensure you have your route plotted on both paper charts and a reliable marine navigation app such as Savvy Navvy. Tides can be strong in this area, consider calculating the tidal streams to ensure smooth sailing through the challenging parts.---**Midway Point: Entering Jersey Waters**As you draw closer to Jersey, you’ll navigate through the busy shipping lanes. It's crucial to monitor your VHF radio for potential commercial traffic. The approach to St Helier comes with its own navigational aids, such as the La Corbière Lighthouse, which is easily recognizable and a key waypoint across the water.**Shelter Options:** Should conditions deteriorate, consider diverting to St Aubin's Bay, where you can find well-sheltered moorings.---**Destination: St Helier, Great Britain**Upon your arrival at St Helier, the bustling capital of Jersey, you’ll be greeted by a stunning harbor filled with sailing vessels. Make use of the visitor pontoon for ease of entry. St Helier is rich in culture and history; once secured, you can explore the local market, dine at ocean-view restaurants, or visit the Maritime Museum.**Local Regulations:**Upon arrival in Jersey, ensure you adhere to local customs regulations, check the tide schedules for your berthing, and familiarize yourself with the local maritime laws and community guidelines to ensure a smooth stay.---**Safety and Navigation Tips**- **Weather Monitoring:** Always check the weather before departure and during your journey. The English Channel is known for sudden changes in conditions.- **Traffic Awareness:** Stay vigilant for both commercial vessels and pleasure craft, especially as you approach Jersey waters. Keep a lookout for fishing boats and ensure you give them a wide berth.- **Emergency Protocols:** Ensure your safety equipment, including life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit, is ready and accessible. Brief your crew on emergency procedures.---This route not only promises scenic views and moments of joy but also respects the essential tenets of safe sailing. With proper planning, this voyage can be a memorable escape into the heart of maritime beauty. Enjoy your journey from Granville to St Helier, and may the winds be ever in your favor!