Lomma to Snekkersten by boat

Pilotage Plan: Lomma, Sweden to Snekkersten, Denmark

Embarking on a journey from Lomma, Sweden, to Snekkersten, Denmark, presents a remarkable opportunity to explore the scenic waters of the Øresund Strait. This route is perfect for adventurous cruisers and day sailors who appreciate both the allure of nature and the safety of well-charted waters. While prioritizing safety ensures an enjoyable experience, there are also many points of interest and opportunities for respite should conditions change.

Route Overview

Starting Point: Lomma, Sweden
Coordinates: 13.0608° E, 55.6750° N

Your journey begins in Lomma, a quaint seaside town with a delightful marina. Before leaving, take a moment to enjoy the picturesque beach and the local cafés offering fresh seafood.

Final Destination: Snekkersten, Denmark
Coordinates: 12.5875° E, 56.0084° N

The final destination, Snekkersten, is known for its charming atmosphere and the historic Snekkersten Marina, making it an ideal place to end your voyage.

Key Hazards and Navigational Considerations

1. Tidal Currents: The Øresund Strait experiences significant tidal currents, so it's essential to be aware of the tide tables before departure. The currents can affect your speed and course, so planning around high and low tides can optimize your transit time.
2. Shipping Traffic: The route intersects with busy shipping lanes, especially near Malmö and Kastrup. Vessels navigating these waters must keep a continuous lookout and adhere to navigation safety principles. When nearing commercial ports, maintain your distance from large vessels and obey any instructions from the VTS (Vessel Traffic Service).
3. Depths and Hazards: As you navigate southward from Lomma, be mindful of shallower areas and unmarked hazards. Keep an eye on navigational charts which highlight key channels. Notable hazards include the shoals in the vicinity of Helsingborg, so pay close attention to your depth sounder and always have up-to-date electronic charts onboard.

Points of Interest Along the Route

Malmö: A quick detour into Malmö can be rewarding. The Turning Torso, a striking piece of architecture, is visible from the water, and you can take a break to explore the waterfront parks. Remember to monitor the local harbor regulations while docked.

Kastrup: This area features modern commercial harbors with a variety of facilities. It's an excellent rest point should the weather turn sour, as there are sheltered docks and ample services available.

Köpenhamn (Copenhagen): Although slightly off the direct route, a visit to Copenhagen’s vibrant harbor can be enticing. The famous Nyhavn is always a buzz of activity, and it's a perfect place to moor overnight if conditions permit.

Helsingborg: Just before heading towards Snekkersten, the harbor here offers excellent shelter. Helsingborg’s medieval castle, Kärnan, can be viewed from the water, making it an attractive historical landmark.

Suggested Shelters Along the Route

Rundvik (Just south of Lomma): This small bay offers good protection from westerly winds where you can anchor safely should the weather deteriorate.

Köge Bay: Located before reaching Snekkersten, this expansive bay provides numerous sheltered spots to take refuge if needed.

Navigational Aids and Regulations

As you traverse this route, keep in mind the following navigational aids:

Buoys and Marks: Watch for navigational buoys marked in the Danish and Swedish systems, typically conforming to IALA standards. Always verify their positions against your chart plotter.

Traffic Separation Schemes: Familiarize yourself with these designated lanes for maritime traffic to ensure safe navigation among larger vessels.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensure you have the required documentation, including local harbor permits if necessary. The marinas may have specific regulations regarding waste disposal and fueling, so it’s prudent to familiarize yourself with them.

Final Thoughts

This route from Lomma to Snekkersten promises both safety and adventure. Carefully navigating the waters while keeping up to date on weather conditions and charting your course will result in a successful trip. Equip yourself with apps like Savvy Navvy for real-time tracking and guidance on this journey, ensuring both an enjoyable and secure experience at sea. Enjoy the diverse scenery, rich culture, and the camaraderie of fellow boaters along the way! Happy cruising!