Pilotage Plan: Plymouth, GB to Cornwall, GB
Starting Point: Plymouth, GB
Coordinates: Longitude -4.15658175945282, Latitude 50.36690109094148
As you prepare to leave the vibrant and historic port of Plymouth, take a moment to soak in the stunning views of the maritime city, known for its naval history and beautiful waterfront. Your journey will take you westward towards picturesque Cornwall, so ensure your boat is in good condition, your navigation systems are updated, and you have appropriate safety gear onboard.
Route Overview
The distance from Plymouth to Cornwall is relatively short, approximately 8 nautical miles, but the route is packed with maritime charm and stunning coastal scenery. The passage will lead you through a mix of busy shipping lanes and serene waters.
Section 1: Departing Plymouth
As you set sail, pay careful attention to the navigational aids in Plymouth Sound. Look out for the iconic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse which assists in navigating the entrance. This area can be busy with both commercial shipping and recreational traffic, so maintaining a proper lookout is essential.
Hazards:
Strong Tidal Currents: Be mindful of the tidal streams, especially during springs when currents are at their strongest.
Traffic Separation Scheme: As you approach the busy waters leading to the English Channel, keep an eye on the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) to navigate safely through the busy lanes.
Points of Interest:
Section 2: En Route Highlights
As you make your way towards Cornwall, you’ll pass the beautiful coastline peppered with rocky outcrops and hidden coves. Here are some notable features:
Mount Edgecumbe Park: On the East side of the Sound, this historic park offers a glimpse into beautiful gardens and scenic walking trails.
The Rame Peninsula: A rugged area with stunning cliffs, where you may want to slow down and take in the views.
There are two excellent bays for shelter should the weather change:
Polhawn Cove: A secluded bay just off the coast, offering good shelter from the prevailing westerly winds. The shallow waters allow for safe anchorage, but do be cautious of rocky outcrops.
Cawsand Bay: This village bay provides more facilities and is a great place to consider a stop if weather conditions deteriorate.
Section 3: Approaching Cornwall
As you near Cornwall, pay close attention to the surrounding navigation buoys and markers. The area is rich with maritime history, and you may encounter local fishing vessels or ferry traffic, especially near Cawsand.
Navigational Aids to Use:
Ensure you’re constantly checking your radar and charts for markers indicating the nearby navigation points and potential obstacles. The Eddystone Lighthouselies southwest and serves as a great reference point for positioning.
Regulations and Local Restrictions:
Safety First
Always keep updated weather information at your disposal. Use savvy navvyfor route planning and live weather updates. Other valuable apps for nautical navigation include Navionics, which can help maintain situational awareness on your route, and MarineTrafficfor tracking nearby vessels.
Destination: Cornwall, GB
Coordinates: Longitude -4.1977898, Latitude 50.3534214
Arriving in Cornwall, you'll be greeted by the enchanting scenery of sandy beaches and rugged coastlines, perfect for a leisurely visit or lunch at the seaside cafes. This trip is especially well-suited for intermediate boaters with a basic understanding of navigation and marine regulations, ensuring both safety and enjoyment while sailing through one of the UK's most stunning coastal areas.
In conclusion, with careful planning, constant vigilance, and an appreciation for the surroundings, this route from Plymouth to Cornwall promises not only safety at sea but also an adventure through some of England’s most beautiful coastal landscapes. Happy boating!