Saint Brieuc to Roscoff by boat

Pilotage Plan: From Saint Brieuc to Roscoff, France

Embarking on this journey from Saint Brieuc to Roscoff offers a beautiful blend of scenic views, historical landmarks, and the thrill of navigating along the northern coast of Brittany. This route is particularly suitable for experienced sailors and coastal cruisers looking for a mix of safety, comfort, and discovery.

Departure: Saint Brieuc

Starting Point: Saint Brieuc, Brittany Coordinates: Long/Lat -2.748290598392486, 48.52320081843561

Saint Brieuc serves as an excellent staging point with robust harbor facilities, including comprehensive services for provisioning and fuel. Before setting sail, it’s wise to take stock of the weather conditions, as conditions in the bay can change rapidly.

Notable Bays for Shelter

• Paimpol Bay: Located about 12 nautical miles southeast of Saint Brieuc, Paimpol Bay is a delightful haven, offering well-sheltered anchorage should the weather get dicey. The town is known for its rich maritime history and charming streets where sailors can refuel and enjoy local cuisine.

• Tréguier River: Just a little further south is the Tréguier River. This picturesque river opens up into a beautiful landscape with calming waters, ideal for those looking to take a respite along their route. The small town of Tréguier, with its ancient abbey and quaint atmosphere, is perfect for a brief exploration.

The Route: Navigational Considerations

1. Departure from Saint Brieuc: Exiting the harbor, be mindful of the shallows along the approach – maintain a course of approximately 220° to navigate out efficiently through the outer harbor channel.

2. Navigating Along the Coast: As you set your course toward Roscoff, consider hugging the coastal line to avoid deeper offshore currents. The coast is dotted with rocky outcrops and sandbanks, so maintaining a vigilant watch on your chartplotter and a lookout for visual aids is crucial.

3. Headland Passage: Watch out as you approach the Plouha area, particularly the cliffs and rocks of Cap D’Erquy. Navigational aids like buoys marking these areas will be vital. The cliffs are both stunning and hazardous, providing a breathtaking backdrop but posing risks of sudden gusts and fluctuations in tide.

4. Rounding the Point: Crossing the entrance to the Bay of St. Brieuc requires careful assessment of tidal timings. The tide can be quite strong here, often causing rough waters that can be challenging to predict. Use of tide tables from a reliable source is paramount.

Points of Interest

• Île de Bréhat: A slight detour off your route, this stunning island known for its dramatic coastline and botanical gardens is worth a visit if time permits. The sheltered anchorages around the island provide ample protection and a unique opportunity to explore quaint villages and hiking paths.

• Dinan and the Rance River: While not directly on the route, a visit to the medieval town of Dinan, situated along the Rance River, is rewarding. It allows for a short trek inland and provides a glimpse into Brittany's rich rich history.

Arrival: Roscoff

Destination: Roscoff, Brittany Coordinates: Long/Lat -3.9681673049926762, 48.71780231275655

As you approach Roscoff, be sure to follow the channel marked out by buoys. The harbor can get busy, especially with ferry traffic, so take care when entering. Roscoff offers comfortable marina facilities and has all amenities a boater might require.

Safety and Regulations

Throughout your journey, maintain a lookout for fishing vessels, especially in the vicinity of sandy beaches and rocky outcrops. Adhere to local fishing and boating regulations, which can vary along different stretches of the coastline. It’s advisable to check for local notices to mariners, ensuring a safe passage.

Recommended Boating Apps:

• Savvy Navvy: This user-friendly app provides real-time weather updates, tide data, and a simple navigation interface.
• Navionics: For detailed charts of the area, using Navionics can enhance situational awareness while on the go.
• Windy: An excellent tool for monitoring wind patterns before and during your voyage.

Conclusion

The journey from Saint Brieuc to Roscoff encapsulates the essence of Brittany's coastal beauty, blending adventure with safety. Whether you choose to explore quaint harbors or enjoy the natural majesty of the French coastline, this route promises a rewarding experience for boater enthusiasts. Always prioritize safety by respecting the sea and its conditions, and ensure all navigational aids are easily accessible. Enjoy your voyage!