Swansea to Tenby by boat

Pilotage Plan: Swansea, GB to Tenby, GB

Overview
This cruise from Swansea to Tenby offers a delightful journey along the stunning Pembrokeshire coast of Wales. The route encapsulates a mix of breathtaking coastal scenery, charming harbors, and opportunities for exploration—all while ensuring safety is the utmost priority. This trip is perfect for recreational boaters who have some experience navigating coastal waters, and it is particularly suitable for sailboats and motorboats that can handle variable sea conditions.

Route Details

1. Departure from Swansea

• Begin your journey in Swansea Bay, where you can easily access the bustling marina. Be aware of the tidal conditions, as Swansea experiences significant tidal ranges. It’s recommended to plan your departure around high tide for easier navigation out of the river.

1. Navigating Swansea Bay

• As you exit the bay, keep an eye on the Swansea Barand Swansea Lighthouse, both of which serve as crucial navigational markers. Watch out for fishing vessels and local boat traffic, especially during weekends.
• Look for the Mumbleslighthouse on your starboard side as you head west. It’s a lovely spot for photos and a reminder of the maritime heritage of the area.

1. Bays and Shelters Along the Route
   Port Eynon: Approximately 6 nautical miles from Swansea, this is a small, picturesque village with a sheltered beach. It’s a great stop for lunch or a brief walk on the shore.
   Oxwich Bay: Continuing southwest, Oxwich Bay offers beautiful sandy beaches and a shallow bay that provides excellent shelter from westerly winds. This area is popular for picnics and swimming, and you may spot some wildlife here, including seabirds and seals.
2. Entering the Gower Peninsula

• As you navigate around the Gower Peninsula, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. Be cautious of the tides as you pass the Worm’s Head, a tidal island that can become cut off. The views are splendid, but advance knowledge of tidal schedules is essential.
• Pay attention to navigational aids in this area, as there can be shifting sands.

1. Continuing to Tenby

• Keep an eye on your GPS and nautical charts as you approach Caldey Islandand the majestic cliffs. The area can be busy, so maintain a lookout for ferries and leisure boats.
• Approximately 5 nautical miles from Tenby, the coastal scenery becomes absolutely stunning, with the entrance to Tenby Harbour becoming visible.

Points of Interest
Tenby: Famous for its colorful terraced houses and a beautiful harbor, Tenby is a perfect final destination. Once you dock, enjoy exploring the medieval town walls, local shops, and cafés, or take a short boat trip to Caldey Island, known for its tranquil beaches and monastery.
Wildlife Watching: Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and porpoises along the stretch of coast, particularly near the Well Hall Good Harbor.

Safety and Navigation Considerations
Tides: Strong tidal flows can affect your cruising speed and maneuverability. Always check tidal charts before departure and plan your route accordingly.
Weather Conditions: The waters can be unpredictable. Always keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to change plans if conditions worsen. Anchorages at Port Eynon or Oxwich Bay provide safe haven in adverse conditions.
Navigational Aids: Be familiar with the buoys, marks, and lights along the route. Important aids include the Gower Peninsula markersand lights at Tenby, which guide you safely into the harbor.
Local Regulations: Adhere to local maritime restrictions, especially regarding fishing zones, speed limits in the vicinity of the beaches, and respect wildlife areas.

Recommended Apps
For enhanced navigation and safety on this beautiful trip, consider using marine navigation apps such as Savvy Navvy. It is specifically useful for planning routes, checking tides, and staying informed about weather conditions. Other useful apps include Navionics and MarineTraffic for additional support.

Conclusion
This cruise from Swansea to Tenby encapsulates the essence of coastal boating in Wales—dynamic landscapes, historical landmarks, and sheltered bays. By navigating carefully and adhering to safety considerations, you’ll transform this trip into an unforgettable maritime experience that combines exploration with the serene beauty of the Pembrokeshire coast.