Planning your Next Cruise

Through the winter, there may be far fewer opportunities to take your yacht out on the water. Whether you have brought it ashore for over wintering, or have chosen to leave it in-situ at your marina, the weather and sea conditions put pay to many possible adventures.

These dormant months do offer the opportunity to thoroughly clean, restore, repair and prepare your vessel for the coming year. It’s time to get everything in great working order, order parts and sort out those issues that have been niggling you all year. It is also the perfect time to sit back and start planning your destinations for next year.

The joy of boat ownership is the chance to head off onto the waters, escaping everyday life in favour of blue horizons, distant islands, attractive marinas and new experiences. There are the challenges and rewards of being out at sea and in control of your destiny. Making plans can build the anticipation and give you the drive to complete all those maintenance tasks.

Channel Islands

The Channel Islands are an archipelago of British Crown Dependencies which lie in the Bay of St Malo off the Normandy Coast. Whilst Jersey and Guernsey are well known, there are in fact five other inhabited islands and many more that attract wildlife and day visitors. This makes the area ideal for cruising and thousands of yachts sail into the ports every year.

The islands are relatively easy to reach from the English coast, with Alderney lying just 48 nautical miles from Portland Bill in Dorset and St Peter’s Port being around 82 nautical miles from Torquay and Plymouth. Working the tides can make for an easier journey and you need to take care when crossing the busy traffic separation lines.

As leading off shore financial centres, with favourable conditions for big business and the super wealthy, the Channel Islands are a high class destination. Alongside the beautiful beaches and clear waters you can dine in Michelin starred restaurants, shop in classy boutiques, stay in luxurious properties and relax in one of the spas.

Sail into St Helier Marina in Jersey or St Peter’s Port in Guernsey and you will be faced with a stunning exhibition of highly desirable yachts. There will be a strong French influence, yet the dominant language is English and Sterling is the main currency. As tourism is an important industry for the island economies, you can also be sure that they will provide a warm, friendly welcome.

Each island has its own character, as well as natural delights and historic points of interest. Cruising between the islands can offer a wealth of experiences. On a bright sunny day, Herm with its white sandy beaches can look much like any island in the Indian Ocean. Sark remains car free, giving it a timeless wonder and both Jethou and Brecqhou offer a real escape from the hustle and bustle.

Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands and has many attractions for visitors. Beyond the beaches are historic castles, art galleries, museums and stunning gardens. The island is also home to the Durrell Wildlife Park. If you enjoy outdoor pursuits, there are cycle routes, paths for walkers and a variety of water sports on offer or you can simply relax in one of the many cafes or restaurants.

Guernsey celebrates its scenery and food, so whether you want to enjoy a round of golf on a course with a sea view or sample fresh seafood and other local produce at one of the many annual food festivals, this island will delight.

Dream Destinations

So use the winter months to not only ensure everything is ship shape, but to also dream about time on the water and attractive destinations such as the Channel Islands. The anticipation of such adventures can keep you smiling through the shortest, darkest days.

No matter where in the world you head, Keypart http://www.keypart.com/volvo-penta are on hand to provide replacement parts and spares. From our UK base, we can quickly send top quality branded items such as Mercruiser parts and Volvo Penta spares to a location that is convenient to you. Keep our details at hand, so you can easily get in touch should you need our products.