Channel Crossing 80 miles in a Cornish Crabber 26 - Portsmouth to Alderney + Cruising Guide скачать в хорошем качестве

Channel Crossing 80 miles in a Cornish Crabber 26 - Portsmouth to Alderney + Cruising Guide

Join us for a spectacular 80-mile passage across the English Channel as we sail our *Cornish Crabber 26 gaff-rigged yacht* from *Portsmouth to Alderney* in the Channel Islands. This video is a must-watch for anyone passionate about sailing, coastal cruising, or planning their own Channel crossing. From detailed navigation and shipping-lane tactics to an insider’s guide to Alderney’s welcoming harbour and historic highlights, this film captures the full experience of offshore sailing aboard a traditional gaff cutter. Channel Crossing & Navigation Watch as we slip lines in Portsmouth before first light and set out across one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. The video shows real-time navigation, AIS plotting, and the techniques we use to avoid fast-moving container ships and ferries. Although not a Traffic Separation Scheme, careful navigation is needed, calculating tidal streams, to keep our small yacht moving efficiently under sail. The **Cornish Crabber 26**, with her classic gaff rig and sturdy build, proves why she’s a favourite for both coastal and offshore cruising. Beautiful footage capture her under full canvas,, as she eats up the miles in open water. Arriving in Alderney – Moorings, Customs & Facilities After nearly 17 hours at sea we reach **Braye Harbour**, Alderney’s superb natural anchorage enhanced by an impressive Victorian breakwater. We share practical tips for visiting yachts: *Moorings & Anchorage* – Good shelter in most conditions (except strong northeasterlies), though it can be rolly when the swell sets in. Expect around £25 per night for an 8 m boat in high season, with options to anchor on the south side if moorings are busy. *Customs & Immigration* – Alderney is part of the Common Travel Area, so no passport is required from the UK, but you must complete a simple customs declaration ashore—just fill in the form and pop it in the yellow box. *Harbour Facilities* – Clean showers, toilets, laundry and even free lockers for lifejackets. Friendly harbour staff are on hand to help and diesel is available tax-free from the inner harbour at high tide. Exploring Alderney – History & Highlights Come ashore with us to discover Alderney’s unique charm. Braye village offers pubs, restaurants, shops and a well-stocked chandlery. A short uphill walk leads to **St Anne**, a picturesque town reminiscent of both Cornwall and Brittany. We visit the **Alderney Museum**, where exhibits trace the island’s story from prehistoric settlement and Roman trade to Victorian fortifications and the dark years of German occupation during World War II. Cycling around the island is effortless with e-bikes from *Cycle and Surf**, allowing a leisurely half-day tour. Highlights include **Longis Beach* and the ancient site known as **The Nunnery**, where Roman, British and German fortifications stand side by side, and the striking black-and-white **Quesnard Lighthouse**, guarding Alderney’s rocky northern tip. Whether you’re planning your own *Channel Islands sailing adventure**, researching **Cornish Crabber cruising**, or simply love traditional sailing footage, this video offers inspiration and practical know-how. Hit **Like* if you enjoy classic yacht passages, and *subscribe* for more sailing videos, navigation tips, and gaff-rigged adventures across Britain and beyond.