Weather Patterns

Winds-Weather.-The climate of the English Channel is controlled to a large extent by the series of cyclonic disturbances that usually move toward the E or NE, generally passing N of the British Isles. In such cases, the English Channel is under the influence of a mild and moist SW or WSW jet stream.

At other times, different conditions occur mainly when an anticyclone appears and develops over northern Europe. Winds from E may persist for several days and blow in the channel. In winter, weather to the E is bitter cold and it is often accompanied by strong winds, but in summer there is usually fine weather. Winds are very variable. The term “predominant wind” is of little significance in this area.

The main features are the westerlies that occur from December to January and from July to August. During both these periods, more than 50 per cent of the winds are from SSW to NNW, often from SW more than NW. Easterlies are from NE to E and occur most frequently from October to November and from February to June. The frequency is highest in May. Winds from SE are the least frequent. February and November have the most uniform distribution of winds from all directions.

Winds are characterized as predominantly W over the Scilly Isles, unlike over the English Channel. There is a tendency for wind shifts from W to NW more so than from SW to W in summer, and to a lesser degree in January.

At the Bill of Portland, the sea breeze effect results in a strong tendency for winds from N to NE to veer toward E, and those from W to NW to back toward SW between 0700 and 1300. The fluctuation of land and sea breeze at The Bill of Portland is sometimes NE to WSW, the general direction is parallel with the coast. The tendency is very pronounced during the warmer months and it is particularly marked for the N and S directions.

This is a land and sea breeze effect reinforced by the configuration of the river mouth. The effect is substantially repeated in similar topographical situations, in particular at Plymouth.

Use the "Navigation Chart" link to access Area Charts PLUS the NP series Tidal Stream Atlases

This area is described from W to E, starting with approaches to the Scilly Isles, and ending at Poole Bay.

The Scilly Isles

The Scilly Isles (49°55'N., 6°20'W.) comprise a group of isles and numerous above and below-water dangers that occupy a bank, about 5 miles wide, lying between 21 and 31 miles WSW of Land’s End, the SW extremity of England.   The largest isles are concentrated in the NE part of the bank and the small isles, rocks, and hidden dangers intersperse, rather sporadically, the SW part of the bank.   Bishop Rock (49°45'N., 6°35'W.), the SW extremity of the Scilly Isles, is the N of a small detached group of above-water rocks which are mostly awash at HW.   Bishop Rock Light, equipped with a racon, is shown from a conspicuous granite tower, 49m high, standing on the rock. The light tower is radar prominent and generally the first sighting made when approaching the English Channel from the W. The light is obscured on some bearings.

Pol Bank (49°50'N., 6°28'W.), with a least depth of 23m, constitutes the S danger in the Scilly Isles area. It should be avoided by all vessels, specially in periods of heavy swell, when strong overfalls are formed.   St. Agnes lies close SW of St. Mary’s; an old conspicuous lighthouse stands on its summit.  St. Martin’s, fronted by rocks and islets, lies at the NE side of the group about  miles N of St. Mary’s. A conspicuous beacon, 56m high, is situated on the E and highest end of this isle.

Round Island (49°59'N., 6°19'W.), the N isle of the group, is low and surrounded by rocks. Round Island Light is shown from a prominent tower, 19m high, standing on its N side. The light is obscured on some bearings.  St. Mary’s (49°55'N., 6°19'W.), with its summit in the N part, is the largest and principal isle of the group.

Hugh Town (49°55'N., 6°19'W.) , the main harbour and settlement, is situated on the neck of a peninsula at the SW end of this isle. St. Mary’s Road, the most spacious anchorage, lies NW of St. Mary’s.

Seven Stones (50°02'N., 6°07'W.), a large group of steep-to rocks, many of which dry, lies on a bank about 6.5 miles NE of the NE extremity of the Scilly Isles. In rough weather, the sea breaking on these rocks can be seen for a considerable distance, but vessels should never attempt to pass close to their position.  Seven Stones lightfloat (50°04'N., 6°04'W.), equipped with a racon, is moored about 2 miles NE of the N part of the shoal.  When navigating between the Scilly Isles and Land’s End, vessels should not pass between Seven Stones and this lightfloat.

Wolf Rock (49°57'N., 5°49'W.), a steep-to drying rock, is located about 8 miles SSW of Land’s End and is awash at HWN. Wolf Rock Light, equipped with a racon, is shown from a prominent granite tower, 41m high, standing on the rock.

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Land’s End to Lizard Point

Land’s End (50°04'N., 5°43'W.), the SW extremity of England, consists of a bold precipitous headland, 73m high, fronted by foul ground. It is radar conspicuous.  A church, with a prominent steeple, is situated 0.8 mile E of the headland and a coast guard station stands 0.5 mile NE.  Longships (50°04'N., 5°45'W.), a foul area with above and below-water rocks, lies about 1 mile W of Land’s End with a narrow channel between. Longships Light is shown from a prominent granite tower, 35m high, standing on the tallest Carn Base, a rocky shoal with a depth of 9.9m, lies about 2 miles S of Longships, near the W edge of a bank. A heavy confused sea occurs on this bank during W gales, especially during W tidal currents.

Cape Cornwall, surmounted by a conspicuous disused mine chimney, is located 3.5 miles N of Land’s End. A prominent television mast stands  miles NE of this cape. 

Gwennap Head (50°02'N., 5°41'W.), the SW extremity of the Cornwall Peninsula, is a cliffy headland rising in places to heights over 60m. A coast guard station, from which storm signals are displayed, stands on this headland.  Runnel Stone, a shoal awash, lies about 0.8 mile S of Gwennap Head and is marked by a lighted buoy. Two beacons standing in line on the headland mark the position of this danger. The channel leading between the shoal and the headland is foul and should not be attempted without local knowledge.  The coast trending ENE from Gwennap Head remains cliffy and craggy with numerous small points and coves.

Tater-du Light (50°03'N., 5°35'W.) is shown from a prominent tower, 15m high, standing on the coast, 3.8 miles ENE of Gwennap Head. A church, with a conspicuous tower, is situated at St. Buryan, about 2 miles NW of the light.  Carn du, the E entrance point of Lamorna Cove, lies about 1 mile NE of Tater-du Light. Gull Rock, 24m high and precipitous, lies close off this point.  Caution.-Several submarine cables, which may best be seen on the chart, extend seaward from the vicinity of Porthcurno, about 1 mile ENE of Gwennap Head and from a bay located about 1 mile NNE of Land’s End.

Mounts Bay (50°04'N., 5°26'W.) indents the coast between Runnel Stone and Lizard Point, 18 miles ESE. This bay should be avoided in the winter, or during SW gales. No attempt should be made to enter any of the harbours within the bay, except Newlyn, when a ground swell is running or with onshore winds.

Penzance Bay (50°06'N., 5°30'W.) is located in the NW corner of Mounts Bay and entered between Carn du and Cudden Point, 5.5 miles NE. The best anchorages lie within this bay, but they should not be used with winds between SSW and SE.  St. Michael’s Mount (50°07'N., 5°29'W.), a small conical island, is the best landmark in Penzance Bay. It is 80m high and surmounted by a castellated building with a conspicuous tower. This island bears a striking resemblance to the mount of similar name in Normandy, although much smaller, and is likewise connected to the shore by a drying ledge and causeway. St. Clements Isle (50°05'N., 5°32'W.), about 8m high withan obelisk on its S end, lies 0.2 mile off the W shore of Penzance Bay, about 0.5 miles NNE of Carn du. This island provides shelter for the drying boat harbour of Mousehole which is located on the mainland, WNW of it. Penzer Point, surmounted by a prominent building, and a conspicuous hotel are situated 0.8 mile and 0.3 mile, respectively, S of Mousehole. The cliffs near Penzer Point are 25m high and the land rises abruptly behind them.

Penlee Point is located 0.5 mile N of St. Clement’s Isle and the cliffs here are 18m high. Low Lee and Carn Base, respectively, lie about 0.5 mile ENE and NNE of this point. Both are weed-covered rocks. Low Lee is marked by a lighted buoy.  A church, with a prominent tower, stands at Paul, 0.5 mile W of Penlee Point.

Full small craft approach and entry directions are provided in the following coverage:

Newlyn Harbour

 

Penzance Harbour

Cudden Point (50°06'N., 5°26'W.) is located on the NE side of Mounts Bay,  miles ESE of St. Michael’s Mount. Iron Gates (50°04'N., 5°26'W.), a rocky shoal patch with a depth of 7.2m, lies on a bank which extends up to about 2 miles S of Cudden Point. Mountamopus, Carn Mallows, and Great Row, all shoal patches with depths of less than 5m, lie within about  miles N and E of Iron Gates. A channel, about 0.7 mile wide, leads between these dangers and Iron Gates. It is marked by a lighted buoy, but local knowledge is advised.

A conspicuous water tower stands at Saint Hilary. A church, with a prominent tower, is situated at Perranuthnoe, 1.2 miles NW of Cudden Point.

Porthleven (50°05'N., 5°19'W.), used only by fishing boats, is situated in the NE part of Mounts Bay. This small and shallow harbour is entered between the head of a pier and Deazle Rocks, about 90m W. The entrance is open to the SW and, when necessary, heavy timbers are placed across the inner harbour for protection.

The coast trends 1 mile SE from Porthleven to Loe Bar, a bar of shingle, and is low and sandy. From Loe Bar to Lizard Point, 8 miles SSE, the coast consists of cliffs, 15 to 75m high. Mullion Island (50°01'N., 5°16'W.), 30m high and preciptous on its seaward side, lies about 0.2 mile offshore. It protects the drying boat harbour of Porth Mellin which is situated 0.3 mile NE. Landing on the island is prohibited.  Anchorage in E winds only can be obtained, in depths of 14 to 16m, about 0.8 mile NNW of Mullion Island.  The general trend of the coast from Porth Mellin is SSW for 0.8 mile to Predannack Head, a rocky and cliffy headland that  Vradden, a drying rock, lies about 0.2 mile SW of Predannack Head and is steep-to on its seaward side.  A conspicuous hotel stands on the cliffs above a cove 1 mile N of Predannack Head and about 0.4 mile NE of Mullion Island.

The Boa (49°58'N., 5°17'W.), a rocky patch with a least depth of 11m, lies  miles offshore about 2 miles SSW of Predannack Head. It is known to break heavily in SW gales. The bottom is irregular in the vicinity of this shoal and strong tide rips usually occur.

Lizard Point to Falmouth

Lizard Point (49°57'N., 5°12'W.), the S extremity of the mainland of England, is a bold and precipitous promontory at which vessels generally make their landfall when proceeding into the channel from the SW. It is radar conspicuous.  A building with two prominent white octagonal towers, 19m high, stands about 0.5 mile E of the point. Lizard Point Light is shown from the easternmost tower. It is obscured from N until WNW of the point.

A conspicuous large hotel is situated at the head of a small bay, 0.4 mile NE of the light. Several dish-shaped antennas stand on Goonhilly Downs, 5 miles N of the light and are conspicuous from seaward.  A cluster of rocks, collectively known as The Stags, extends up to 0.5 mile S of Lizard Point, terminating in Men Hyr, a rock which dries 4m.  A tide race extends up to 2 miles S of these rocks and during SW gales, the sea in this area is short and heavy.  Spernan Shoals, several rocky patches with depths of 6.9 to 9.6m, lie up to 0.8 mile E of Bass Point, about 0.5 mile ENE of Lizard Point.

Vrogue Rock, with a depth of less than m, lies about 0.4 mile ESE of Bass Point, with depths of less than 10m close around. Craggen Rocks, with a least depth of 1.5m, lie nearly 0.5 mile offshore about 1 mile NNE of Bass Point.   Caution.-A submarine pipeline extends 0.3 mile E from a point on the shore located 0.5 mile N of Bass Point and its seaward end is marked by a buoy.  Several submarine cables, which may best be seen on the chart, extend seaward from the vicinity of Kennack Cove,about 3 miles NE of Lizard Point.

Black Head (50°00'N., 5°06'W.), a cliffy and steep headland, rises to a height of 70m about 4.8 miles NE of Lizard Point. A hotel, situated on the heights above the shore, stands 0.8 mile NNE of Black Head and is conspicuous from the E.  Coverack Cove (50°01'N., 5°06'W.) is entered between Chynhalls Point and Lowland Point,  miles NE. The shore is fronted by drying rocks and ledges. The village of Coverack stands on Dolor Point, 0.4 mile N of Chynhalls Point. A pier extends NW from this point and is used by small craft which can take the ground at LW.  Anchorage is available to small vessels, in a depth of 9m, about 0.2 mile ENE of Dolor Point.

Manacle Rocks (50°03'N., 5°02'W.), also known as The Manacles, lie up to 0.8 mile offshore E of Manacle Point, about 3.3 miles NNE of Black Head. Steep-to on their seaward edge, these drying and submerged rocks can be particularly dangerous in thick weather when rounding the coast for Falmouth. A lighted buoy is moored about 0.3 mile E of the outer rock.

Read Coverage of

Helford River (to Gweek Quay)

Falmouth Bay (50°08'N., 5°04'W.) lies between the N entrance point of the Helford River and Pendennis Point, miles NE. The coast consists of cliffs up to 15m high in the S part and is fronted by drying ledges in the N part.  Saint Anthony Head (50°08'N., 5°01'W.) forms the SW extremity of a headland. Saint Anthony Head Light is shown from a conspicuous white octagonal tower, 19m high, standing on the head.

Read coverage of Falmouth to Truro in 4 parts:

Falmouth 1, approach, entry, Inner Harbour, Penryn River

Falmouth 2, St. Mawes, Percuil River

Falmouth 3, Carrick roads, as far as Restronguet Creek, including Mylor and its Marina

Falmouth 4, The Upper Reaches as far as Truro

Falmouth to Plymouth

Dodman Point (50°13'N., 4°48'W.), a precipitous bluff, is 111m high. It has a steep E face and is surmounted by a prominent stone cross near the S extremity. The Bellows, with a depth of 6.1m, and The Field, with a depth of 7m, are two rocky patches lying about 0.9 mile S and 0.8 mile SSE, respectively, of the point. The depths extending up to about 1 mile S of the point are very irregular and heavy overfalls are formed in bad weather in this area. It is advisable to stay at least 2 miles S of Dodman Point.

Nare Head, 78m high, is a bold headland located 4.8 miles WSW of Dodman Point. The Bizzies, a group of rocky patches, lies at the seaward extremity of a spit which extends about 1 mile offshore,  miles SW of the headland. Overfalls are formed in the vicinity of these patches.  Gull Rock, 38m high, is located about 0.6 mile E of NareHead. The Whelps lies at the S end of a group of detached drying rocks extending 0.4 mile SSW from Gull Rock. Lath Rock, with a least depth of 2.1m, lies about 1 mile off the shore of Veryan Bay,  miles NE of Gull Rock.  The spire of the church standing in Gerrans,  miles SW of Nare Head, is conspicuous from seaward. A beacon, prominent from SW, is situated on a hill with an elevation of 102m standing about 1 mile N of Nare Head. It consists of a mound, 6m high, surmounted by a hut.

Chapel Point, located about  miles NNE of Dodman Point, is the S entrance point of Mevagissey Bay and is fronted by shoals.  Gwineas Rock, 8m high, lies on a detached shoal bank about 0.8 mile SSE of Chapel Point and is marked close SE by a lighted buoy.

Read coverage of

Mevagissey Harbour, and useful anchorages in St Austells and Mevagissey Bays

Black Head (50°17'N., 4°46'W.), the N entrance point of Mevagissey Bay, also forms the W entrance point of a large bight in the coast, of which Gribbin Head, located about 3 miles ENE, forms the E entrance point. St. Austell Bay, located in the W part of the above bight, affords good temporary anchorage.

Par Sands (50°21'N., 4°42'W.), at the head of Tywardreath Bay in the E part of the bight with St. Austell Bay, is a drying flat, the W part of which contains the small drying harbour of Par.(now closed)

Tywardreath Bay only affords anchorage in N or E winds; vessels should proceed to St. Austell Bay in the W part of the bight for shelter at other times.

Gribbin Head (50°19'N., 4°40'W.), with a conspicuous beacon tower, 26m high, standing on its E side, is bordered by numerous rocks which break heavily in bad weather. Cannis Rock, which dries, lies about 0.3 mile SE of the head and is marked by a lighted buoy.

Read coverage of

Fowey Harbour

Pencarrow Head (50°19'N., 4°36'W.), a cliffy headland which rises close inland to a height of 134m, is  miles E of Fowey Harbour and forms a good landmark from seaward.  Udder Rock, marked by a buoy close S, lies about 0.5 mile offshore,  miles ESE of Pencarrow Head. It should be given a wide berth. Shag Rock, marked with a white diamond, lies close offshore, N of this rock. The alignment of Shag Rock and a beacon, 5m high, standing on the mainland close NNE indicate the approximate position of Udder Rock.

Polperro, a small tidal harbour, lies at the head of a narrow inlet, 3.4 miles E of Pencarrow Head. It is used by fishing vessels and yachts. The entrance is about 10m wide. The harbour dries and has depths of 3.4m at HWS and m at HWN. This picturesque town is a tourist resort and filming site.  A light is shown from pillar, 3m high, standing on Spy House Point, close E of the harbour. A prominent monument is situated on Downend Point, 0.3 mile E of the light.

St. Georges Island (Looe Island) (50°20'N., 4°27'W.), nearly connected to Hannafore Point about 0.5 mile N by low shelving rocks, is surrounded by dangers and shoals. Vessels proceeding to Looe Harbour should round the island at a distance of at least  miles and then pass to the E, with Looe Light bearing not more than 313°. The Ranneys, which dry 4.6m, extends about 0.3 mile SE of St. Georges Island. Sherbeterry Rocks, with a least depth of 5.4m, extend up to about 2 miles S of the shore, 2.8 miles NE of St. Georges Island.  Knight Errant Patch, at the SE end of the shoals, has a depth of 6.2m and lies about 2.7 miles E of The Ranneys; a patch, with a least depth of 5m, lies near the SW end of the shoals.

Looe Harbour (50°21'N., 4°27'W.) lies at the mouth of the River Looe, about 0.5 mile N of Hannafore Point. This small drying harbour is used by fishing vessels and pleasure craft. It has depths of 4m at HWS and 3m at HWN. Vessels up to 16m in length and m draft can enter. A stone bridge spans the river about 0.4 mile above the entrance.  The roadstead off Looe affords good shelter from W winds and is exposed only to the S through E. The best anchorage is in depths of 7 to 13m, sand, between 0.5 and 1 mile SE of the river mouth

Rame Head (50°19'N., 4°13'W.), located at the W side of the entrance to Plymouth Sound, appears from seaward as a conical hill. It rises to a height of 102m close within and an old chapel stands on the summit. This headland is very prominent and clearly defines the position of the sound.  A prominent radio mast, 23m high, is situated 0.4 mile NE of Rame Head. A beacon stands at an elevation of 128m about miles N of the head and is prominent from seaward.  Whitsand Bay lies W of Rame Head and is bordered by cliffs 30 to 75m high. Portwinkle, a small drying harbour, is situated 4.3 miles NW of Rame Head and is used by fishing boats.

Caution.-A submarine exercise area lies in the approaches to Looe harbour and Whitsand Bay.  A spoil ground and disused explosive dumping area lies centered  miles W of Rame Head and may best be seen on  A small arms firing range is situated on the shore of Whitsand Bay, about  mile E of Portwinkle. Red lights and red flags are displayed from flagstaffs in its vicinity when firing is in progress.

Eddystone Rocks (50°11'N., 4°16'W.), lying 8 miles S of Rame Head, do not completely cover. They are fairly steep-to outside a radius of 0.3 mile, but vessels are recommended to give them a wide berth. Eddystone Light is shown from a prominent granite tower, 49m high and surmounted by a helicopter platform, standing on the rocks. This tower is radar conspicuous. A racon is situated at the light.

Hand Deeps, located about 3.5 miles NW of Eddystone Rocks, consists of a group of rocky shoals with a least depth of 7m. In bad weather the position of this shoal area is indicated by a short breaking sea in its vicinity, and in good weather usually by tide rips.

Read coverage of

Plymouth, Plymouth Sound, Anchorages and Central Marinas

Plymouth, the Rivers and Anchorages

Plymouth to Start Point

Yealm Head (50°18'N., 4°04'W.), located 1.2 miles E of Great Mew Stone, is the W extremity of a hilly peninsula. It forms the E entrance point of Wembury Bay and the S side of the mouth to the Yealm River.

Wembury Bay, with irregular depth of less than 15m, is used by small craft as an anchorage. The Yealm River, a yachting center, has a bar which dries. The coast E of Yealm Head is craggy and reef strewn, with numerous dangers lying within the 20m curve. Stoke Point, located 2 miles E of Yealm Head, is the SE extremity of the above peninsula. Conspicuous cliffs stand about 0.5 mile NNE of this point.

Read coverage of the

Yealm, River

Bigbury Bay lies between Stoke Point and Bolt Tail, 6.5 miles ESE. The mouth of the Erme River, located near the head of the bay, can be identified by clumps of trees just within the W entrance point. The river dries and can only be entered by small craft with local knowledge.  Wells Rock, with a depth of 1.2m, lies about 0.5 mile S of the E entrance point of the river.  The River Avon, used only by small craft, enters the bay miles NNW of Bolt Tail. Burgh Island, 47m high, lies close off the N entrance point of the river. It is connected to the shore by a drying sandy neck and a small ruined chapel stands on the summit. A church, with a conspicuous spire, stands at Bigbury,  miles NE of the island.

Thurlestone Rock, 10m high and resembling the hull of a stranded vessel, lies close offshore, 1 mile N of Bolt Tail.  From a distance the coast in this vicinity appears as a line of even topped hills backed by the irregular mountainous outline of Dartmoor Hills, which rise to heights of over 500m, about 10 miles inland.

Bolt Tail (50°14'N., 3°52'W.) rises to a height of 87m about 0.3 mile within its extremity and is prominent from seaward.  Anchorage, according to draft, can be taken by small vessels in Hope Cove, on the N side of the point. It is only safe in offshore winds and local knowledge is required.  East Rutts (50°13'N., 3°59'W.), a steep-to isolated shoal, lies about 4.5 miles WSW of Bolt Tail and has a least depth of 8.9m. Two special lighted buoys (NGS West and NGS East)  are moored about  miles S of the shoal.  Caution.-A spoil ground area. the limits of which may best be seen on the chart, lies 3.4 miles SSW of Stoke Point.

Bolt Head (50°13'N., 3°47'W.), a prominent headland, is located 3.8 miles SE of Bolt Tail. The coast between consists of a prominent succession of dark rugged cliffs rising abruptly to a height of about 120m.  Several prominent radio masts, each 50m high, stand at an elevation of 180m near the coast, about  miles NW of Bolt Head. A fairly conspicuous notch in the cliffs exists about 0.8 mile SE of the masts.  A coast guard station stands on Bolt Head and a conspicuous radio tower is situated about 1mile NNW of it. The headland is fronted by two small islands, known as The Mewstones.

Read Coverage of

Salcombe Harbour (and Kingsbridge Estuary)

From Start Point to the Bill of Portland, 50 miles NE, the coast curves inward in a broad sweep, the N portion of which is Lyme Bay. Between the Bill of Portland and Saint Catherine’s Point, at the S end of the Isle of Wight, the coast is divided into two bays by the Isle of Purbeck.  The Isle of Purbeck is a peninsula, the S extremity of which is formed by Saint Alban’s Head.

Winds-Weather.-From Start Point to the Bill of Portland, the ports of Dartmouth, Torquay, and Brixham offer the only shelter in S and SE gales.  During such storms the sea breaks right across the entrances of the small ports along this part of the coastal stretch.

Tides..Currents..The tidal currents are fairly strong off Start Point, and very strong off Bill of Portland. In the W part of the bay between the two points the current is weak, but becomes much stronger towards Portland Peninsula.  Midway between the two points the current attains a maximum spring rate of  knots. The currents in the bays on either side of the Bill of Portland form strong eddies. There is a N set into either bay, and a S set, S of Bill of Portland. The current maybe felt 8 to 10 miles W and E, and 5 to 6 miles S of the peninsula.  Vessels are advised to keep well S of the Bill of Portland to avoid the currents.

Start Point to Portland

Start Point (50°13'N., 3°38'W.), the W entrance point of Start Bay, may be identified by its rugged and serrated appearance. It is radar conspicuous. Start Point Light is shown from a prominent round tower, 28m high, standing near the extremity of the point. Within 1 mile of the point the land rises rapidly to a height of about 120m. Two conspicuous radio masts stand on the heights, about 1 mile WNW of the point.  Tide rips occur up to 1 mile S and E of the point.  Skerries Bank (50°15'N., 3°36'W.), with a least depth of 2.1m, extends between 0.7 mile and 4 miles NE of Start Point. Its NE and outer extremity is marked by a buoy. During heavy weather the sea breaks on all parts of this bank, especially on the SW end. A narrow passage leads between the S end of the bank and Start Point. It should not be used during periods of heavy weather.

Start Bay lies between Start Point and Combe Point, 7 miles NNE. The shore consists of an almost continuous beach. A church, with a conspicuous tower, stands at Stoke Fleming, about 1 mile WSW of Combe Point.  The bay, within Skerries Bank, provides good anchorage, in depths of 12 to 14m, sand and gravel. Anchorage is not recommended in the bay during SE gales or within 0.5 mile N of Start Point. In strong E winds there is no shelter between the bank and the land, and broken water extends to the shoreline.

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Dartmouth Harbour and River Dart

Berry Head (50°14'N., 3°29'W.) is the NE extremity of the broad rocky peninsula formed between the River Dart and Tor Bay. It consists of a steep-to limestone cliff, which rises from the sea nearly perpendicular to a height of 55m. Berry Head Light is shown from a structure, 5m high, standing on the flat top of this headland. A coast guard station is situated close to the light structure.  Seen from the SE, the head forms an excellent landmark because of the whitish appearance of the cliffs in relation to the surrounding land. Berry Head is reported to be very radar conspicuous.

Numerous steep-to dangers lie up to 0.5 mile offshore along the coast between the River Dart and Berry Head. Vessels approaching Tor Bay from the S should give the shore a wide berth.

Tor Bay (50°26'N., 3°28'W.), entered between Berry Head and Hope’s Nose, about 4 miles N, affords good shelter in W winds, but E or SE gales send in a heavy dangerous sea. 

Hope’s Nose (50°27'N., 3°29'W.), the N entrance point of Tor Bay, is a sloping headland rising to a knoll, 105m high, about 0.5 mile inland.  Ore Stone, a conspicuous peaked rock lies about 0.5 mile SE of the point. It is 32m high and forms a good mark especially from the S. Thatcher Rock, 41m high, lies about 0.8 mile W of Ore Stone. It is conspicuous and more rounded than Ore Stone. On some bearings these two rocks could be mistaken for one another.  A conspicuous white block of flats stands on the N side of the bay, 0.7 mile WSW of Hope’s Nose. A prominent hotel is situated about 0.5 mile W of this block.  Two prominent radio masts stand at the W side of the bay, about 5 miles WSW of Hope’s Nose.  Torbay Harbour is the local name used to include Tor Bay and the harbours of Brixham, Paignton, and Torquay.

Read coverage of:

Brixham Harbour

 

Paignton Harbour

 

Torquay Harbour (and Marina)

 

Teignmouth Harbour (50°33'N., 3°30'W.)  is situated at the mouth of the River Teign, 4.5 miles N of Hope’s Nose. It can be identified by The Ness, a bold headland of red sandstone, located on the S side of the entrance. The town, situated on the N side of the entrance, is a tourist resort. It is situated mainly on a small peninsula, which is fronted by a sandy spit at its S end. St. Michaels Church, with a tower and flagstaff, stands in the NE part of the town and is conspicuous from the approaches.

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Teignmouth Harbour

Exmouth Harbour (50°37'N., 3°25'W.) lies in a coastal bight between Langstone Point and Straight Point, about 3 miles NE. The town fronts the shore on the E side of the entrance to the River Exe. It is approached through a narrow channel, which is fronted by a bar with a least depth of 0.3m. Numerous drying shoals and sand banks obstruct the entrance. The channel, which is subject to frequent change, is buoyed .

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Exmouth and River Exe (including Topsham and Exeter Canal)

Lyme Bay (50°36'N., 3°18'W.) lies between Straight Point and Bill of Portland, 35 miles E. The coastline of the bay curves inward in a broad sweep.  Straight Point (50°36'N., 3°21'W.), the W entrance point, is formed of earth cliffs and is radar prominent. A light is shown from a mast, 7m high, standing on the point. It is reported that this light structure is difficult to identify.

The coast then trends 2 miles NE to Otterton Point. The River Otter empties into the sea close W of this point through a mouth obstructed by a shingle bar. Budleigh Salterton, a resort, is situated close W of the river mouth in a narrow valley. Sidmouth, another resort, is situated 4 miles NE of Otterton Point in a valley between two hills. It is fronted by two offshore rock breakwaters.

Beer Head (50°41'N., 3°06'W.), a conspicuous and precipitous chalk cliff, is located about 9 miles ENE of Otterton Point. This headland is 130m high and forms the W end of the white chalk-colored cliffs that extend around the S and E coasts of England. The cliffs extending to the W of the point consist of red sandstone.  A conspicuous radio mast stands at an elevation of 445m on Stockland Hill, 7 miles N of Beer Head.  Beer Roads, a small anchorage, fronts the village of Beer, 0.7 mile NNE of Beer Head. A recommended berth, sheltered from N winds, lies about 0.4 mile SE of the village, in a depth of 8m, sand. A prominent water tower stands 1.2 miles NNE of the village.

Caution.-A firing range area, marked by two lighted buoys, extends up to  miles E of Straight Point and may best be seen on the chart. Red flags are displayed when the rifle range is in use.  Crab pots are often laid from 2 to 4 miles offshore close E of Beer Head.

Lyme Regis Harbour (50°43'N., 2°56'W.) lies 6.5 miles ENE of Beer Head and is used by fishing boats and pleasure craft. The harbour is protected from SW by The Cobb, a sizable stone pier. The harbour basin has depths of 2.7 to 4.3m at HWS, but dries at LWS. A lighted range indicates the approach to the harbour. During strong S winds, the sea breaks heavily around the piers.

The coast trends E from Lyme Regis and remains cliffy except near the mouth of the River Char,  miles ENE of the harbour. Golden Cap, where the cliffs rise to a height of 187m, is located 3.5 miles E of Lyme Regis. This cape is fringed by several shoals which extend up to 0.5 mile seaward. High Ground and Pollock, two shoal areas with depths of 3 to 4m, lie up to 1 mile offshore,  1.8 and 2.6 miles SE of Golden Cape. These dangers should be given a wide berth.

Bridport Harbour (50°43'N., 2°46'W.) lies 3 miles ESE of Golden Cap and is known locally as West Bay. The town is situated  miles N of the harbour. This harbour is used by small commercial vessels, fishing boats, and pleasure craft. It has a canal-type entrance, about 200m long and 12m wide, formed by two piers. A basin, 160m long and 42m wide, lies at the N end of the entrance channel and mostly dries. The entrance is fronted by a bar which dries.  During S gales, the sea breaks heavily at the entrance and renders the harbour unusable. An outfall pipeline extends about 0.8 mile SSW from close E seaward end.

From Bridport to the N end of the Portland Peninsula, 15 miles SE, the coast is almost straight. The SE part of this stretch is formed by Chesil Beach. This beach consists of a steep-to narrow isthmus of shingle, about 200m wide and 13m high. Lagoons lie between the inner side of this isthmus and the land. After continuous strong SW winds, the sea often breaks over the SE portion of the beach and floods the land.

Caution.-An outfall pipeline extends about 0.7 mile S from the mouth of the River Char. It is marked by a lighted buoy at the seaward end. An outfall pipeline extends about 0.8 mile SSW from close E of Bridport Harbour entrance. It is marked by a lighted buoy at the seaward end. about 5 miles offshore, E of Tor Bay, S of Beer Head, S of Bridport, and off Chesil Beach.  A submarine exercise area is centered 5 miles SW of the Portland Peninsula. Vessels should keep a good lookout when passing through these waters

Bill of Portland (50°31'N., 2°27'W.), the S extremity of Portland Peninsula (Isle of Portland), is a low extended point. Portland Bill Light is shown from a conspicuous tower, 41m high, standing on the SE side of the Bill. A stone beacon stands at an elevation of 18m on the S extremity of the shore and is meant to warn small vessels of a rock shelf with several loose boulders which fronts the point. The prominent structure of a former light (Old Low Light) is situated 0.4 mile NNE of Portland Bill Light. A conspicuous coast guard station stands on The Grove at the E side of the peninsula,  miles NE of Portland Bill Light. The Verne, a hill, is situated close to the N end of the peninsula. It is 149m high and precipitous on its N side. A conspicuous radar dome (red light) is situated on this hill. A prominent radio mast stands at an elevation of 158m about 0.3 mile SSE of the hill.

The land between this hill and the Bill, about 3 miles S, forms a conspicuous wedge-shaped landmark and is one of the best aids to navigation for vessels proceeding up and down the English Channel. The Bill of Portland is radar conspicuous.

Vessels proceeding to Portland or Weymouth may pass between the Bill and The Shambles or E of The Shambles. Low power yachts are advised to pass East of the Shambles.  Caution.-A tidal race, caused by the very strong S currents from both sides of Portland Peninsula meeting the E and W currents off the Bill, is formed from 1 to 2 miles S of the point with the strongest part of the race in the direction of the main current.

Though the currents run very fast in the immediate vicinity of the race, they are not especially strong within the race itself, but are subject to great and sudden changes in both direction and rate. In heavy weather, especially when the wind is blowing against the current, strong overfalls and breaking seas are formed and are dangerous to boats and small vessels.  At certain times, currents greater than those indicated on the charts, possibly up to 10 knots, may be found in or near the race and care is advised.

The Shambles (50°30'N., 2°22'W.), a bank of broken shells with depths of 5 to 8m, lies centered about 3 miles ESE of the Bill of Portland. It may best be seen on the chart and is reported to be extending farther to the E. Except at slack water, the position of this bank is clearly shown by ripples or overfalls on the N or S side according to the direction of the tidal flow. Lighted buoys are moored off the E and W ends of this bank. However, these navigational aids should not be wholly relied upon, especially after stormy weather when the sea breaks heavily over the bank.  Caution.-Although the channel lying between The Shambles and the Bill of Portland can be used at any time, it is only recommended in good weather and with local knowledge.  All vessels not familiar with the area should pass E of The Shambles and W of Adamant Shoal when proceeding to Portland. Due regard should be allowed for the tidal current when transiting this area.

See small craft notes in "More Info."

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Portland Harbour  

Weymouth Harbour (and Marina)

Redcliff Point (50°38'N., 2°24'W.), on the N shore of Weymouth Bay, is the W extremity of a line of cliffs which extends E for about 3 miles to White Nothe. A conspicuous hotel, with a white tower, stands near the shore of the bay, 0.4 mile WNW of the point. Two beacons, in line bearing 048°, stand on the high ground about 0.6 mile E of the White Nothe.  Adamant Shoal, with depths of 15.3 to 18m, lies about 4.8 miles S of White Nothe. The coast E of White Nothe is strewn with rocks and ledges. It provides no shelter from S winds except at Lulworth Cove, 3 miles E. This small circular basin is encompassed by chalk cliffs and provides anchorage to small craft. The entrance is reported to be difficult to identify.

Worbarrow Bay (50°37'N., 2°12'W.), an open bight, lies  miles E of Lulworth Cove. It is entered between a group of rocks on the W side and Worbarrow Tout, a point surmounted by a conical hill, on the E side. The bay has high cliffy shores divided in the center by Arish Mell Gap. This gap is fronted by a conspicuous white sandy beach.  The bay affords anchorage in its E part during all but S winds. The anchorage has a depth of 11m, fine sand. 5 A conspicuous tower stands near the shore,  miles ESE of the E entrance point of the bay.  Caution.-An outfall pipeline, marked at its seaward end by a lighted buoy, extends about 2 miles SSE from Arish Mell Gap.

Saint Albans Head (St. Aldhelms Head) (50°35'N., 2°03'W.) is a bold headland, 107m high, bordered by cliffs on all sides. It is radar conspicuous. A chapel and a coast guard station stand on this headland. 6 Saint Albans Ledge, with depths of 8.5 to 16m, extends up to 6 miles. Because of the uneven bottom, strong eddies form off this ledge and the overfalls within may be dangerous to small craft. The current runs continuously SE along the W side of the headland and, during the flood tide, a race forms to the SW.

Anvil Point (50°36'N., 1°57'W.), located 3.5 miles ENE of Saint Albans Head, is low and cliffy with higher land close within. Anvil Point Light is shown from a conspicuous tower with a dwelling, 12m high, standing on the point. A conspicuous castellated building is situated on Durlston Head, 0.3 mile NE of the light. Anvil Point is reported to be radar prominent.

Swange Bay, lying  miles N of Anvil Point, is entered between Peveril Point and Ballard Point,  miles NNE. Peveril Ledge, with depths of less than 5m, extends up to about 0.5 mile E of Peveril Point and is marked by a buoy.

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Swanage, (Anchorage)

Handfast Point, which is conspicuous, is located 0.8 mile NNE of Ballard Point. The shore between is fronted by steep chalk cliffs. Old Harry, a prominent column of chalk 18m high with a flat grassy top, stands close off this point.  Anchorage, with good shelter from W winds, may be taken about 0.7 mile N of Peveril Point. There are depths of about 8m over good holding ground of mostly sand and clay. 6 Caution.-A firing range area extends up to 12 miles seaward between Saint Albans Head and Lulworth Cove. Lighted buoys associated with this range are moored in the vicinity of Saint Albans Ledge. When the range is in use, red flags and red lights are displayed from a hill close NNE of the cove and from above the coast guard station on the headland.  During summer, crab pots may be moored within 0.5 mile of the shore in the vicinity of Saint Albans Head.

A measured mile (1,849m), marked by two sets of range beacons, is situated close W of Anvil Point and may best be seen on the chart.

A spoil ground area lies centered 4 miles NE of Anvil Point and may best be seen on the chart.

Read coverage of

Poole Harbour, Approach and Entrance, Anchorages at Studland Bay and South Deep

Poole, Northern Harbour, Marinas, and River Frome to Wareham

 

The coast between the entrance to Poole Harbour and Hurst Point, 15 miles E is indented by Poole Bay and Christchurch Bay. The shores of the bays consist of a succession of earthy cliffs intersected by deep ravines. These ravines, known as chines, are worn by the action of small streams. Frequent landslides occur along this stretch of shore. The shore of Poole Bay is almost entirely occupied by the resort of Bournemouth with its many buildings. A prominent coast guard station is situated on a hill near the shore, about 0.5 mile W of Hengistbury Head, the E extremity of Poole Bay. A conspicuous water tower stands, at an elevation of 52m, about 1.7 miles WNW of the coast guard station. Christchurch Priory, with a conspicuous tower, stands miles 1.3 NW of Hengistbury Head.

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Christchurch Harbour

Coverage eastwards continued with the Solent Area

Solent

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Warning, much of the text on this page has been adapted from material intended mainly for big ship mariners (NGA Sailing Directions). It's suitability for small craft must be left in the hands of the individual skipper. As with everything else on this site, the information is not to be used for navigation purposes, but may be useful in the passage planning stages.

The coverage of individual harbours, including approach and entry, is specifically written for yachts and motorboats.

Notes on the Portland Race for Small Craft

The notorious Portland Race is probably the most dangerous area in the Channel, and the whole area is best given a wide berth. Strong tides meeting an uneven bottom cause the seas to well up and break, and the effects of this conflagration can be felt up to 5 miles off Portland Bill. Small vessels need to be acutely aware that they can get drawn into this against their will if they approach too closely. The recommended offing is a minimum of 3 miles in calm conditions and around 10 miles if conditions are bad. Furthermore it is not advisable to try and cut between the race and the Shambles Bank, as the risk exists of either being drawn into the race, or set on to the bank. High-powered craft may get away with this. There is an inshore passage very close in to the Bill, but this is fraught with danger. Firstly timing must be spot on, secondly there are numerous pot markers which may be forced underwater by the strength of the tide just waiting to foul your propeller. It is not proposed to describe this passage here.

Treat this whole area with the respect it deserves and remember the saying :

"There are old Mariners and there are bold Mariners.... but there are no old bold mariners"

Further information below:

http://www.theheritagecoast.co.uk/historyfile/portland_and_weymouth/wrecks/dorsets_coastline.htm

http://www.mcga.gov.uk/c4mca/mcga07-home/newsandpublications/press-releases.htm?id=80540932534E7CBA&m=8&y=2008

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/dorset/7575474.stm

Visit My Harbour hasn't covered ALL the harbours around this stretch of coast: Click on any of the links below to see harbour coverage by www.ports.org.uk .  These are generally smaller harbours, and the links below don't give pilotage directions, but give a good general description, photos,  and normally contact details for the Harbourmasters.

 

Scilly Isles

 

New Grimsby

Bryher

Old Grimsby

Carn Near

St Martin's

Hughtown (St Mary's)

St Agnes

 

W. Channel, Lands End to the Needles

 

Coverack

Looe

Polkerris

Polperro

Polruan

Porthoustock

Portloe

Portscatho

Portwrinkle

Sennen Cove

Lamorna

Sennen Cove

Marazion

Mousehole

St Michael's Mount

Porthleven

Mullion Cove

Cadgwith 

Cockwood

Hope Cove

Axmouth

Lyme Regis

Bridport (West Bay)