Often overlooked by those heading West, the Exe estuary at high tide stretches 6 miles long and about a mile wide. Unlike other Devon harbours it is low and flat and very much like the estuaries of the East coast of England. It is a magnet for birdwatchers and conservationists with the whole area being designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

For the visiting yachtsman or motorboater it offers a few deepwater anchorages, some useful boatyards, and a small Marina which unfortunately is often full. For those prepared to push on up the estuary a tranquil and secure berth can be found just within the Exeter Canal. Reaching Exeter itself is impossible for sailing boats as the way is blocked by a road bridge with 10 m clearance. There are special areas set aside for waterskiing and PWC's, with adequate launching facilities. ... read more

Difficult to give advice because the whole situation is in a state of flux. It is inadvisable to approach the area with onshore winds from the East, right through to the South West. Heavy swell from this direction will also cause problems. Confused and breaking seas, plague the approach, and as you run in parallel to the beach you will be worryingly close to the lee Shore, which has several rocky outcrops to add to the fun.

The new channel that appears to be developing straight through the middle of Pole Sand looks to be a far safer option......

In settled offshore conditions the ideal time to approach is around 2 to 3 hours before high water, in daylight. Although the channel is lit, a nighttime approach is not recommended.

NOVEMBER 2008   The old channel is now closed and buoyage removed.

The New Channel is now the only Channel Marked, numbered buoys lead in from the safe water mark described below.(see plan and latest chart provided). Pilotage directions follow: ... read more

There are various mooring options around Exmouth, Starcross, Topsham and the Exeter Canal. These are now covered starting with:

Exmouth Marina, is formed in the old dock basin and shown on the inset superimposed on the chart. It is now full of pontoons and surrounded by a fancy housing development. Although once dredged to 2 m it is silting up, the bottom being soft mud. The Marina is fully subscribed, but they will try hard to find you a berth should residents be away. They are on VHF channel 14 callsign " Exmouth Dock" or telephone 01395 269314. The maximum size accommodated is 11 m. Contact them to check availability before making an entry. On approach to the dock entrance beware of strong cross tides and counter eddies as these can reach velocities of to 5 or 6 kn. Be warned. ... read more