         |
North Sea Trip
This challenging event sees typically 5-6 vessels take on the English Channel, and make a crossing from the Dutch coast to the English. the Dutch side is typically Roompot or Texel.
The destination, Woolverstone in the UK, lies on the “River Orwell,” approx.10 miles upstream from Harwich. The tour is not competitive, but an achievement challenge for the crew and the yachts together. The approximate sailed distance from Roompot to Woolverstone is approx.100 miles (e.g. from Roompot to Woolverstone). This distance is based on the most direct route, while wind conditions and wind-mill parks force us to tacking will considerably extend the trip. The challenge of the rally is the crossing of about 100 nautical miles at sea, where the coast line is out of sight and a considerable part must be sailed at night. Under normal circumstances (5 knots) the direct crossing takes about a day, but with light breeze this can add up. Use of the motor, however is allowed, to keep an average 5 knots speed. Count on 1.5 days at sea, because there is always a risk of a non-sailable course. In addition, it may at night are pretty cold at sea. If possible, try to sail at sea with your new crew prior to the channel crossing at sea to know your capabilities and ambitions.Please check whether you need a VISA for this event, based on your nationalty. |
When/How Long?
Departure Friday – Return Monday (4-day trip)
Friday meeting point at Dutch coast at agreed upon location (e.g. Roompot Marina). Departure around lunchtime. This is determined not by the tide, but by the preferred arrival at daytime in Woolverstone. Crossing of the shipping lanes during the evening. At next day dawn arrival at Felixstowe/Harwich and sailing up the Orwell. Arrival in Woolverstone approximately 9 AM.
Shower, some sleep and afternoon 30 min stroll along the river in the forest to Pin-mill for the traditional Fish & Chips & Beers at the Butt and Oysters.
We set sail on Sunday morning at dawn, sailing down the poetic Orwell and start crossing the Channel. Approximate arrival in Roompot Marina is expected around midnight. A shore we catch some sleep and sail to our home harbors during Monday. A final local meal after cleaning-up and we drive to our respective homes.
A preparation BBQ with all participants will be planned in due course.
Who?
Each skipper is responsible to decide if it’s safe to sail -in general we do not leave at wind forces above 5 Beaufort-. The skipper may also decide to go to a refuge harbor or to return. Everyone sails entirely at their own risk and responsibility. The captain is responsible for his own ship! Provide assistance at sea to other participants is often difficult or impossible. There is no question of a “guided” tour. Radio contact is useful for moral & technical support or when crew suffers from seasickness. It is also used to report where the rest of the armada is located or when the journey is discontinued.
Where?
Our goal Woolverstone lies on the “River Orwell,” approx.10 miles upstream from Harwich. We leave from Roompot.
How Much?
Cost involve victuals, berth, fuel, food onshore and bunk fee, approx. 150 euro for the weekend.
Registration
Please submit your Registration here. You will be contacted in due course for detailed information.