New to boats - advice would be appreciated

[Chris691]

I have just purchased a zodiac cadet 310 alu along with a 6hp Suzuki 4 stroke.
Our main use for this would be in the North Sea off the coast of staithes north York’s.
Before we put this in the sea I was going to familiarise myself with it in a more user friendly environment ie lake.
Does anyone know or recommend any suitable locations not far from Durham and what are the rules for the particular location.

Appreciated

[chriswjallen]

Hi Chris
Welcome! I know Staithes very well and if you want to practice launching in a sheltered harbour and practice launching from the beck between Staithes and Cowbar then it suits. Runswick Bay is also a beautiful location with free parking near the beach until the end of March.
I am going to take my Bombard Aerotec 3.8 up there this summer.
All the best.
Chris

[Chris691]

Originally Posted by chriswjallen

Hi Chris
Welcome! I know Staithes very well and if you want to practice launching in a sheltered harbour and practice launching from the beck between Staithes and Cowbar then it suits. Runswick Bay is also a beautiful location with free parking near the beach until the end of March.
I am going to take my Bombard Aerotec 3.8 up there this summer.
All the best.
Chris

Fast reply

We have a cottage in staithes and have kayaked there for years the location you mention is the one we use already for the kayaks and will be using this for the boat (the small green and white ferry boats behind the seat are my wife’s).

We have just got the zodiac as we have wanted something with an engine for years but storage is an issue so we have gone for this option.

Before we take to the North Sea I was wanting to get the boat out into a lake to familiarise ourselves with it before hand.

Is there any where you would recommend to do this.

Chris

[chriswjallen]

Hi Chris
There is a reservoir at scaling dam but not sure if motor boats are allowed. Could also consider the River Esk at Ruswarp.
We too have a cottage in Staithes and I feel like the harbour would be a good place to test and learn on a calm day before venturing further out.
Chris