Dartmouth to Alderney, what do I need?

richardjawilson · 03 February 2011, 11:43

Hi there, I am planning a trip to Alderney sometime in March/April, ie when weather is a bit better.

The rib is 6.1m with a 150 opti on it. I have a small aux as well. Gear wise I have fixed Vhf plus handheld, plotter, charts, gecko's, musto HPX drysuits, life jackets, 160 ltr tank, tool box.

I was also wondering what paper work I need? My insurance is arranged through Towergate and covers 30 days continental use but I have asked them to come back to me if there are any other exceptions.

I would be taking my brother as the only passenger.

Any pointers or info would be greatly appreciated.

Regards Richard

Channel Ribs · 03 February 2011, 12:21

Hi, I look forward to buying you a beer on arrival.

Let me know if there is anything we can do from this end for you, any info at all.

As for gear, it sounds like your close to sorted. The mid channel can be cold even in the middle of summer.

A radar reflector is important, a good one and not one of those plastic tube jobs. Also test your VHF as you will feel quite lonely, knowing you receive well and can transmit clearly will be a reassurance.

Insurance should be fine, but it sounds like you have checked with them to be certain which is sensible.

richardjawilson · 03 February 2011, 12:29

sry forgot to mention I have Tri Lens reflector wounted on a wakeboard height A frame

Erin · 03 February 2011, 12:30

All you really need is calm seas. It's a long way of its choppy.

Paperwork wise there's not really much to worry about, although technically you will want your boat papers with you in case someone asks for them (very unlikely in Alderney but always possible on your return to Dartmouth). Take your passport, just in case you end up in France (either by intention or by bad navigation

). SSR registration not a bad idea as well.

You should fill out a customs form on arrival, but most rarely do.

Tri-lens

(I have one too)

Channel Ribs · 03 February 2011, 12:48

Quote:

Originally Posted by richardjawilson

Tri Lens reflector

Jobsagoodun, as Erin says if you pick your weather it will be a great trip. Don't be put off by a bit of fog

Avocet · 03 February 2011, 15:58

There are, technically, some paperwork and procedures required because Alderney is not in the EU. Part 1 of Form C1331 needs to be completed and delivered to the UK Border Agency before you leave. It can be downloaded from here:

http://customs.hmrc.gov.uk/channelsP...HMCE_CL_000428

The notes at the end of the form explain the reporting procedure with the National Yachtline and what to do with Part 2 of the form upon your return. You'll need a Q (plain yellow) flag to fly on re-entering territorial waters (12 miles off).

I've always complied with the above but the National Yachtline are invariably surprised to be contacted and I'm sure that not many people do (or are even aware of the requirement).

You'll also be asked to complete a form upon checking in at the harbourmaster's office on arrival in Alderney. Your passport isn't required but as said above, it's as well to take it in case you end up in France.

Have a great trip.

richardjawilson · 04 February 2011, 13:42

Avocet, thank your advice. I wonder how many people actully fill out the customs form?

Re my insurance, the 2 main stipulations for me were:

1. Must have another crew member on board, ie not single-handed.

2. Must have an aux engine.

martini · 04 February 2011, 15:25

All these insurance stipulations people get saddled with suprise me.
I'm paying £300 odd pa and I'm covered for Elbe to Brest with no restrictions like that at all.

gotchiguy · 04 February 2011, 15:40

Quote:

Originally Posted by martini

All these insurance stipulations people get saddled with suprise me.
I'm paying £300 odd pa and I'm covered for Elbe to Brest with no restrictions like that at all.

We're paying less than that and we're covered from the canaries to Northern Scandinavia

Erin · 04 February 2011, 16:14

I had to specifically ask my insurers to permit single handed use, which they allowed without any additional premium. I think they like to try and limit risk, even though it makes no real difference to cost. I also extended my cruising range without additional charge. All I need now is to extend the season I'm allowed on my swinging mooring and I'll be happy.

willk · 04 February 2011, 16:33

Sounds like a nice trip.

I appreciate that it's a no-brainer, but I will mention the hot drinks and handy high energy snacks. A 6m rib in midchannel is no place to get hungry or cold. I'm sure you have a First Aid kit. I tend to carry a simple passage plan and a handheld GPS, just in case a power issue takes the instruments out.

When "alone" like that, I carry a few things on my person, secured with lanyards, in case I go for a swim...

1. Handheld VHF
2. PLB
3. Torch

You'll have a ball

Mollers · 04 February 2011, 19:46

Bedajim and I did Dartmouth to Alderney for floptilla '10. It's a nice run.

Paul Cannell · 04 February 2011, 19:58

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mollers

Bedajim and I did Dartmouth to Alderney for floptilla '10. It's a nice run.

Are you making a return trip this year?

Mollers · 04 February 2011, 20:38

Quote:

Originally Posted by Paul Cannell

Are you making a return trip this year?

No, they're coming to our's.

gotchiguy · 05 February 2011, 20:17

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mollers

No, they're coming to our's.

You'll be missing out! We've got all the Belgians/Dutch and a few Frenchies (inc the 7m Vmax with 300XS) tagging along with us. It could be on an altogether different scale to last year

(Although going on past experience the chance of actually getting more than 10 boats will be slim! Especially since the stiffs have decided not to come

)

willk · 05 February 2011, 20:20

Quote:

Originally Posted by gotchiguy

Especially since the stiffs have decided not to come

)

Are you referring to your Personal Lifestyle Sponsors, i.e. the Parental Gotchis? Cheek!

Channel Ribs · 05 February 2011, 20:22

Quote:

Originally Posted by willk

Are you referring to your Personal Lifestyle Sponsors, i.e. the Parental Gotchis? Cheek!

I think he is insulting the hard boat drivers. again!

gotchiguy · 05 February 2011, 20:22

Quote:

Originally Posted by willk

Are you referring to your Personal Lifestyle Sponsors, i.e. the Parental Gotchis? Cheek!

Nope, I am referring to the SB&Rerrs in their silly hard boats

Quote:

Originally Posted by Channel Ribs

I think he is insulting the hard boat drivers. again!

No insult intended

Channel Ribs · 05 February 2011, 20:25

Quote:

Originally Posted by gotchiguy

silly hard boats

Boats are like books, even the bad ones deserve respect. If it has a keel it has a soul.

willk · 05 February 2011, 20:26

Quote:

Originally Posted by Channel Ribs

I think he is insulting the hard boat drivers. again!

Tut tut! Making fun of the less fortunate on a public forum is a bit ripe. When did simple pointing and laughing go out of fashion?