Isle of man TT approach from North

[beamishken]

Hi we're planning on heading from Largs down to Douglas IOM .
We've been before but last time we headed straight for peel then round the south of the island and up to Douglas
This time we want to approach from North but are aware of the tide race over the balacash bank to the north east of the island
What's the best route and tide state to approach?
Anyone else heading down later this week

[Brian]

I have been up and down from Largs to IOM many times .
In your boat I wouldn't worry the tiniest anyway. 10m and 2x315s?
Your kidding aren't you?
If you drive close to IOM, inside the Whitestone bouy you will be clear of any turbulance you MIGHT encounter further offshore.
Or, if you are not confident with that, if you run outside the Whitestone and head for the outside of the Bahama you will be totally safe.

[beamishken]

Hi cheers Brian thanks for the info I remembered there was something about being either close in or further offshore to avoid overfalls but I wasn't sure on the distances either way
Is there any particular tide state that's favourable?

I'm not worried but my wife decided to join me and the two teenagers which means the youngest child will be coming who is only 13 months
We were originally going to take a 7.4m delta but now taking the 37ft regal hard boat
Women prefer comfort, the two kids wanted an adventure and a camping trip

[Brian]

The best times (for your lady) is between tides i.e. at slack high or low water.
If it's for the kiddies, the "best" i.e. the most exciting time, is the opposite!!