OUR FAVORITE UK CRUISING DESTINATIONS
Sights Set for Summer Cruising
What makes for a good sailing destination? Sheltered bays, great scenery, cosy pubs, swim spots and good weather. Top it off with a North Sails loft and a chandlery in case of any breakages and you have everything you need. North Sails shares their favorite UK destinations and where you can drop your sails in to be serviced or repaired on your travels.
Pwllheli, Abersoch and the Llyn Peninsula in Wales is a protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s said to be the best sailing venue in Wales, one of just four in the UK that are suitable for hosting International Olympic and Youth and Junior class competitions.
Filled with beautiful seaside resorts and friendly yacht clubs such as the South Caernarvonshire Yacht Club in Abersoch, paired with a lovely climate from May-September, it is easy to see why this part of coastline is a magnet for both cruising and racing.
Devon - Plymouth, Dartmouth, Salcombe
If you fancy exploring the South Coast, Devon has lots to offer. With a North Sails representative loft in Plymouth, you are never far from a quick fix or service. Plymouth Sound’s most popular summer anchorage is Cawsand Bay, although it can be a bit exposed in strong south westerly winds.
There is a quieter alternative in Barn Pool, north of the Bridge Reef. Pop ashore for a walk around the Mount Edgecumbe Country Park. Fancy spectating some high performance sailing? Head to Plymouth for Sail GP at the end of July, if you’re not taking part in Cowes Week that is!
If you have more time we also recommend popping around the corner towards Dartmouth and Salcombe. With so many secluded spots and sheltered harbors only a few hours away, you will be spoilt for choice on this dramatic coastline!
Home to high performance racing, the Solent is always a great place to hop from one anchorage to another, especially if you are short on time. With Cowes on the Isle of Wight as a base for amenities, yacht clubs and pubs, there are plenty of lovely spots within a few miles to explore.
Surrounded by a nature reserve is the stunning Newtown Creek. Watch out as it can get busy here on weekends, but if you manage a mid-week getaway you may be lucky enough to have it to yourself. The Beaulieu River in the New Forest is sheltered and home to the National Motor Museum if British summer time catches you out with bad weather.
Scotland
Whilst the weather may leave a lot to be desired, Scotland has some of the best cruising waters in the world. Head to the Kyles of Bute and the Isle of Arran for sheltered cruising amongst small islands. For those looking for dramatic scenery, whirlpools and whisky, the Inner Hebrides is the place for you.
If you do decide to venture up to Scotland, North Sails representative Kevin Aitken will be on hand to assist should you need it.
ALL NORTH SAILS LOCATIONS
