Crossing The Channel?

Question

Hey,

I was wondering if it would be possible to cross the channel (Dover - Calis) in a 15ft cuddy fishing boat powered by a 50hp outboard? I am aware that it would be POSSIBLE but i was wondering if it would be regarded as relitively normal?

Thanks,

Jonny

Answer 1

Well, you'll be crossing one of the busiest shipping lanes in Europe (if not the world) through some of the most congested waters in the world in little more than a bathtub. Most large ships have a blind spot ahead of them of about 3 or 4 miles, so they're never going to see you visually. Your visibility will be limited to about 6 miles, even if you stand up. At 20-plus knots a big ship 6 miles away will be on top of you in 15 minutes, that doesn't leave much time for you to get out of his way.

I wouldn't recommend you do it, but if you must then carry a good radar reflector as high up as you can get it. Also have several white hand-held "collision avoidance" flares available to at least give the big ships a fighting chance of seeing you. And for heaven's sake don't even think of going at night!