Moving on 19th May 2019

Ramsgate to Eastbourne
Now the tides were slightly better, we decided to try for plan a again and move on rapidly. This meant an early start as we were sailing from Ramsgate to Sovereign Harbour (Eastbourne).

The mooring ropes were dropped at 05.01 (a minute late!) As soon as we left the harbour a pan pan came on the radio, all marinas were asked to look for a small vessel in the channel. So we kept a wary open. The weather was not very good, showery and misty. so we didn't get many good views. Just before we reached South Foreland we passed an anchored ship, Patricia. She is one of the Trinity Lighthouse fleet. Her job is to lay and reposition various buoys and lightships. We heard later in the day she was working in the channel.

A misty Dover in the distance.

South Foreland through the mist.

Patricia

On the way to Dover the coastguard let us all know that the pan pan had been resolved as the boat was being 'assisted' by Seeker (Border Force). In fact as we were approaching Dover, Seeker was asking permission to enter. We also heard on the radio a ship reporting another suspicious vessel, they were asked to keep the Coast Guard updated. Later we heard Seeker being sent out to this boat. On the news that night was the fact that two migrant boats had been intercepted. Our Border Patrols work hard.

We were lucky going past Dover as there were only two ferries, one in and one out, they were miles in front of us so we didn't have to take any evasive action. Even though we have to ring up Dover Port Authority to let them know we are passing, they are always so polite and thank us for radioing in.

Well wrapped up Skipper and Navigator.

The tides were with us and we had good speed, over 7 knots for two hours, but not dropping below 6 knots. Sadly there was no wind and we did have to motor most of the way. The tides changed after we passed Dungeness (as we knew they would), so our speed slowed. The firing range was not in use so we could cut a bit of a corner.

A wobbly Dungeness.

Pleased with this passage as we entered the harbour at 14.55 and through the lock and fully moored by 15.22.

Looking at these pictures you can see why you need to stick to the channel when entering the harbour.

Sailoring information
Ramsgate to Eastbourne 60.6nm
Time taken 9 hours 55 minutes to the lock
Average speed 6 knots

Sovereign Harbour is a modern well equipped marina. Good toilet facilities and laundry room.

Lots of eateries near by and an ASDA in walking distance. There is also a cinema if you are there for a while. A decent but pleasant walk into Eastbourne, but you can catch the bus from Asda

Efficient locking system, there are two locks, one in and one .out. You enter the lock and they close the gate to commence locking in or out on the hour and half hour.

Sovereign Harbour is part of a group, you can buy 7 nights for the price of 5. These can be redeemed at the majority of their marinas. This makes the per night stay £24.28. You have to use all nights within a 12 month period.

Our route.