Cross Channel cruise in company to the Channel Isles
Published 16:05 on 8 Jul 2025
CROSS CHANNEL CRUISE IN COMPANY 2025
5 boats took part in our Cross channel venture this year, when the weather was reasonably kind to us. Four boats set out for Cherbourg on 20th and 21st of June, Midsummers day, and we were met at St Peter Port by Andrew and Karen on Slipstream returning from a cruise to Northern Brittany. Ken and Mary were delighted to make it all the way on Forget Me Knot for this, Marys first channel crossing.
Grace, Charles Dingle's crew on Wakatere, volunteered to write up the cruise, that we hope will be a regular feature in years to come. The formalities were not onerous, indeed almost non-existent.
Grace writes below:
Summer Cruise to Cherbourg, Sark, Guernsey & Dartmouth June 2025
The summer rally kicked off with Wakatere and Cheeky Monkey II setting out on a night passage: the two boats made good speed across the shipping lanes beneath a starry sky, eventually making it into Cherbourg by mid-afternoon Saturday.
Meanwhile, Kiwi and Forget Me Knot made an early morning dash across the Channel on Saturday, arriving later that day to a busy and sun-soaked Cherbourg marina. Saturday evening saw pontoon drinks in the sunshine for the late arrivals, while Wakatere and Cheeky Monkey II ventured out to L'Antidote for dinner before enjoying many drinks at the Cherbourg street music festival.
By Sunday, all four yachts had found berths on the visitor pontoons. Wakatere's crew managed a resupply trip to Carrefour before they closed. After the tail enders had reported to the Police aux Frontiere in the marina that evening, we all had drinks in the sunshine, followed by a very good meal in the marina restaurant, L'Equipe.
Wakatere and Cheeky Monkey II joined Kiwi for the next passage to Sark. Over a few drinks, Cheeky Monkey II had been convinced to come along for the ride, despite needing to be back for work the next week. Early on Monday morning, Cheeky Monkey II, Kiwi and Wakatere set off to catch the tide. It was slightly lumpy beating to Pt de La Hague, but filled with sunshine and views of an impressive square rigger sailing up channel, before reaching the Alderney race as the tide turned. The tide tried to carry us east, requiring us to motor into Sark. The best shelter was found in a stunning spot behind Point Robert Lighthouse, where after picking up moorings, we all reunited for drinks under the sunset in the most incredible setting. A peaceful evening of stargazing followed.
Tuesday saw Cheeky Monkey II leave early to catch the tide homeward. Meanwhile, the crews of Kiwi and Wakatere swam in Sark's clear but cold waters and hiked up to the top of the island, rewarded with pints and postcards in the small beautiful town where tractors, not cars, are the main transport. After a not so restful Monday night, Wakatere opted to make for St Peter Port, while Kiwi stayed for one more night in Sark. Cheeky Monkey II made it safely back to Haslar.
On Wednesday, Wakatere's crew enjoyed a sunny wander through St Peter Port before welcoming Forget Me Knot who sailed directly from Cherbourg, followed soon by Kiwi. While Kiwi's crew explored the Guernsey beaches, Forget Me Knot discovered Thai food ashore, and others made do with their remaining provisions.
Thursday brought a relaxed pace and a wander around Guernsey. Later that day, Slipstream arrived after a month-long sailing and cycling adventure in northern France. All crews gathered for a hearty club dinner at the Slaughterhouse—sharing food, stories, and farewells.
On Friday morning, Wakatere and Kiwi set off with limited visibility on their passage to Dartmouth, leaving St Peter Port southwards to St Martins Point and then westward as the fog cleared. They enjoyed fast sailing and an incredible moment with dolphins (distracting Wakateres helmswoman) before the weather closed in. After a misty and slow run into the river, both boats finally reached Darthaven Marina by 10pm for a well-earned hot meal. Kiwi was grateful to find a supply of Camping Gaz, having run out en route.
Saturday saw Wakatere put her crew on the steam train to London, while Kiwi prepared for a night sail back to Haslar, opting to spend Sunday night in East Cowes. Charles on Wakatere sailed on single handed to Portland before making a return to the Solent.
Meanwhile Forget Me Knot and Slipstream had returned to Cherbourg, and sailed back to Gosport arriving back on Monday 30th, followed by Wakatere on Wednesday 2nd.
A wonderful mix of sailing, sunshine, scenery, and great company—summer sailing at its best.
By Grace Flitter
Photos of the trip in the gallery here.
Last updated 07:39 on 9 July 2025