West Country Cruise

The West Country Cruise is a twelve day offshore cruising adventure exploring some of the most picturesque harbours and cruising grounds in the South West of England. Starting from Hamble Point Marina, the cruise follows the South Coast westwards via Dartmouth, Salcombe, Plymouth, Fowey and Falmouth, with the possibility of continuing to the Isles of Scilly if weather and time allow.

Designed for sailors looking to extend their coastal and offshore passage making experience, the cruise combines enjoyable cruising with practical hands-on sailing and navigation. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, crew members take part in passage planning, watch keeping, pilotage, navigation and yacht handling throughout the trip. The varied nature of the cruise provides valuable experience in tidal planning, overnight sailing and longer coastal passages.

The route includes a mixture of marina stops, harbour moorings and overnight anchorages, giving a genuine cruising experience aboard a modern sailing yacht. Highlights may include sailing around Portland Bill and The Lizard, crossing to the Isles of Scilly, and overnight passages along the South West coast.

This cruise is ideal for those building mileage and confidence offshore while enjoying some of the finest cruising waters in the UK.

Day 1

Arrive at Hamble Point Marina. Introduction to yacht, safety briefing, passage planning and preparation. Depart the Solent for Poole or Weymouth. Practice navigation, collision avoidance, coastal passage making and pilotage techniques.

Day 2

Early departure towards Dartmouth via Portland Bill. Practice offshore navigation, tidal gates and watch keeping.

Day 3

Sail from Dartmouth to Salcombe.

Day 4

Explore Salcombe before sailing to Newton Ferrers with coastal pilotage practice. Overnight mooring and passage planning.

Day 5

Sail to Falmouth and moor overnight.

Day 6

Pass The Lizard and Lands End before crossing to the Isles of Scilly. Anchor off Tresco.

Day 7

Cruise between the Scilly Isles with inshore pilotage and time ashore.

Day 8

Return to the mainland via Penzance, Newlyn or Mousehole.

Day 9

Coastal sail to the Helford River, Fowey or Polruan with overnight anchorage.

Day 10

Sail towards Plymouth or Brixham.

Day 11

Tidal departure and overnight passage with watch keeping.

Day 12

Return via the Needles and the Solent to Hamble Point Marina. Debrief, logbooks and departure

This itinerary should be treated as a guide as ports visited may vary due to prevailing and forecast weather conditions.

From: £1,495

No scheduled dates are currently shown for this cruise. Please get in touch and we will be happy to discuss availability and future course dates.

Additional Information

Everything You Need Before You Sail

Get your joining pack for practical details, what to bring, and what to expect on your course.

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FAQs

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No previous sailing experience is needed. The RYA Competent Crew course is designed for complete beginners, and your instructor will guide you through everything step by step. By the end of the course, you should feel confident helping to sail the yacht, handling ropes, steering and taking part in everyday life on board. All you need to bring is a willingness to learn and get involved. visit our Training or Learn to Sail page for skill‑level requirements.

We recommend comfortable clothing, non‑slip shoes, sunscreen, and any personal items you may need. A full checklist is available on our Preparation page.

Our cancellation and refund terms are outlined on the Terms & Conditions page. If you have questions about rescheduling, our Contact page is the best place to get quick assistance.

We provide a range of sailing experiences including private charters, training, and corporate events.

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