United Kingdom - The Island Nation
Since it’s an island nation, the United Kingdom has had a long tradition of sailing in order to maintain ties with mainland Europe. Sailors par excellence, the British also have plenty of scenic spots around their island where to enjoy the wind in their sails. The south of the island in particular is yacht-friendly, regions like Solent where sailing is a national pastime.
General Info
A country that has one of the highest numbers of yacht per head of population in the world is bound to be a Yacht Charter haven and the United Kingdom does not divert from the rule. This archipelago of islands in the western part of Europe has lots of sailing spots along its fringed coastline, as well as in the neighboring smaller islands (the Island of Wight, the Scillies, Orkneys and Shetlands).
As previously mentioned, the most popular Yacht Charter region is Solent, in the south, together with the Island of Wight, the southwest part of the island with the counties of Devon, East Anglia and Cornwall and the western coast of Scotland. The coastline varies from high cliffs to rolling plains that give way to shallow beaches.
Most of the relief is made up of rolling hills, especially in the Yacht Charter-friendly south and green plains, with the highest altitude on the island being 1343m somewhere in Scotland. The fact that in Britain you’re never more than 50 miles from the sea results in most urban agglomerations doubling up as ports which is good news for the Yacht Charter skipper looking for a mooring place.
In fact, the only deterrent to most European Yacht Charter sailors is the weather. If it weren’t for the famous capricious British weather, the English archipelago would probably be one of the most sought after destinations for sailing. Unfortunately, the mild and temperate climate is influenced by the Atlantic and the Gulf Stream with significant quantities of rainfall on coastal regions.
The most pleasant time for sailing is during the summer months, between May and October when the prevailing winds blow from the west (during winter, the direction shifts to eastern/northern). Another deterrent, especially for beginner Yacht Charter sailors, are the strong tides which are present around the United Kingdom coasts.
Law & Order
Because the United Kingdom is a member of the EU, the rules of immigration within the European Union apply here. Boats coming from other EU countries need to contact customs only if they have goods to declare or have non-EU citizens onboard. Also, Yacht Charter holidaymakers should keep in mind the UK is not part of the Schengen Area.
Citizens of countries who are members of the EU don’t need entry visas for stay up to 6 months, provided they can show proof of sufficient funds. If you are from a country that does require a visa, please apply for one at a British embassy or consulate, although the immigration officer can deny entry in the country even if the person holds a valid visa.
As far as customs go, the usual products must be declared: meat (or any other animal product), potatoes, certain fruits and vegetables, certain articles made from endangered species (fur, ivory, and reptile leather). These will most likely be confiscated upon entry in the country. Yacht Charter skippers should keep in mind that VHF radios that have not been approved in the UK are not valid and can’t be operated while in British waters.