Channel Islands – July 2026 ⛵️🐬
As someone who only started sailing a few months before this trip, having completed my ‘Start Yachting’ and ‘Competent Crew’ with Salty Sailing, this was a fantastic opportunity to bed in some new skills on my first sailing holiday and passage.
Myself and four others were made to feel right at home the moment we stepped on board. Precision is a very comfortable boat, with everything you need for a trip like this. She sails well and offers the opportunity for hands-on sailing or simply relaxing in the fresh sea air.
Over the course of seven days, the weather provided smooth seas and gorgeous scenery. Nothing beats being surrounded by open water, dolphins dancing around the bow and good company. Our skipper, Hugo, is an experienced and genuine guy, giving us ample opportunities to feel part of the Salty family.
Most of the time, we enjoyed breakfast and lunch on board and looked to try the local favourites in the evenings, although Hugo also seems to be quite the chef! Precision comes with all provisions included, although you can bring extras should you wish.
Our itinerary was pretty flexible and did depend on the predicted weather, but we were pretty lucky!
Day 1 – Cowes > Alum Bay
Alum Bay was the perfect place to stop before heading out into the Channel, destined for the Channel Islands. It’s in view of the famous Needles and rainbow cliffs!
During the day, we stopped for lunch in Newtown Creek, a lovely place to swim and see the local seals. Following on, we went to the port town of Yarmouth, giving us the chance to shop like a local.
Day 2 – Alum Bay > Alderney
This was a short 10–12 hour trip across the Channel. The sea state was smooth and made for some stunning pictures.
We had a watch system, so we all had the chance to be at the helm and part of the crew. It was great to pass the time and have some responsibility. After all, a sailing holiday is about the journey as well as the destination (so cringe, but so true!).
The cockpit on Precision is a really social space, giving us a chance to share experiences and relax.
Arriving into Alderney, we dropped anchor in Braye Bay and went to the Braye Bay Hotel for food and drinks. A great place with good views.
Day 3 – Alderney > Guernsey
An early start to go with the tides allowed us to see the sunrise across the open sea, shortly after passing Puffin Island. Sadly, the puffins must have had a lie-in, as none were seen! :(
Arriving in St Peter Port and staying overnight meant we could explore the island. We made use of the local sea train and buses, as well as the high street. Yet again, more shopping!
A highly recommended restaurant called ‘China Red’ was the evening’s entertainment. It’s just what you’d expect from the moment you walk in. A great choice!
Day 4 – Guernsey > Herm
After doing some provisioning, we set sail to Belvoir Bay on Herm. It’s a lovely, small beach with some great photo opportunities.
We dropped anchor and took the tender into the beach for the afternoon. Another beautiful spot for a swim from the boat!
Day 5 – Herm > Alderney
Our first trip to Alderney was an overnight stay, but we returned as it was a good place to be ahead of our trip back across the Channel.
Alderney offers great hiking and cycling opportunities, as well as good food and drinks. We walked the entire coastline – 11 miles and countless hidden beaches!
The evening saw us eat on another boat in the harbour, a friend of Salty’s, making for great company and proper boat-life vibes.
Day 6 – Alderney > Lymington
An early start and sails up for the crossing back to the UK. The sea state started smooth but got a little more adventurous towards the end. It was something I wanted to experience, so that was fun!
We started to ride the waves whilst heeling in a 1m swell. There was certainly more shipping around too.
Getting into the Solent made for some exciting conditions to get the mainsail down. We all felt like proper sailors!
Lymington is a lovely place to spend the night, with a great harbour and lots of choice for eateries. Tonight was curry! :)
Day 7 – Lymington > Cowes
All good things come to an end, with a headsail trip back to Cowes and the wind on our necks.
There was some racing in the Solent around Yarmouth, and it’s just amazing to experience from the water! How they get so close to each other and never crash, I’ll never know. :)
Once disembarking from Precision after a fantastic week, I came away feeling refreshed, with new friends and good memories.
There is always something new to learn with sailing, and that’s the best bit! I can highly recommend a Salty Sailing Holiday. You can do it with no sailing experience, in the knowledge that you are safe and well catered for.
I certainly will be going again – there’s always more to explore!
Gareth (the author).
Gareth started his yachting journey with Salty this year, joining us for several courses and cruises along the way. In a relatively short time, he has become a valued part of our community — and, more importantly, a friend.
Missed out one a trip this year? See our 2027 dates below:
1st - 3rd May - Sail around the Isle of Wight
17th - 23rd May - Dartmouth & Salcombe Cruise
14th - 20th June - Channel Islands Cruise
12th - 18th July - Channel Islands Cruise
21st - 25th August - Sail to Dartmouth
6th - 12th September - Channel Islands Cruise
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