Sailing to Alderney

Sailing to Alderney, Channel Islands

Alderney is the most northerly and third largest island in the Channel Islands, an archipelago of islands situated off the North Coast of Normandy in France.  The Channel Islands are British Crown Dependencies and as such are not part of the UK or EU but possessions of the British Crown with their own independent administrations.

Alderney is very different from its popular neighbours Jersey and Guernsey.  It is only 3.5 miles by 1.5 miles in size and has just over 1900 inhabitants.  Life is quieter, unspoiled and more relaxed when compared to the UK.  Alderney has an old-world charm and in my humble opinion is an unbeatable destination to escape the hassles of everyday life. I spent a summer here once living and working on the island and it still holds a very special place in my heart.  Being only 60 miles from the UK mainland and only 10 miles from mainland France it makes for a great sailing destination.

From Poole or the Needles, it is a full-day sail.  Make sure you plan your arrival into Alderney, there are very strong tides and currents around the island.  Visit the Visit Alderney site has a great sailing section with all the information you need to know once you arrive safely.

Things to Do in Alderney

Despite it’s laid-back atmosphere there is plenty to see and do once you arrive in Alderney.

Beaches

There are several beautiful white sandy beaches on Alderney that are clean and safe for swimming or snorkelling. Braye Bay, Saye Bay and Longis Bay are all within easy reach of the Harbour Area.

Bike Hire

If you don’t have a bike on board then why not hire a bike?  There is no better way to tour the island than by bike. There are two cycle hire companies on Alderney, Automotion situated by the harbour and Cycle and Surf situated at the bottom of Victoria Street in St Anne’s.  I have rented a bike from Cycle and Surf and found them to be very helpful and the bike was in excellent condition.

Nature

Alderney is famous for, among other things, Puffins, Black Honeybees and Blonde Hedgehogs!  With two nature reserves in its 3 square miles, there are plenty of opportunities to see a wide and varied collection of birds and animals.

Walks

With over 50 miles of winding lanes, rugged clifftop paths, beaches and open landscapes Alderney has some of the most beautiful scenery in the UK.  The tourist office has compiled some great leaflets detailing the most popular walks around the island.  Just what you need the stretch the legs after spending hours cramped up on the boat!

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