Channel

Your First Channel Crossing – a CA Channel Section Seminar

  • 31/1/2027
  • In Person
  • Share

Details

Booking Available from 19th September 2026.

For many skippers a first crossing of the English Channel is a big step in their cruising accomplishments – one undertaken with some trepidation.

In a seminar organised by the Cruising Association’s Channel Section you will hear why you would want to take your boat to France or the Channel Islands, when are the best times to go, where you might choose to arrive, what preparation you should undertake, how to actually undertake the passage and your arrival, and then some tips for cruising the coast. 

First Channel Crossing seminar

We will address many of the concerns we have heard from sailors about a first passage such as the length of the passage, being out of sight of land, avoiding big ships, entering ports with restricted access, unfamiliarity with foreign marinas, understanding international entry/exit processes, and not speaking the language.

We won’t be setting out all of what you should do, because we are all different, but we will provide a wealth of information and experience so identifying the things you should consider so you can make the best decisions and, ultimately, ensure you and your crew have a smooth passage and enjoy the rewards crossing the Channel can provide.

Agenda

  • First Channel Crossing SeminarRegistration & coffee
  • Introduction & welcome
  • The attractions of crossing the Channel
  • Cross-border paperwork and processes
  • Cross-Channel destinations
  • Boat preparation & equipment
  • Lunch
  • Planning & undertaking your crossing
  • Cruising France
  • CA Channel Rallies
  • Coffee/Tea
  • Ask the panel
  • Summary & conclusion

Comments from participants of this event in previous years include: 
"found the day very informative",
"Really enjoyed the day, well planned and welcoming",
"very helpful advice great refresher",
"great tips and pragmatic up to date advice",
"gained confidence".

This event is open to CA members and non-members.

Tickets (includes buffet lunch): 
Early booking (to 30 November 2026): Members £27, non-members £32, Special price for non-members for Southampton Boat Show) £27
Standard prices: Members £32, Non-members £37

Booking

Open for bookings from 19th September 2027

This event is open to anyone
Register
Date: Sunday, 31 January 2027
Time: 10:00 (GMT+1)
Location:
CA House, London
Tickets: Members
£27 early booking, £32 Standard
, Non-members
£32 early booking, £37 Standard, also SBS offer
.
Q&A: There will be a Q&A session at the end of the event