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The forecast wasn't great for our planned trip round Start Point. However we were keen to press on and with favourable tides from HW Dover -2½hrs (0915) to HW Dover +4hrs (1545) and the wind expected to be on the beam as we rounded the headland and onwards we decided that it was at least worth going for a look. If conditions towards Start Point were worse than expected we would return to seek a better berth in Dartmouth for our second night. On the assumption that we felt it was fine to press on, given the likely conditions we planned to stay around 2½ miles offshore past Start and Prawle Points then cut across Bigbury Bay for Plymouth or if the going was better than expected, Falmouth. Our exit options were effectively limited to pressing on or returning.
Rather than the F5/6 forecast the winds were pretty much F6/7 from the SSE all the way. Initially the wind was on the bow and as we motor sailed into the freshening wind the seas began to increase. Once at the end of Start Bay were able to make good progress without the engine and as we bore off E of Start point the wind was a gusty F6/7 and the seas were at the top end of Rough if not above. However the boat proved her sea kindliness and with initially two and latterly three reefs in and a small jib, progress was swift. Although we had good shelter in the cockpit, given the conditions we opted for Plymouth rather than pressing on to Falmouth. At 6.2 knots our average speed under sail was only marginally slower than our trip across the Forth Estuary to Eyemouth. Other than the swell there were no real issues with the passage.
We opted for Sutton Harbour mainly because of its location and lock (no swell) as the likelihood of an extended stay was high with an updated forecast predicting SW F8 with a V. Rough Sea State. While at £33 per night it was the most expensive berth of our entire trip it was a good choice; the facilities, location and service were excellent. We were allocated a berth when we phoned some 1½ miles out which was confirmed by the lock keeper when he swung the bridge (no waiting) and there was someone at the pontoons to guide us in and catch our lines.
With the National Aquarium and much more, Plymouth was a perfect stop for the three days we ended up having to stay there.