I wanted to sail to Cherbourg one last time the conditions look good, so off I went. 16 June Hythe to Hurst. E mailed UK border force and French customs. 17 June we left Hurst at 04.00. We usually go between the lighthouse and goose rock, however this time used main channel; getting old. On main and engine 09-30 crossed shipping lanes, not much traffic. Viz not great, 11.30 see France arrived Cherbourg 15.30, topped up with fuel, then had long walk to customs to get stamped in and out leaving 03-30 on 18th set alarm for 03.30, forgot French 1hr ahead, so alarm went off at 02.00 my time, went back to bed. Lovely. Good crossing with a bit more wind, lovely sunrise, arrived at the Needles 14.45 back in Hythe at 18.00. The new number to report arrival in UK is 07880054844 they the tell you you can take Down your Q flag. The French don’t bother.
Sounds fantastic, I have a similar trip planned in a months time. I would love to hear the full story some time, with any hints or tips.