This past weekend I travelled to Plymouth to head off sailing with my brother and my boyfriend.
I went to university in Plymouth, and this was the first time I’d returned since graduating 2 years ago so I knew I would get nostalgic… Heading off out to sea was the perfect way to spend the day though, and I had an entirely new view of Plymouth, from beyond the breakwater!
We were moored up at Plymouth Yacht Haven which, if you are in the market for a marina, is amazing. The facilities are excellent and there is the small Mountbatten Ferry (timings here) a 5 minute walk away which will connect you to Plymouth Barbican in no time at all.
Farewell and Adieu…
My boyfriend arrived shortly afterwards and we made our way back down to the boat and headed out to sea. Whilst there were no Spanish ladies on our travels, I couldn’t help but remember the lyrics to the old sea shanty, so frequently sung by my dad when I was younger!
Especially as we started to sail past Rame Head!
…Next Rame Head off Plymouth, Start, Portland, and Wight
To reach a port we must set sail…
This weekend made me remember how much I love sailing, but it also showed me how many people don’t know what they’re doing. My brother is a fully qualified, commercially endorsed Yachtmaster/Pirate Captain (not really, but he has the hair and rum drinking thing down!), so we were ok, but a lot of people out on the water seemingly didn’t have a clue.
If you’re interested in sailing, it’s definitely worth looking at the RYA website as they run so many courses, they’re all really well priced and they’re great fun. I may ask my brother to write a guest blog about sailing and some of his experiences as he has had some good tales to tell!
Can fully advise Henri Lloyd sailing gear too. I wasn’t cold at any point throughout! My trusty sailing jacket and BMW Oracle Henri Lloyd trainers have been going for about 6 years and are still fine!
Britain’s Ocean City
I am obviously very biased as I went to Plymouth University, but I truly adore Plymouth. There is so much to do.
Plymouth Hoe has spectacular views and you can often see the ferries and warships. It looks just as lovely in the evening when you can see Smeaton’s Tower and all of the navigation buoys lit up. If you want to eat, there’s the Barbican or Royal William Yard, which are lovely, full of choices and very scenic. There are also a number of bars and restaurants throughout the city. (Can recommend North Hill for the best night out, but again I am biased)
Plymouth Aquarium is also a fun activity and they have the most amazing sea turtle!
If you’re visiting and short of things to do (unlikely) then click on the Visit Plymouth website and it’s full of information!