Atlantic Ocean outlook
by Noonsite 7 Jul 2024 13:54 UTC
Atlantic Ocean © noonsite.com
France: Following the announcement last month of a new entry/exit system, meaning yachts arriving in France from outside the EU/Schengen now have a multitude of ports to choose for entry, clarification of certain points have now become available. See this article for all the details.
There are restricted areas on the French Atlantic coast, designated by French maritime authorities, due to offshore windfarm works. The Dieppe/Le Tréport area restriction is in place from the 16th June, 2024. The other area in question is located north of the Ile d'Yeu, with effect from the 12th May, 2024. Restrictions are expected to remain in place until at least the end of 2025.
Spain: An unmanned yacht with a German flag was found drifting off the island of Sagres, at the mouth of the Ria de Arousa in north-western Spain, this month. Authorities suspect it might have been involved in a drug delivery. More details here.
South Africa: It has been confirmed that Mossel Bay, on the southern Cape, is now a fully-fledged Port of Entry and can accept cruising yachts. There are berths available or yachts can anchor in the bay just outside the harbour mouth. See the Mossel Bay port page on Noonsite for more information.
USA: Dutch cruisers Flores van Hees and Ivar Smits are nearing the end of their circumnavigation and report on the process they had to go through as Dutch citizens to enter and leave the USA by yacht.
Canada: 20+ boats are planning to attempt the NW passage this year, of which 5 are OCC boats. Find out more here. OCC Port Officer Victor Wejer has been providing guidance to yachts in transit for the last 20 years and estimates that approx. 180 yachts have transited the NW passage since the first sailing yacht.
Falkland Islands: If planning to visit by yacht don't miss the latest copy of the Harbours and Port Information Booklet found on the Maritime Authority website. This is updated regularly and will include changes to the permitted anchorages, currently under way and expected to be complete by September.
This article has been provided by the courtesy of noonsite.com.