Different Wind Directions and Where to Sail

 

Beginner level:

As the launching area faces due south then any northerly winds ( NW, Northerly and NE) are effectively OFFSHORE. For any relatively inexperienced sailor they should be avoided.

All other wind directions are fine particularly from the SW-W. Westerly winds are particularly good for beginners, keeping them well clear of the channel, the sailing club and boat yard.

Intermediate/competent level:

It is possible to have a great sail at Hickling in any wind direction.

SW – Sail to the other side of the broad with just one or two tacks. Runs of a mile are possible.

Southerly – Sail by the area off the Club beach, or a half a dozen tacks to get to the main part of the Broad. Great speed strip by the southern edge.

SE -Sail by the area off the Club beach, or a half a dozen tacks to get to the main part of the Broad During the summer it is quite common for sea breezes to develop from the SE-E providing good sailing conditions. Peaks off Jarvis point.

Easterly – lighter with some mild gusting off the beach. Much, much stronger and steadier past the ‘point.

N/E – Good off Jarvis point, 200 m from the Beach, Great past the point too towards the river mouth.

Northerly – The wind funnels over the reeds by the Beach, good off Jarvis Point. Great along the Channel (going E-W). Takes care to tack back.

N/W – Good just off Jarvis point, 200 m from the Beach, also good further down the Broad

Westerley – Gusty in strong winds off the Beach. Strongest gusts in the bay just past the Sailing Club , steadier nearer the river mouth.

It is worth noting that wind strengths generally increase the further down the Broad that you go. There is a point (Jarvis Point) on the left as you look down the broad and beyond it the wind is generally stronger. This should be considered when choosing a sail size !!

For a full list of hazards when sailing check out the current safety information here.