The Channel Islands include the larger islands of Jersey and Guernsey which are both Offshore Finance Centres, Alderney (famous for seabird life such as Puffins) and the smaller car-free Isle of Sark and Herm Island. For holiday-makers travelling from both Mainland Europe and the UK, these islands are easily accessible as they are conveniently located between the French Coast and the South Coast of England.
Unsurprisingly, a whole range of water sports are very popular in the Channel Islands including sailing, scuba diving, surfing and windsurfing. Guernsey, in particular has many absolutely stunning beaches which are ideal for different water sports.
Travel to Jersey and Guernsey, Channel Islands
Jersey and Guernsey both have excellent marina facilities for those keen on yachting or cruising with yacht clubs and regular competitions and events held throughout the year. Ferry services operated by Manche Iles Express and Condor Ferries connect the islands with St. Malo in France and the UK ports of Weymouth, Poole and Portsmouth.
The modern airports on the islands have regular flights to the European destinations of Paris, Zurich and Geneva, as well as many connections to airports all over the UK including London, Southampton, Manchester, Birmingham, Bournemouth, Bristol, Edinburgh and Exeter. Most of these travel routes are operated by Blue Islands, Aurigny and Flybe.
Windsurfing Around Jersey and Guernsey
Windsurfing is a popular local sport in the Channel Islands throughout the year, although outside the peak summer season a wetsuit is crucial! In Guernsey there is the Guernsey Boardsailing Association which promotes the sport and organises various races, competitions and events as well as social during the year.
On the larger island of Jersey there is a similar body known as JAWS which stands for the Jersey Association of Windsurfers and provides comprehensive information on all aspects of windsurfing.
Jersey Windsurfing Lessons
For those wishing to try out the sport of windsurfing, Jersey Odyssey are able to offer both hour long lessons and equipment hire. Active Island Sports are located at St. Belade's Bay and offer friendly windsurfing instruction and equipment for all ages. The Jersey Association of Windsurfers welcome those of all ages and abilities and members are covered by the association's insurance scheme.
Guernsey Windsurfing Lessons
For absolute novices to experienced windsurfers, Guernsey has much to offer with the most popular bay for high winds being Vazon and other popular locations for the sport include Cobo, Grandes Rocques and Ladies Bay. There are qualified instructors providing excellent tuition and equipment hire at both Pembroke and Ladies Bay.
As highlighted above, water sports have long since been a very popular past-time in the Channel Islands with both Jersey and Guernsey having excellent tuition and facilities for those keen on surfing, sailing, scuba diving and windsurfing. Family lessons are also available making these water sports a great activity for the whole family to enjoy.
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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