Isle of Man

There is a tremendous variety of sailing from the Isle of Man - suitable for both experienced sailors and the novice, from the comparative calm of Douglas and Ramsey bays, to the rugged coastlines of the north and south of the Island. Whether its leisurely cruising or exhilarating racing, the Island is an ideal location. In addition, dinghy racing is becoming extremely popular, with regular races held on Sundays during the winter at Baldwin reservoir. The Round the Island Yacht Race is a major event in the Island's sailing calendar, but throughout the year there is a wide variety of races and trials to test sailing skills.

Besides the four main harbours mentioned below, there are good anchorages at Castletown and Derbyhaven in the south east, Laxey Bay in the east, and Port Erin in the south west. Most of the harbours are on the east coast, although, a visit to the west coast with its contrasting scenery is worthwhile.

Douglas

Shelter: good expect in the NE to S'ly winds. Heavy seas run in during NE gales. Beware of commercial traffic.

Ramsey

Shelter: good expect in NE winds. Harbour dries. Beware commercial traffic movements.

Peel

Shelter: good except in strong NW to NE winds when entry should not be attempted. Inner harbour dries.

Port St Mary

Shelter: good except in strong E/SE winds. Inner harbour dries.
Acknowledgement: DOTL

Isle of Man Yacht Club 01624 832088
Douglas Bay Yacht Club 01624 621823
Manx Yachting Association 01624 621823
Manx Sailing and Cruising Club 01624 813494
Peel Sailing and Cruising Club 01624 842390

Tourist Information +44 (0)1624 686766
Local
Airport 01624 821600
Castletown 01624 825005
Port St Mary 01624 832101
Port Erin 01624 832298 / 835858
Peel 01624 842341
Ramsey 01624 817025
Onchan 01624 621228
Ballasalla 01624 822531

Island Laws
Similar seatbelt laws to those in the United Kingdom and elsewhere apply and visiting drivers should negotiate our narrow roads and lanes with care. It is an offence on the Island to use a mobile phone whilst driving. In some of the larger towns and villages Parking Discs are required (obtainable from Isle of Man Steam Packet vessels, the Sea Terminal, airport, car hire companies and local Commissioners Offices).

The Island has a strong anti-drugs policy and illegal possession of banned substances can lead to a jail sentence if found guilty.

Trailer caravans are not permitted on the Isle of Man, without a permit. However, self-propelled motor caravans are welcome, as are tenting campers.

Licensing Laws
Liberal new Isle of Man legislation has introduced 24-hour opening for pubs, bars and off-licences. This means that all licensed premises, including nightclubs, restaurants and the Douglas casino now have the option to serve alcohol 24 hours a day.