Brittany to Dorset — 3 days from St Malo, France

Depart St Malo on the tide, cross the Channel via Alderney (the classic route avoiding the Cherbourg Approach), and reach the Dorset coast at Weymouth. This itinerary relies on tidal timing and assumes good weather; contingency harbours are positioned for weather delays or sea state management. Total distance ~95nm.

You're doing a proper Channel crossing in the best tradition. Day 1 is about 45nm to Alderney — straightforward if you time the Alderney Race for slack water; mistime it and you'll earn your pay with rough water. Day 2 is 38nm Alderney to Weymouth — longer leg but you'll have daylight and the south coast will welcome you. Watch out for Portland Race on approach, but it's manageable at slack. Expect to do a night watch on Day 1; otherwise you'll have decent rest. The coast is beautiful, the sailing is honest, and the harbours are civilized. Bring good charts, a tidal atlas, and your A-game.