Alex Smith takes an extended weekend to soak in the atmosphere at the UK’s ‘continental’ boat show.

Having only committed to Englishness in the 1820s, following the defeat of Napoleon, Jersey is about as French as a British place can be - and with the implications that this has for the food and the pace of life, it is inevitable that most of us are pretty keen to visit. The fact that it also has a vast tidal range that can double the island’s landmass at low water makes it a devilishly interesting place for the recreational boater, and its geographical location, just off the north coast of France brings with it climatic benefits that the mainland visitor tends to enjoy.

Despite an unseasonal flurry of northerly winds during our own visit, Boat Show weekend is a fine time to organise your trip. You can come by ferry or by aeroplane but, if you bring your own boat, it has to be registered at the Harbour Office on arrival. Insurance documents are required as a matter of course, so if you treat it as you would a trip to France (and make sure you and your boat are equipped to the same degree) you should get on fine. For more details regarding registration and insurance, contact the Harbour Office in St Helier (01534 885588).