 Jamestown : Profile
Visiting yachts anchor in front of the main settlement at Jamestown, east of the local small boats in 17-21 metres (GPS 15.55.975 S, 5.43.174 W). One must not anchor too far east as there is a telephone cable on the seabed – notice and indications to this effect are painted on the rock overlooking the anchorage. Although there are still a few mooring buoys in place no one is prepared to accept responsibility for their reliability so visiting yachts are advised not to use them.
If going ashore, there is a private ferry service operated by Mr Yon. Call “ferry service” on ch. 16 between 0600 and 1900hrs. Have fenders ready on the side towards quay. It costs £1/person.
The Port Captain, Barry Williams, is very helpful and a mine of local information. He is the best person to ask for local advice on repairs.
According to the Port Captain around 200 yachts called at the island in 2004, and as a result facilities for visiting yachts are being constantly improved although the deep anchorage and absence of proper moorings discourage longer stays.
The entire area in The Anchorage with a depth less than 16m is occupied by the local fishing and lighter fleet that are moored with floating lines that interconnect the boats and various buoys. Any vessel that draws more than several cm or that cannot safely pass over floating lines needs to stay well outside the area. If you arrive during daylight, the ferry will normally come out to help direct you to the shallower spots with good holding off the landing steps.
WARNING: All vessels anchor in James Bay but the holding is very poor. Ensure your anchor is well set before going ashore and check the position of your vessel on a regular basis. Many a vessel has had to be collected on the horizon after it had dragged anchor.
Landing on the slippery quay can be quite hazardous if a swell is running, which often the case. Occasionally it may be impossible to land.
Next to the blue yacht club building, on the quayside, are showers and a double sink for laundry.
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