Never expect the sea state to stay the same as when you set out. Marine weather forecasts tell you what the weather is expected to do, but there’s no guarantee it won't get worse. Keep an eye out for unforecasted changes of clouds, wind direction, and strength.

The Coastguard app

The free Coastguard app has up to the minute weather reports with Nowcasting, along with 5-day forecasts for planning your trip.

Coastguard VHF Radio

Live weather reports are broadcast four times daily via Coastguard Radio and cover recreational forecasts, sea areas, tides, navigation warnings, and local station notices. Wind warnings are broadcast as soon as they're issued, and every two hours until they are cancelled. Coastguard's Nowcasting service broadcasts real-time marine weather information and forecasts. It's available continuously via your local Nowcasting channel.