Chris is just passionate about the views from his Waterside Marina apartment

Chris West bought his 3 bedroom apartment at the Waterside Marina, Brightlingsea because of its excellent sailing facilities. “It is unique in that it is part of a private marina with 60 berths for apartment owners only and very fast routes out to sea”.

waterside views

He talks about the views from his apartment with a passion. Overlooking Mersea Island, the most eastern isle in England, and a nature reserve across a huge expanse of water is something rather special. Chris describes: “it feels like you’re in the sky because you have such a panoramic view. The sunsets are stunning and the rain is dramatic as you watch weather fronts out at sea ...”

Lots of light and high build quality

light and airy

Chris and his wife have lived in many period properties over the years including a large Edwardian house, 60s house and latterly a Victorian cottage. He decided to buy a new build mainly because the light is so much better and the maintenance low. He visited a number of new builds before choosing Waterside Marina and was impressed by the high build quality and finish of the apartments.

Sailing on the East coast about as good as it gets

excellent sailing

The couple are keen sailors who have recently sailed as far away as Norway on their boat. Chris describes how his new home suits his sailing life down to the ground. “Most importantly the sailing on this part of the east coast is just about as good as it gets. You can be out to sea in 10 minutes unlike other marinas, where you have to navigate rivers and locks and weave around all the local boats before being able to get up to speed in the open water. It’s safe too, if I run aground here all I have to do is to wait for the tide and I’m away. The mud bed means there is no risk of rocks damaging the underside of the boat. Once you’re out in the North Sea you can head off to Holland, Norway or France. The waters are shallow and you’re never more than 150 miles from the coastline”.

Perfect for the lock up and leave lifestyle

The Waterside Marina is perfect for this lock up and leave lifestyle with secure underground parking and the option to berth close by when you’re at home. Added to that Chris describes what it is like to be part of this vibrant sailing community of about 8000 people. “It has all the benefits of a smaller community spirit with a very friendly welcome extended to visitors”. There are plenty of those, sailing enthusiasts from across the UK, Germany and Scandinavia all make use of the large harbour that can welcome up to 600 vessels. The music festival in July, which Chris helps to organise, is also a big draw with bands playing across the weekend in venues all round the town. To sum up, Chris has found a place that he loves that gives a feeling of permanently being on holiday. He calls The Waterside Marina at Brightlingsea the Essex coast’s “best kept secret”.

Find out more about Brightlingsea

Find out more about sailing in Brightlingsea

Find out more about fishing in Brightlingsea