[Davidrogerson]

I am a Yachtmaster who has crossed the channel several times. the tides are not to much of a problem if you time your departure right, they will push you one way then back the other. The main problem you COULD encouter is heavy weather but if you check the forecast and read the synoptics you should be fine. Then the Main problem you WILL encounter is commercial shipping the only way you can counteract this is to keep a VERY good watch.
Have fun