[paulk]

You may want to try posting on AOL''s rec.boat.racing page; they seem to have visitors from England frequently. You may also want to reconsider your cruising ideas. The English Channel in November will NOT be a lake. The Scillies are "warmer", yes, because of the Gulf Stream, but that causes nasty weather, especially when the season starts to turn cooler. (Bermuda Triangle situation is similar.) Currents, especially near the south tip of England are fierce, and constantly changing. We sailed to the Scillies one August as part of a transatlantic & European trip. It was warm enough then to swim, but only just. Most boats - especially charter boats large enough for the passage - will likely be put up for the winter by then. Look for more info from better sources, but I think that''s what you''ll find.