I would rent for next trip across English channel and not bother to buy one for coastal cruising, what do you all do ? I`d be very interested to know.
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Just think about it.

Is the English Channel deeper than the Bristol Channel?

Is the Bristol Channel deeper than the Solent?

Is the Solent deeper than the Serpentine?

Is the English Channel colder than the Bristol Channel?

Is the Bristol Channel colder than the Serpentine?

I only know that all 3 are a bloody sight deeper than I am tall, when on tiptoe to my statuesque height of 6' (ok I exagerate a bit).

I also know, that I wouldn't want to be swimming in any of them for hours at this time of year!

So YES, I'd prefer to have a liferaft, should the proverbial hit the fan!

Also, unless you are sailing SOLO, YOU are responsible for the lives & welfare of all the others on board.

You cannot order one from e-bay when you are up to your neck in cold deadly water, so consider the consequences, not the cost!