The Mersea Tide
Plan Your Journey
"Despite the ongoing march of development Mersea manages to retain some of its former island magic.
At full moon and new moon the sea water slowly creeps over the mud onto the Strood causeway and Mersea becomes, for a while, truly an island, cut off from the mainland.
When the tide covers the Strood we do not recommend you attempt to cross, as this could be dangerous for you and damage your vehicle and other peoples vehicles." from West Mersea Town Council
If the tide is 5.00 metres and above it will more than likely cover the Strood. In this case we would recommend allowing up to an hour and a half either side of the tide to get on or off the island safely.
So, make sure you know your tide times. You can get these at Mersea Island StroodCam or there are plenty of local tide tables available in local businesses to pick up. You can also view the Strood in real time on StroodCam.
BASIC RULES TO REMEMBER
1. Your car is not a boat and it won't float
2. You will put yourself and others in danger if you attempt 'to drive thru' the water.
3. Salt water is not good for your car
4. Everyone can see you on StroodCam if you get stranded
5. You will not be popular (please refer to point 4)