the + sea

[Verona_82]

Hello,

I'm having problems with the usage of articles in phrases with the word 'sea'. I'd be grateful if someone could have a look at my examples and tell me if they are all fine:

(1) He lives in a cottage by the sea.
(2) The goods were transported by sea.
(3) The hotel has a wonderful location near the sea.
(4) We never went to the sea when I was a child.
(5) He decided to become a sailor and went to sea at the age of 18.
(6) We spent our summer holiday at the sea.
(7) The ship's engine broke down while at sea.

I'm having doubts about Nos (4) and (6)..

Thank you.

[apex2000]

Mostly fine,
4. we would say - we never went to the seaside (beach), and
6. holiday by the sea.

[Verona_82]

Thank you!

Are there any situations where a native speaker might say 'at the sea' ? (since we can say 'at the seaside')

[apex2000]

We would not use 'at the sea' in normal circumstances. For us the sea is that large body of water stretching way out to the horizon. We use that bit of it that comes up to the beach and as far out as it may be safe to swim. That is why we say seaside - alongside the sea, beside the sea.