Sailing on the South Coast – Three Amazing Destinations

The UK coastline is a place of immense beauty, unpredictable landscapes and picturesque mooring spots.

For centuries sailors, both enthusiast and professional, have enjoyed the sights and sounds of the English coast from Dunnet Head to Porthcurno, but there’s one area which has stood head and shoulders above the rest – the South Coast.

From the quaint seaside town of Fowey in Cornwall to the almost-tropical pleasures of the Isle of Scilly, 25 miles off the coast of Cornwall, you’ll find that there’s so much to see and do on the South Coast.

At Lyme Bay Holidays, we pride ourselves on helping all our guests enjoy their holiday to the fullest. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to three popular locations along the South Coast, so you can set sail in confidence. Let’s get started:

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Lyme Regis makes for a tremendous destination whether you’re on land or sea thanks to its beautiful sights, top shopping, amazing restaurants and more. For those arriving by sea though, Lyme Harbour is where you need to head.

With 138 drying moorings plus 25 commercial operations operating out of the harbour and space for visiting crafts up to 9 meters, it’s the perfect place to stop off once you’ve contacted the Harbourmaster.

Nestled next to the harbour at the foot of Cobb Hill is Lyme Regis Sailing Club, an unmissable destination for anyone looking to set off or settle in. On site is a well-equipped club house with a bar, galley, changing rooms for everyone, showers and a sun deck which offers a spectacular panoramic view over the harbour, sea and down the Jurassic coast.

With regular events on throughout the year and advice from seasoned south coast sailors always at hand, there are few finer places to visit on your journey around the south coast.

Sailing Club contact details:

Address: Lyme Regis Sailing Club Ltd,

The Cobb,

Lyme Regis

DT7 3JF

Email: secretary.lrscltd@gmail.com

Lyme Regis Harbour contact details:

Address: Harbourmaster’s Office

The Cobb
Lyme Regis
Dorset
DT7 3JJ

Tel: (01297) 442137
VHF Channel 16, working channel 14

Poole Harbour, Dorset

Poole Harbour is the worlds second largest natural harbour and as such, the extensive sheltered waters make for a spectacular spot for a little recreational sailing. The channel is shared with cross-channel ferries and cargo vessels, alongside fishing boats which come and go at all hours. As such, it’s a very busy waterway (especially during summer) and therefore not recommended for beginner sailors. There’s also a speed limit of 6 knots in the Little Channel and Holes Bay, though the remainder of the harbour enjoys a 10-knot speed limit.

In terms of mooring, the Dolphin Haven at Poole Town Quay is a purpose built, state of the art boat haven offering 100 pontoon berths with water and electricity – the perfect spot from which to base yourself as you explore the delights of Poole. There are also approximately 3,500 privately owned or contracted swinging moorings in the harbour.

Contact details:

Harbour Master: Peter Booth

Address: The Harbour Office
20 New Quay Road
Hamworthy
Poole
Dorset
BH15 4AF

Tel: (01202) 440233
Fax: (01202) 440231

VHF Channel 14

Weymouth Harbour, Dorset

Weymouth is an extremely popular destination for sailors and traditional tourists alike, and for obvious reasons – it’s home to wonderful dining, history and culture. It also boasts a quite wonderful harbour that provides a friendly welcome with a berthing that’s right at the heart of the popular city.

Weymouth Harbour doesn’t require pre-booking, simply call Channel 12 as you approach the harbour and you’ll be allocated a berth, many of which benefit from fresh water, electricity and more modern amenities. Your first half an hour stay is free too, so there’s no reason not to take a trip down to Weymouth Harbour.

Contact details:

Harbour Master: Keith Howorth

Address: Weymouth Harbour Office
Weymouth & Portland Borough Council
13 Custom House Quay
Weymouth
Dorset
DT4 8BG

Tel: (01305) 838423

VHF Channel 12