Weymouth Bay & Portland Harbour Boat Trip
Join us for a scenic cruise around Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour. Enjoy views of the esplanade and cliffs in the distance, before heading into Portland Harbour as the sun begins to set. These trips always take place in the evening and are a great way to end a day of exploring during a holiday in Weymouth. Sometimes we’re even lucky enough to see seals!
During the 90-minute boat trip we cruise down the sea front and then loop into Portland Harbour. We’ll then take a look at some of Weymouth’s most historic maritime sites, including abandoned WWII forts, the Mulberry Harbours (involved in the Normandy landings) and TV Tristram, which is used to train the Royal Marines. As we pass the commercial port, we often see visiting cruise ships and plenty of seabirds. In the summer Portland Harbour (once home to the 2012 Olympics) is a hive of activity, with plenty going on.
This is a relaxed sightseeing tour without a commentary. Advanced booking essential.
Duration: 1 hour 30 mins
Price: £20 per person
Maximum capacity: 12 passengers + crew
See full trip description and FAQ's below
2023 update - we have expanded and have 2 new boats for this season!
What does the Weymouth Bay & Portland boat trip involve?
Find our fleet of charters boats, Snapper and Jurassic are moored outside Bennetts Fish and Chip Shop at Weymouth’s historic harbour. Once we’ve collected our passengers we’ll cruise down the harbour, waving at passing holidaymakers and admiring colourful cottages as we go. We’ll pass the lifeboat station, Pavilion and Nothe Fort, before rounding the pier head and heading across Weymouth Bay.
Weymouth Bay Boat Trip
First of all we’ll steam along the seafront giving you plenty of opportunity to admire Weymouth beach from the sea. Enjoy views of the golden sand and Georgian architecture that lines the esplanade. In the distance you’ll see the White Horse on the hill at Osmington. You’ll also enjoy far reaching views towards the Jurassic Coast cliffs.
Once we get near Red Cliff and Bowleze cove we’ll loop round and head to Portland Harbour, where we’ll steam along the break water and pass through the entrance.
Historic Portland Harbour
Portland Harbour is one of the largest man-made harbours in the world and has played an important role in local history over the years. As we circumnavigate the harbour we’ll stop to look at chequered fort before passing anchored TV Tristram which is now used to train the Royal Marines. If you’re lucky there might be a cruise ship or RYA vessel anchored in the port.
Local Wildlife
Over the years, we’ve enjoyed some fantastic sunsets in the port. We’ve also been lucky enough to spot a wide range of wildlife in the local area, including seals, dolphins and rare birds. Of course, the sea is not a zoo and wildlife is not guaranteed.
This trip is well suited to families and couples. It’s the perfect length of time for children.
"Best boat trip ever... highly recommend"
" Luke and Jay - Jaye are fantastic they are very passionate about what they do and really want you to have a good experience and go out of there way to make sure you have the best time. I had my 2 dogs with me and they both absolutely love dogs... which for me was fantastic..".
Jan - Tripadvisor
FAQs
Below you will find a list of frequently asked questions about our Weymouth Bay & Portland Harbour boat trips aboard Snapper and Jurassic. If you have any further questions ahead of your trip please get in touch.
Will the trip still go ahead in the rain?
Yes, we still operate our trips in the rain. We only cancel if the winds get too high.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, you are more than welcome to bring your dog on our sightseeing trips. Please note we also run fishing trips so there may be remnants of hooks and bait on board. Also, it can be noisy and it does get hot in the summer.
Is there a commentary/guided tour?
There is not a formal commentary or PA system on board. This is a relaxed sightseeing trip with passengers invited to relax and take in the scenery. That being said, the skipper and crew will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
Can I book the whole boat?
Yes, you can book the whole boat for private charter. Simply book all 12 spaces available on our booking site. If there are less than 12 spaces available, it means another family is already booked on the trip.
Is there a toilet on board?
Yes, there is a toilet on board.
What should I wear?
Please dress appropriately for the weather. It can get chilly at sea even in the summer. We recommend wearing a hat and sun cream.
Is the trip cheaper for children?
Unfortunately, we do not offer cheaper tickets for children – tickets are based on a per person price. All passengers including children must have a valid ticket including babies.
Can I bring food and drink?
Yes, you are more than welcome to bring your own food and drink to enjoy during the trip.
What is your cancellation policy?
If Luke, the Owner/Skipper of Snapper Charters deems the weather unsuitable for a Durdle Door, Wildlife & Ship Boat Trip or the minimum passenger number has not been met the trip will be cancelled with as much prior notice as possible. You will usually be contacted the evening before when we have access to the latest weather report. You will be contacted on the phone number/email address provided at the time of booking to try and arrange alternate dates. If we are unable to agree upon a mutually suitable date and transfer your booking, you will receive a cancellation email (please keep an eye on your junk mail folder) and full refund of any money paid. If you (the customer) would like to cancel a Durdle Door, Wildlife & Ship Boat Trip a full refund will be given up until 72 hours prior to the trip commencing. To cancel please click the 'view booking' button in your confirmation email and follow the instructions. It is also possible to transfer your booking to another date up until 72 hours before your trip. No refund will be given for cancellations that occur less than 72 hours before your trip.
Where do we meet you for the trip
Advance booking is essential. Meet us on the pontoon beneath the e-bike cafe. Arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. We kindly ask you to wait on the harbour wall until we've finished cleaning the boat/unloading passengers, then walk down the ramp towards the left hand side of the boat. Please leave plenty of time for parking as it can get busy, especially in the summer. We cannot wait for late passengers and NO refund will be given if you miss your trip. If you cannot see the boat when you arrive it is likely that we are returning from another trip. Please wait for us to arrive. Address: Custom House Quay Weymouth Dorset DT4 8BG Owner/skipper Luke: 07833492948
What happens if we're running late?
Please make every effort to arrive 15 minutes early and ensure you are in the right place and ready to go. We run all of our trips back to back, so it's essential that we leave on time. If you arrive more than 5 minutes late, we are afraid the boat will depart without you and NO refund will be given. We do not want to cut the trip short for the people who have made it there on time. If we're not there when you arrive, we will be on our way back from our previous trip. Please wait for us to return.
About the Snapper Charters Fleet
Snapper is a spacious power catamaran with outdoor seating. It is wide and stable making for a comfortable ride. You are more than welcome to get up and walk around during your trip.
We specialise in small group boat trips so there will be a maximum of 12 passengers on board plus crew. We are family friendly, though please note children must be accompanied by an adult. There is a toilet and board.
Breakwater Fort photo credit: Nicholas Mutton