Coastal Guide issue 2026

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TheCoastalGuide

FREE guide to sailing & other activities on the East Coast & its rivers

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tĞ ůŽŽŬ ĨŽƌǁĂƌĚ ƚŽ ǁĞůĐŽŵŝŶŐ LJŽƵ Richard & the Team

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The Coastal Guide 2026 ©East Coast Creative.

All information correct at time of going to press; please check individual websites for updates.

Email us at: mail@thecoastalguide.co.uk

ELCOME to The Coastal Guide! This annual publication is very W much based on our personal experience of the East Coast – as yacht owners, and as part of a wider family of watersports enthusiasts.

With a year-long shelf-life, The Coastal Guide doesn’t profess to offer up-to-the-minute navigational information or headline news; instead, we simply showcase all that’s best about boating in Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and North Kent. As each year’s main sailing season gets under way, we load copies of The Coastal Guide straight from the printer’s lorry into our own vehicles, then drive along the coastline and rivers from The Wash to the Medway, delivering every issue direct to the clubs, marinas, chandleries and other businesses that make up our loyal band of distributors. It’s a road-trip that spreads across four or five days – and would last a lot longer if we accepted every drink offered en route! But, importantly, it means we meet readers face-to-face, see first-hand what’s happening around the region, and end our journey excited for the months ahead.

One of the big take-homes for us is that, while we’re blessed to have a number of famous-name marinas and yacht clubs in our region, we also have a wealth of smaller sailing clubs and council-run facilities that thrive here. This edition of The Coastal Guide shines the spotlight on some of those that have grabbed our attention while on the water (and in the car!) over the past year. We’ll watch out for more over the coming months… and in the meantime we hope that our round-up of activities, events, locations and clubs will help you make the most of the East Coast in 2026!

www.thecoastalguide.co.uk

Tim & Gill TheCoastalGuide 2026 3

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Inside this issue...

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31

50

42

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77 06 Essex’s enchanting waterway 13 Events 26 Discover Orford 31 Brightlingsea history tours 34 Wonderful Wells 39 Blackwater Sailing Club 42 Picture-perfect Pin Mill 47 Waldringfield Sailing Club 50 Ocean images at Chatham 51 Hoo Ness Yacht Club

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57 53 Shotley Sailing Club 57 Bradwell’s summer sailing school 58 Southwold Sailing Club 61 Eyott Sailing Club 63 Creeksea Sailing Club 67 Directory: Marinas & Moorings 73 Snettisham Beach Sailing Club 74 Benfleet Yacht Club 76 Wivenhoe Sailing Club 77 Directory: Coastal Clubs TheCoastalGuide 2026 5

An enchanting

Tucked behind seaside town Walton-on-the-Naze, one of the East Coast’s best-kept secrets offers a truly engaging sailing experience

T

he Walton Backwaters – also known as the Hamford Water National Nature Reserve – remain remarkably unchanged from when Arthur Ransome immortalised them in his 1939 novel Secret Water. A wildlife-rich labyrinth of tidal creeks, mudflats and saltmarshes, they offer a sail-and-stay experience where adventure and tranquillity combine.

Tidal awareness is key to cruising this watery wilderness, which pulses with the rhythm of the tides. Channels that offer comfortable depth at high water transform into threatening expanses of mud at low tide, creating a constantly evolving seascape and demanding respect and careful navigation. For those who time it right, the reward is a quiet anchorage where the only sounds are birdsong and the gentle lap of water against the hull.

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waterscape

Little Terns nest on the shingle spits during summer, while in winter the mudflats host thousands of Dark-bellied Brent Geese alongside waders and wildfowl.

The area supports rare coastal plant communities, and a healthy population of harbour and grey seals haul out on the mudbanks, their coats stained russet by the iron oxide-rich sediment. At sunset, the marshes glow gold and the creeks become ribbons of light threading through a darkening landscape.

The entrance to the Backwaters from the sea is marked by a succession of buoys through Pye Sands, the channel requiring careful attention and precision at the helm. The intimate relationship with the landscape that’s required creates an engaging sailing experience, where every passage completed feels truly earned, »

TheCoastalGuide 2026 7

and expertise develops through experience. At the heart of the Hamford Water National Nature Reserve, Horsey Island has been intermittently inhabited since the 12th century. Privately owned, the island is linked to the mainland by a causeway across a stretch of water known as the Wade – walkable with care at low tide from the nearest village, Kirby-le-Soken. Drop anchor in the main body of water to the island’s north and explore further by tender, or venture into the smaller creeks only if your vessel has a shallow draft – grounding on the soft mud happens, but with a rising tide and patience, boats refloat without drama.

Ransome’s choice of the Walton Backwaters

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for Secret Water was inspired.

The book captures perfectly the sense of exploration and discovery that defines sailing here, where children armed with charts and determination could map their own secret waterways. The area remains much as Ransome described it all those years ago – remote and mysterious, it still inspires a sense of adventure in all ages. The Old Gaffers Association’s annual Swallows and Amazons event – taking place on 26-28 June this year – celebrates this heritage. Starting as a race around Horsey Island for smaller boats at the Shotley Classic Boat Festival in 1989, it has evolved into a weekend-long celebration of small gaff-rigged craft, with races, treasure hunts, sealwatching trips, and explorations into the furthest, shallowest corners of the Backwaters. Prizes are given to all and the journey matters more than the winning – see www.eastcoastgaffers.org.uk.

Marinas and moorings Moored boats guide sailors along The Twizzle Creek, which is effectively a continuation of the

Walton Channel southward from Stone Point towards Titchmarsh Marina( left), Walton Boatyard (above right) and the Walton and Frinton Yacht Club (right). In favourable conditions Stone Point makes for a fun short stop, with landing possible for a sandy stroll, paddle with the dog or even a quick picnic.

Once past here, two distinct destinations each offer their own character and facilities, serving different roles in the boating community while sharing a common commitment to maintaining and promoting this unique sailing ground.

Created in 1966 by John Titchmarsh, independently owned Titchmarsh Marina (www. titchmarshmarina.co.uk) remains in family hands today, offering over 420 berths in a sheltered location where the emphasis falls on tranquillity and high standards. The marina provides comprehensive facilities with modern floating pontoons, an on-site chandlery and an extensive hard-standing, trailer park and slipway. An on-site restaurant (www.harbourlightswalton.co.uk) is popular with locals as well as the nautical crowd, there’s a busy brokerage (www.davidmorrisboats. co.uk), and staff at the marina earn consistent praise for their helpfulness and local knowledge.

The Walton and Frinton Yacht Club (www. wfyc.co.uk) has championed the Backwaters since 1908, when it began as Walton Sailing Club. The club’s first acts included buoying the channels and promoting the area as a yachting venue to publishers of pilot books and magazines. In 1920, the club moved to its current location in a converted windmill site overlooking the Backwaters, erecting purpose-built facilities that have evolved over the decades into today’s comprehensive clubhouse and RYA Training Centre.

The club is just a short walk from Walton High Street if you’re a cruiser needing somewhere to stock up on supplies. Visiting sailors will always find a warm welcome here, though the yacht club’s small wet basin – accessible to yachts of up to 2m draft – can only be accessed at high water via a tidal gate.

Walton Yacht Basin is managed by Hipkin & Loxley Ltd, and is home to two boatyards: Frank Halls & Son (www.frankhalls.com) and Walton Boatyard (formerly Bedwell & Co). Contact www. waltonyachtbasin.co.uk for information on mooring availability and fees. »

TheCoastalGuide 2026 9

Seal sightings for all The creeks and rivers of the East Coast are home to a thriving population of harbour – also known as common – and grey seals. They’re a familiar sight to cruising sailors who often see these cheeky-looking carnivores surface during a swim, or basking on the mudflats close to favourite anchorages, but you don’t have to own a boat to get safely up-close.

Where Essex meets Suffolk, Seal Watching Harwich (www.sealwatching.co.uk) takes passengers from Ha’penny Pier into the Walton Backwaters and the Hamford Water Nature Reserve, while on the River Crouch, Seal Trips Essex operates its boat Celtic Prince from the quayside at Burnham-on-Crouch (www. sealtripsessex.co.uk). Charter Discovery operates from here as well as from Essex Marina, offering trips that explore the remote and deserted creeks and inlets of the Crouch and Roach (www.charterdiscovery.co.uk).

In Kent, the Medway and the Swale – the

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stretch of water separating the Isle of Sheppey from the mainland – are a haven for wildlife.

Dentex Charters offers scheduled trips from Queenborough’s all-tides landing stage into both rivers (www.dentexcharters.com) and Whitstable Boat Trips also operates trips from the town’s harbour into the Swale – see www.whitstableboattrips.co.uk.

In Suffolk, Southwold’s Coastal Voyager (www.coastalvoyager.co.uk) operates a threehour trip to popular seal-watching spot the Scroby Sands wind farm, while Jet Adventures (www.jetadventures.co.uk) visits the same location from Lowestoft Harbour.

In North Norfolk, trips to the National Trust’s Blakeney Point from Blakeney Harbour are operated by a number of local companies, including Beans Boats (www.beansboattrips. co.uk), while Searles Sea Tours (www.seatours. co.uk) has two amphibious vessels, the ‘Wash Monsters’, which depart from Hunstanton for The Wash.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 11

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Just add water!

Events to take part in, see, and support in 2026...

C

alling all competitors, challenge-seekers and cheerleaders: there’s a calendar full of reasons to get on, in, or near the water this year. Some are fiercely contested, some

offer fun for all the family, and others set out to raise funds for deserving local causes... take a look at our round-up and you’re sure to find something that ‘floats your boat’! »

TheCoastalGuide 2026 13

Three Rivers Race

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he Three Rivers Race, renowned as Europe’s toughest inland sailing challenge, is set to take place from 30-31 May. Hosted by Horning Sailing Club, this annual event draws sailors from across the nation to the picturesque Norfolk Broads. The demanding 50-mile course navigates the rivers Bure, Ant and Thurne, requiring participants to pass under the bridges at Potter Heigham and Acle, where lowering masts tests both skill and strategy.

Starting and finishing at Horning Sailing Club, competitors have up to 24 hours to complete the course, often sailing through the night. For those wishing to witness the race, the bridge crossings offer spectacular viewing opportunities. www.3rr.uk

Sailing Barge Matches

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rom the thousands of Thames sailing barges that once worked the rivers and estuaries of the East Coast, only a small number remain in active commission, with charter parties and corporate clients replacing the cargoes they once carried. Barge matches held at various locations each summer showcase the region’s maritime heritage, giving spectators a fabulous chance to see competing vessels of more than 100 years old. To catch a glimpse of the action, make a date for the following fixtures...

Medway Barge Match 23 May – Gillingham Pier, Medway Southend Barge Match 30 May – Near Thorpe Bay Yacht Club, Essex Blackwater Barge Match 6 June – Osea Island, Essex Pin Mill Sailing Club Barge Match 11 July – River Orwell near Ipswich, Suffolk Thames Sailing Barge Match 18 July – Lower River Thames, starting Gravesend, Kent Swale Barge Match 25 July – River Swale, Faversham, Kent Colne Barge Match 5 September – River Colne, starting near Brightlingsea, Essex www.sailingbargeresearch.org.uk

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Classic Boat Festival Historic Queenborough Harbour is the setting for a celebration of classic craft on 5-6 September. The event gives visitors an opportunity to climb aboard and learn the stories behind a number of vintage vessels – barges, tugs and yachts have all tied to Queenborough Harbour Trust’s all-tide pontoon for the festival in recent years, while the local RNLI branch uses the event as a fundraising opportunity.

Queenborough’s monthly harbour market will complement the festival, with stalls on the town quay showcasing local produce, goods and craft. www.queenborough-harbour.co.uk

Fambridge Boat Jumble Sales Weekend B

uy, sell, and trade all things nautical at Fambridge Yacht Haven’s Boat Jumble and Boat Sales Day on 13 June. With all proceeds going to support the work of the Cirdan Sailing Trust, this River Crouch event is the perfect spot to hunt for marine equipment, boat parts and a great deal. If you’re in the market for a new boat, displays from The Boat Shop will include Orkney, Yamarin, Wave-Runner Jet Skis, Zodiac, BIC and more. In the pre-owned sector, the display from Boatshed Essex will include a Nimbus 320 Couple, Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 403, Jeanneau Merry Fisher 925, Trader 41 Flybridge, Birchwood Commodore 31 and more. With a friendly atmosphere and plenty of treasures to uncover, it’s an event no sailor should miss. The on-site River Breeze Cafe and nearby Ferry Boat Inn are pleasant refuelling spots once you’re all shopped out – with gates opening at 9am there’s plenty of time to work up a thirst! To book a stall or find out more, see www.yachthavens.com/fambridgeboatjumble

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Mersea Week and Town Regatta M ​

ersea Week and the West Mersea Town Regatta are annual sailing events held on Mersea Island, Essex, offering a variety of races and community activities.​ Mersea Week 2026 takes place 9-14 August, and the Town Regatta is on 15 August, while the latter’s Cobmarsh Marathon & Dinghy and Mersea Fisherman’s Open Boat (MFOB) races take place on 1 August. Dating back to 1838, the regatta features Smack, IRC and Cruiser races across six different classes, plus swimming and other watersports events.

The day concludes with a grand firework display. ​Mersea Week and the Town Regatta are completely separate events, but together they provide excellent opportunities for sailors, watersports enthusiasts and spectators to engage with one another and get a taste of the vibrant atmosphere of Mersea Island. www.merseaweek.org www.mersearegatta.org.uk

Chrissie Westgate

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Nore Race

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he Nore Race, a celebrated sailing event organised

by Benfleet Yacht Club since the 1930s, is set to take place on 20 June. This annual race features both cruiser and dinghy classes navigating a 20-mile circuit of the Thames Estuary, starting and finishing at Southend Pier. The event attracts a diverse fleet, with many sailors viewing it as a rally rather than a competitive race – until the starting gun fires. Following the race, Benfleet Yacht Club will host a prizegiving ceremony on 26 June, featuring live music and a complimentary buffet. This post-race gathering offers an excellent opportunity for competitors, club members and sailing enthusiasts to celebrate and share their experiences. www.benfleetyachtclub.org

Medway Y C Keelboat Regatta M

edway Yacht Club is set to host its annual Keelboat Regatta from 6-7 June at its premises in Lower Upnor, Rochester, Kent.

This esteemed event offers a relaxed yet competitive atmosphere, featuring three classes of handicap racing for cruisers alongside one-design racing for Dragons, Sonatas, and Squibs. ​ Festivities commence on the Friday evening with a practice race, providing participants an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the course and conditions. Beyond the on-water excitement, the club arranges a vibrant social programme to enhance the regatta experience. The Galley Restaurant and Dragon Bar will be open throughout the event, serving a variety of snacks and meals sourced from local suppliers. www.medwayyachtclub.com

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Aldeburgh Fun Team Relay Triathlon

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he Aldeburgh Fun Team Relay Triathlon takes place on 6 September, starting at the Moot Hall in Aldeburgh. This unique event invites teams of three to participate in a relay format, with each member tackling one segment of the triathlon. The race comprises a 750 to 1,000m sea swim, a 22km bike ride through scenic routes including Aldeburgh, Thorpeness, and Aldringham, and concludes with a 5km off-road run. ​The event emphasises community and charity, with all profits distributed to various charitable causes. www.heritagecoastevents.org.uk

Harwich International Shanty Festival T

he Harwich International Shanty Festival returns 9-11 October, celebrating maritime music and heritage in the historic coastal town.

Established in 2006, this acclaimed event attracts performers from around the world, bringing traditional sea shanties to life in charming pubs, historic venues, and along the iconic Ha’penny Pier. Visitors can enjoy vibrant performances, interactive workshops, street theatre, pirate re-enactments and maritime crafts, making it ideal for families and music lovers alike. Accommodation fills fast, so early planning is recommended to fully experience this unique and lively coastal tradition. www.harwichshantyfestival.co.uk

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North West Norfolk Week

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fter celebrating its 75th anniversary last year, the 2026 North West Norfolk Week sailing event takes place from 8-15 August. This eight-day regatta brings together sailors across various classes, including National 12, Allcomers handicap (Fast and Slow Fleets), Supernova, and ILCA. Participants can anticipate competitive racing and camaraderie as they navigate the scenic Norfolk coastline. While specific venues were still to be confirmed at the time of going to press, the event will start and finish at Snettisham, with visits to clubs at Saddlebow (Ouse Amateur), Wells, Blakeney, Brancaster and Overy Staithe in between.

Exclusive camping is available for the duration of the week for all entries, in a single location and at minimal cost. Sailors can expect a real mix of conditions – open sea, tidal harbours, and inland water – all within the same week. www.norfolkweek.co.uk

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Pier to Pier Swim

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fter a successful ‘soft launch’ last year, the Pier to Pier Swim returns to Lowestoft’s South Beach this summer. Last year’s event was the first to take place since 2011, and saw 34 swimmers of all ages completing a 880m course from Claremont Pier to the South Pier close to Lowestoft Harbour.

With a license from East Suffolk Council and a permit from British Triathlon, the event was hosted by Peak Open Water Sports in partnership with Waveney Surf Lifesaving Club. The event attracted participants from different counties who were evenly split into smaller ‘waves’, with staggered group starts from the beach; each swimmer received a hat, medal and the opportunity to battle it out for Pier to Pier Trophies which were last awarded in 2011.

This new addition to the East Coast’s sea swimming calendar date takes place this year on 23 August from 12 noon onwards. www.peakopenwatersports.com

Medway Regatta

T​

he Medway Regatta, hosted by Wilsonian Sailing Club, is set for 27-28 June. This event offers four races, with two each day and a lunch break in between; if all four races are completed, the best three results will count. Competitors navigate courses marked by fixed navigational and inflatable markers stretching from the club to the river estuary.​The event promises a vibrant atmosphere, with food and drink available throughout, and ample support from Wilsonian Sailing Club members. On-site camping is available for those travelling to this flagship dinghy regatta, which dates back nearly 40 years. Earlier in the season, on 2 May Wilsonian Sailing Club hosts a ‘Discover Sailing’ open day, offering RIB rides, dinghy sessions, membership discounts and advice from experts on and off the water. www.wilsoniansc.org.uk www.medwayregatta.co.uk

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Round Canvey Race

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enfleet Yacht Club’s Coastal Rowers are an active group of enthusiasts. The club has a number of fixed seat and sliding seat coastal rowing craft for club members to use, and they compete in events all round the East Coast. Keeping the action close to home, Benfleet Yacht Club organises the annual Round Canvey Race, a rowing, row/sail and paddle event that covers a 14.4 mile circuit of Canvey Island. This annual open event was established in 2011 and an eclectic mix of vessels have completed to date, including fixedseat and sliding-seat rowing boats, surf-skis, outrigger canoes and sailing dinghies. The current record is 1hr 25 mins by a surf-ski. This year’s Round Canvey Race is due to take place on 4 July and the course includes tidal barrages or bridges to go under - so masts must come down and all craft must be suitable for deep water and potentially rough conditions. Free overnight camping is available at Benfleet Yacht Club which is on the north shore of Canvey Island. A post-race BBQ and bar add to the onshore fun. www.benfleetyachtclub.org

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Suffolk Yacht Harbour Classic Regatta T

he Suffolk Yacht Harbour Classic Regatta is set to take place from 26-28 June on the River Orwell. Established in 2002, this annual event has become the East Coast’s premier racing weekend for classic sail and motor yachts. ​ Hosted by Haven Ports Yacht Club, the regatta welcomes both avid racers and leisurely sailors and features fast, slow, and Stella classes, along with a cruising class for classic motor yachts. Eligible vessels are those of pre1970 design and traditional construction, including modern classics with wooden or steel hulls. ​The weekend promises exhilarating on-the-water competition complemented by vibrant social events ashore, including a regatta party and live music. www.syhclassicregatta.co.uk

Medway Marathon T​

he Medway Marathon is a distinguished endurance sailing race that has challenged sailors for over half a century. Scheduled for 6 September, this long-distance handicap race is open to all classes of monohull dinghies and day keelboats with a 2025 RYA Portsmouth Yardstick (PY) number.

Hosted by the Medway Yacht Club in Lower Upnor, Rochester, the marathon spans approximately 26 miles along the tidal River Medway, stretching from Upnor in the west to Queenborough Spit in the east.

Participants navigate sweeping estuary reaches and creeks, encountering varying tidal conditions that demand strategic decision-making and adept boat handling. The course’s design ensures that no particular boat class holds a significant advantage. www.medwayyachtclub.com

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IOSSC Round the Island Race

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oin the Isle of Sheppey Sailing Club for its 68th Round the Island Race on 12-13 September. This iconic 40-mile event – Europe’s longest annual race for dinghies, catamarans, and sailboards – tests participants’ sailing skills around the scenic Isle of Sheppey. Competitors face an exciting mix of sea, river and estuary conditions, with a unique challenge at Kingsferry Bridge, requiring larger boats to be heeled and walked under the span. The race starts and finishes at the IOS Sailing Club in Sheerness, with staggered start times based on vessel class. Complete the course to earn an exclusive circumnavigation certificate signed by the Commodore and compete for class trophies and prizes. www.iossc.org.uk

First Light Festival

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irst Light Festival returns to Lowestoft’s South Beach on 20-21 June, celebrating the UK’s earliest sunrise with a vibrant, 24-hour programme of arts, music and culture. As the UK’s only free, overnight beachfront festival, it offers a unique coastal experience filled with creativity and community spirit. Activities span dance, theatre, comedy, and wellbeing sessions, with highlights for 2026 including performances by folk singer, songwriter and multiinstrumentalist Seth Lakeman, and comedian and Fast Show writer Simon Day. Working with Britten Pears Arts on a brand-new co-commission for the summer solstice, Turkishborn singer-songwriter, composer and interdisciplinary artist Tendertwin will create a new piece marking the 50th anniversary year of Benjamin Britten’s death, connecting his birthplace and final home. www.firstlightlowestoft.com

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Brightlingsea Regatta

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et against the picturesque backdrop of this Essex harbour town, the annual Brightlingsea Regatta returns on 18 July. Steeped in maritime tradition, the event offers activities for all ages. Sailing enthusiasts can look forward to exhilarating yacht and dinghy races, showcasing both local and visiting talents. For those eager to dive into watersports, ‘come and try’ sessions in sailing, paddleboarding, gig rowing, and powerboating provide hands-on experiences.

Beyond the water, the regatta grounds transform into a lively hub featuring local food stalls, artisan crafts, and live music performances, ensuring there’s something for everyone. As the sun sets, the skies will light up with a spectacular fireworks display, a highlight that brings the community together in celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or simply seeking a vibrant summer event, the Brightlingsea Regatta makes a memorable day by the coast. www.brightlingsearegatta.com

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29.8.2026 to 5.09.2026

8 Days. One Incredible Regatta

Whether you're racing hard on the water or soaking up the atmosphere ashore, Burnham Week delivers the perfect blend of sport and social.

IRC • Cruisers • Multihulls • Keelboats Dinghies • Kayaks • Gigs...

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Race. Relax. Celebrate.

O C

UR

A

• Full Week Series • Bank Holiday Regatta • Final Saturday

W MME EE

there’s a start line waiting for you.

R

B

I A L welcoming Enjoy a fabulous social programme hosted by Burnham’s OG R P yacht clubs, pubs, and restaurants — great food, live entertainment, prizegivings, and plenty of stories from the day’s racing.

Meet Jack Sparrow

Sw a sh b u c

NHAM

To enter or for more information contact:

kling! info@burnhamweek.com or call

Fireworks on the final Saturday 9pm

03300 969 819 www.burnhamweek.com

TheCoastalGuide 2026 25

Discover Orford Well-heeled and with something to satisfy every appetite, this timeless village makes a fabulous sailing destination

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ranquil and a true historical gem, Orford has changed little over the years. Chocolate-box pretty and complete with welcoming pubs and a picturesque quay, it’s an ideal place in which to unwind beneath Suffolk’s famously big skies.

Located on the north bank of the River Ore, surrounded by farmland and acres of Forestry Commission property, Orford provides plenty of opportunities for walkers, history buffs and wildlife-watchers to pursue their passions. Indulgence of a different kind comes in the village’s reputation for fine living – while once most famous for its local oysters and

26 TheCoastalGuide 2026

smokehouses, today a range of upmarket shops sell a wide range of local produce, while characterful pubs, restaurants and tearooms offer endless refuelling options.

Orford has a fascinating history. Nearby, the shingle spit known as the Ness provides some insight into activities carried out during the Cold War, including nuclear detonator test sites. The earliest history of Orford Ness, and the construction of the river walls – both significant in the development of a settlement here – is uncertain, though it is thought that the saltmarsh which built up behind the shingle spit was used

for grazing, and at one time in the medieval period, walls were built around the marshes to eventually exclude the tidal river water.

But what is clear is that Orford’s fortunes changed dramatically when King Henry II chose it as the site for a new castle. Work began in 1165 and was completed in 1173, and it’s thought that St. Bartholomew’s Church, the burial place of composer Benjamin Britten, was probably built at about the same time – occupying a commanding site in the centre of the village it is, like the castle, a landmark that has guided sailors, and perhaps smugglers, for centuries.

Orford Quay dates from the time when the castle was built, and keeping it in repair was a constant preoccupation and expense for villagers until it was let on a repairing lease in 1743 and sold in 1813 to the Marquis of Hertford. It passed to the MOD when Orford Ness was used by the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment, before being handed back into the ownership of the New Orford Town Trust relatively recently.

Today, the quay is a departure point for leisure »

TheCoastalGuide 2026 27

boat trips, National Trust trips to Orford Ness, and RSPB trips to Havergate Island. Combining all the boating, culinary and wildlife appeal of Orford in one outing, the ex-Admiralty motor fishing vessel Lady Florence offers breakfast, lunch, supper, and dinner cruises for just 12 guests, creating an intimate and exclusive atmosphere as she glides along the Ore and Alde from Orford Quay.

See www.rivercruiserestaurants.co.uk.

Alongside its commercial use, Orford Quay is available for short-stay docking, while licensed moorings are under the management of the New Orford Town Trust (www.orfordparishandtrust. onesuffolk.net). Some visitor buoys are maintained to the starboard side of the channel before the quay, but sailors are advised to check availability before arrival – the Harbourmaster operates on VHF Ch8 and Ch80, and can be contacted on 01394 459950.

Like all North Suffolk rivers, the entrance to the Ore has gained a certain notoriety among

28 TheCoastalGuide 2026

sailors due to its shifting shingle bar and fast tidal flow – don’t attempt it in bad weather or on the ebb, and always check the latest charts. Shingle Street sits at the river’s entrance, its pretty terrace of coastguard cottages a dominant landmark while, on the ground, a curious line of white whelk shells are welldocumented by local photographers.

Once you’re safely into the river, flat marshes and water meadows are backed by farmland to port, while seaward the raised shingle of the Ness guides you along. Midway between Shingle Street and Orford, the river divides around Havergate Island – an RSPB reserve, the island is a no-go area for landing, though the area to its north is generally good for dropping the hook.

Alternatively, head for the peace and quiet of the Butley River, using your dinghy to explore its upper reaches.

Orford Sailing Club All-tide access to sheltered Heritage Coast waters

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itting on the shingle foreshore only metres from the village’s historic quay, Orford Sailing Club offers members effortless access to the Ore-Alde tidal estuary. From here it’s possible to sail up the Alde to Aldeburgh – five miles on the water, 12 miles by road – and, at high water, another five miles beyond to Snape Maltings, while downriver the Ore runs parallel to the coast for five miles, passing both sides of the RSPB’s Havergate Island and the entrance to the Butley River before joining the sea at Shingle Street.

Now 102 years old, the club (www.orfordsail. org.uk) makes full use of these unspoilt waters, continuing to thrive with a membership of around 500, a crowded dinghy park, more than 50 cruisers and keelboats regularly afloat, and a full programme of racing and social events.

On the water, junior and senior regattas, a sea race, ‘round the Island’ events and a frostbite series keep racing members busy from March to November, while in-company cruises see members’ yachts carrying the burgee further afield. Land-side, the purpose-built clubhouse includes a kitchen, changing rooms, showers and a race officers’ bridge, while the dinghy park fronts the river, its concrete ramp complemented by a pontoon which dries out at low water.

Locked storage for oars, outboard motors and

petrol is also available, along with supplementary storage for some yacht tenders in a covered – but liable to flood! – shed on the quay.

The setting may be rarified, but this sailing club is run by volunteers – a system that keeps everyone in touch and subscriptions low – and is super-friendly, family-oriented, and proud of its reputation for conducting business with the minimum of formality. An RYA-accredited training centre, it owns Toppers, RS Fevas, Hartley 12s and Wayfarers, and offers free taster sessions for local schoolchildren, plus other courses that take learners of all ages through the various RYA levels.

If you’re visiting by road, Orford Sailing Club is just a short walk from the Orford Quay Car Park, which is opposite The Jolly Sailor on Quay Street.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 29

Welcome to Brightlingsea Harbour, a small mixed leisure and commercial port in Brightlingsea Creek, close to the mouth of the Colne where it meets the Blackwater and Thames Estuaries. Brightlingsea Harbour is a Trust Port managed by Brightlingsea Harbour Commissioners, who also run Waterside Marina. Facilities include: Water Taxi • Fresh Water • Fuel • Sewage Pump Out • Laundry • Showers • Maintenance Posts • WiFi and Electric in the marina • Waste Disposal.

Ferry and Harbour Tours – explore the historic harbour and its surrounds on our family-friendly foot ferry and tour boats. Take a trip across the water to Mersea Island or Point Clear. Alternatively, book an exclusive charter and we’ll create the perfect private voyage for you, your family and friends. Dogs and bikes are welcome on board, so everyone can join in the fun!

For information on Brightlingsea Harbour, the foot ferry and harbour tours, pop into the Harbour Office, download the Brightlingsea Harbour App, see www.brightlingseaharbour.org or call 01206 302200, VHF Channel 68

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A trip back in time

A new tour charts the history of a charming Essex town

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rightlingsea Harbour has partnered with Brightlingsea Museum to offer a unique and immersive way to explore the rich heritage of this charming Essex town.

The Historic Land & Sea Tour will be guided by one of Brightlingsea Museum’s volunteers, all of whom have exceptional knowledge of the waterside and harbour.

On land, the tour delves into Brightlingsea’s Cinque Port connections and fascinating local and wartime history, before participants take to the water for a boat trip that covers shipbuilding, yachting and associated endeavours. Join in and you can expect to see some of the harbour’s more ‘famous’ vessels and notable visitors, while hearing about more recent history such as the miners’ strike, Brightlingsea Against Live Exports, and much more.

The tour combines insightful commentary with stunning views, allowing participants to discover

landmarks and stories that have shaped the area.

Whether by foot or aboard a scenic boat ride, the Historic Land & Sea Tour provides a captivating experience, with headsets provided so none of the commentary is missed.

The Historic Land & Sea Tour begins at Brightlingsea’s Harbour Office– for information see www.brightlingseaharbour.org.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 31

HKing ECEG Ad 140 x 94 (3/3/20).qxp_Layout 1 03/03/2020 17:36 Page 1

A family run traditional boatyard offering a reliable, honest and friendly service.

Full repair and fitting out service.

Laying up and winter storage for over 150 boats.

A wide range of swinging moorings available from half tide up to deep water.

Experienced staff on hand including marine engineering, shipwrights and a full rigging service.

Harry King

& Sons Ltd

Boat Yard Boat Builders Repairers

HARRY KING & SONS LTD Pin Mill, Ipswich, Suffolk IP9 1JN. T 01473 780258 M 07714 260568 or 07867 640650 E info@kingsboatyard.co.uk W www.kingsboatyard.co.uk

Welcomes you to one of the most attractive harbours on the East Coast

Full Marina Facilities

Temporary & Permanent Berthing Available Winter Storage Ashore or Afloat

www.titchmarshmarina.co.uk Harbour Office T: 01255 672 185 VHF Channel 80 info@titchmarshmarina.co.uk

32 TheCoastalGuide 2026

Stour Sailing Club Small, friendly, and ensuring there’s something for everyone…

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elebrating its 90th anniversary this year, Stour Sailing Club sits on the south bank of the river in Manningtree, within a former private residence that now features a first-floor bar and balcony with views across the water.

Small but super-friendly, the club has pontoon berths and 130 river moorings – the latter dry out, so most of the boats you’ll see on them have bilge keels, lifting keels, or no keels – while visitors’ vessels may be able to lie alongside the quay; contact the mooring master for details.

On the waterfront opposite the clubhouse, a short concrete slip leads to a gravel hard and an area with benches and the race starting hut.

Further along the quayside, a gated compound offers secure boat

storage during the sailing season for about 90 small boats, with a tender and launching trolleys available for members’ use.

Stour Sailing Club has an annual calendar of cruises and competitive races – including the annual Micro World Championships – at the centre of which is the Manningtree Regatta, scheduled for 1-2 August this year. But keen to promote everyone’s ‘quiet enjoyment of the river’, members are also involved in kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming and rowing – the club has two Harker’s Yard gigs as well as a Coastal Scull and a Claydon Skiff.

For more information see www. stoursailingclub.co.uk – the website includes a link to a ‘tidecam’ so you can check out the scenery!

TheCoastalGuide 2026 33

Wonderful Wells!

A Norfolk harbour with much to offer…

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n moderate conditions, Wells-next-the-Sea is a safe haven for those crossing The Wash. At other times, its shallow, shifting entrance and tidal nature can be challenging – and even too dangerous to contemplate – leaving this lovely North Norfolk location overlooked by many of the East Coast’s cruising community.

It’s wise to heed the warnings. But for those who passage-plan properly, follow all the available advice and are not ashamed to call for

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help if unsure how to proceed, the Port of Wells should be a ‘must-do’ destination.

Few know Wells better than Harbourmaster Robert Smith MBE. Born and raised here, he dedicated 27 years to the local lifeboat, and worked with his family of longshoremen and a local shipping company before joining the Wells Harbour Commissioners’ team. Awarded an MBE for Services to the Port and Community of Wells in the 2016/17 New Year’s Honours List,

the following year Robert published Crossing the Bar, a book described as ‘a hymn to the most beautiful coastline in the world’. He’s now part of a podcast series – launched in early 2026 – that gives an insight into his work; links are available on Spotify and YouTube under the title Tales of Wells Harbour.

HQ for the harbour team is the historic Old Lifeboat House on the quayside. Close by, the visitor pontoons have an access bridge, fresh

water and electric, plus use of a facilities barge containing showers, WCs and laundry equipment.

If you’re planning a visit, www.portofwells.co.uk delivers a wealth of important information, including a video that shows how to negotiate the channel safely.

Once you’re safely tied up, Wells is easy to explore on foot. A Beach Bank Walk connects the town to the beach – almost a mile apart – and offers wonderful views across the channel »

TheCoastalGuide 2026 35

and over the marshes. Vast and unspoilt, Wells beach is famous for its colourful huts, pinewoods and sand dunes – head a couple of miles or so along the sands and you’ll reach the Holkham Estate. Alternatively, head into town and you’ll find The Buttlands, a leafy green square overlooked by elegant Georgian houses and home to two fabulous eateries, The Crown (www.

crownhotelnorfolk.co.uk) and The Globe (www. theglobeatwells.co.uk). For those prefer to dine on-board, delicatessens, bakeries, and fish and chip shops line the quayside.

An annual Maritime Heritage Festival and Flotilla adds a nautical note to the town’s busy social calendar, bringing historic local working boats together on the water for a procession to the harbour mouth and back. On-shore maritimethemed entertainment, stalls, demonstrations and activities for children complete the two-day event, which this year is scheduled for 20-21 June.

Wells Sailing Club With panoramic views across the creeks and saltmarshes of North Norfolk, Wells Sailing Club is among the county’s friendliest. The atmosphere of the club reflects its beginnings – founded in 1929 by local enthusiasts using the saloon bar of

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the former Shipwrights pub, it now boasts a purpose-built clubhouse on Wells’ East Quay (right), with decking to the front further extending its social capacity.

While nearby land allows for waterside boat parking, the bungalow-style clubhouse blends in well with the neighbouring residential properties. But an extensive programme of events holds fast to its aim of actively promoting sailing and other on-the-water pursuits. Racing is enthusiastic – Wells Sailing Club is one of the hosts of the annual North West Norfolk Week – but the membership also includes canoeists, leisure and cruising sailors, safety boat handlers and those who join just to enjoy the lively social scene. Sailing fixtures this year run from early

April to October, and include a regatta over the August Bank Holiday weekend. On the social side, BBQs, a canoe safari and children’s parties add whole-family appeal.

Make contact via www.wellssailingclub.co.uk if you’d like to know more; junior memberships aim to encourage youngsters to get out on the water, and the club has a fleet of boats for use by competent members.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 37

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Blackwater Sailing Club Boasting its own lake and an enviable Heybridge Basin location, this club has much to keep its members busy

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ounded in 1899, Blackwater Sailing Club is a thriving, family-focused hub where cruiser and dinghy sailors, kayakers, windsurfers, paddleboarders and rowers are all welcome.

Situated on the tidal Blackwater, two miles downstream from Maldon, the club has a strong self-help ethos, with its clubhouse and facilities among the best in the county thanks to significant investment by members.

The clubhouse enjoys extensive views of the river, with changing rooms that can accommodate over 100 people and a galley where members can prepare

their own hot drinks and meals.

Year-round social events complement a busy calendar of cruises and races on the water, while the club’s sailing school is RYA-affiliated and benefits from a purpose-built classroom for dry-land instruction.

Launching onto the river is possible for around two hours either side of high water, enabling either a same-tide or all-day sail. But supplementing the activity on the Blackwater, a seven-acre freshwater club lake is available at any time, and members can book a club boat to try before investing in their own.

For more information see the website: www.blackwatersailingclub.org.uk.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 39

Best of all worlds

With continued investment in state-of-the-art facilities, Bridgemarsh Marina offers a friendly and affordable base for recreational boating

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ucked behind Bridgemarsh Island on Althorne Creek, this family-owned marina has been one of the best-kept secrets on the River Crouch.

Sitting within a valley that’s wildlife-rich and rises gently to offer far-reaching views of saltings, marshland and mudflats, it’s around three miles upstream of Burnham-on-Crouch.

Look carefully, and the remains of a brickworks hint at Bridgemarsh Island’s past. Rich in clay, the island once had a tramway that ran down to the water’s edge so that bricks produced there could be loaded onto Thames barges. After

40 TheCoastalGuide 2026

the island’s seawall was breached in the Great Flood of 1953, it was abandoned to wildlife and is now owned by the Wildlife Habitat Trust.

While the island is an evocative landmark on passage between Burnham and North Fambridge, the marina behind it is a must-see: well-connected, with a laid-back vibe and a team committed to offering a first-class service for berth holders and visitors, it’s a fine option for a full-time berth.

Family-run, Bridgemarsh Marina has benefited from a £1m-plus programme of updates that

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has included, over the past couple of years, the installation of brand new pontoons and a new toilet and shower block. In-keeping with all the expectations of vessel owners, security CCTV offers peace of mind, and there’s electric and water on both the pontoons and on the hard standing for those who choose to store ashore.

Refurbishment of the lifting area and crane pad – which can cater for boats of up to 9 tons – was among the projects scheduled for 2025.

Bringing a personal touch to it all is manager Mick Thurlow who, if not in the boatyard or on the pontoons, will likely be in the marina’s quirky reception/clubhouse. “Value for money and a sense of community are among the many things we offer,” he says, “and we’d love more people to experience them.”

Located conveniently close to Althorne Station – which provides connections across Essex and into London Liverpool Street – Bridgemarsh Marina has berths available now for recreational craft. For more information, see www. bridgemarshmarina.co.uk or call the marina office on 01621 740414.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 41

Picture-perfect Nestled in a sheltered Orwell bay, Pin Mill is one of Suffolk’s most-photographed locations

42 TheCoastalGuide 2026

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ncient finds in nearby fields hint at the earliest inhabitants of this tiny Suffolk hamlet, and it’s reasonable to suppose it would have attracted Saxon and Viking visitors as they prepared for raids upriver. The earliest building is one of the waterfront’s most-photographed: the Butt & Oyster public house – mentioned as the location for a mid-1400s Water Bailiffs’ court – served as a watering hole for sailors whose ships anchored in Butterman’s Bay as they offloaded their cargoes into smaller vessels for the onward journey to Ipswich.

Today, the inn attracts new generations

of sailors and sightseers, its rustic character including terracotta tiled floors, a large open fireplace and sought-after bay window seats with a wonderful view of passing ships and leisure craft. The approach by road is narrow and with no guarantee of a parking space once complete, while by water it requires a dinghy ride from a nearby buoy, anchorage or marina – Woolverstone Marina is walkable, but easily within reach so long as you’ve enough fuel in your tender’s outboard.

Centuries-old, Pin Mill Hard is the only public landing stage on the River Orwell. Keep a close »

TheCoastalGuide 2026 43

eye on the tides if you use it for a trip to the pub… the mud appears quickly and may leave you regretting that extra pint!

Thames barges were repaired from a workshop on the Hard for more than 40 years but when their usefulness declined, new reasons to keep them were required. Pin Mill’s watery ‘graveyard’ contains the haunting remains of some that didn’t make the cut, while others that were converted into houseboats sit on the shoreline close-by. Some continued sailing for recreational purposes – Pin Mill Sailing Club hosts an annual Barge Match that sees a number of beautifully restored barges beating along the river.

The love of leisure boating has long supported a number of local businesses. Established in 1850, family-run Harry King & Sons has been the cornerstone of exceptional boat building and repair for generations, blending traditional techniques with modern innovation. Well-known yachts built here include Arthur Ransome’s Bermudan Cutter Selina King, and the business remains a testament to enduring craftsmanship and reliability. Harry King & Sons (www. kingsboatyard.co.uk) also has more than 100 moorings in Pin Mill bay, catering for everything from day boats to yachts of up to 38ft. Choose between half-tide mud moorings and deepwater options – hire one for the season, or opt for the complete package of swinging mooring,

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winter laying-up and storage, and workshop maintenance. Visitor moorings are also available, with a £10 RNLI donation requested in lieu of a fee.

Between the boatyard and the Butt & Oyster, Pin Mill Common (top) was once a place where villagers had the right to “lay their dinghies and tan their sails”. Today it’s a lovely spot for a picnic, while the Grindle – the stream at its edge – is a worthy location for an annual Duck Race. Nearby, The Pin Mill Studio (www.thepinmillstudio.com) is the base for award-winning photographer Anthony Cullen, and a centre for courses in photography, painting and drawing alongside exhibitions of art. The Gallery Cafe overlooks the river, and Pin Mill resident Sara Hopkinson, an RYA-accredited sailor, instructor and examiner, runs courses here too – see www.pinmillcruising. co.uk for details.

Above the bay, a walk through National Trust woodland and heathland reveals far-reaching views of the River Orwell. A two-mile circular

route starting from Pin Mill’s public car park crosses the Cliff Plantation before returning along the foreshore – at low tide – in front of the pub.

A club for all Occupying a covetable site at the water’s edge – within walking of Woolverstone Marina and the Royal Harwich Yacht Club – characterful Pin Mill Sailing Club (above) celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2025.

With around 350 members, the sailing calendar here includes an open regatta and the

annual PMSC Barge Match, while some crews also compete in the Haven Combined Clubs Series against other local clubs. This year, a planned cruise in company will see Pin Mill boats visiting Goes in the Netherlands, reviving a relationship that started more than 40 years ago.

Pin Mill Sailing Club has two kayaks free for members to use, and is currently canvassing interest in the acquisition of a Harker’s Yard rowing gig for racing and leisure use.

For more information on this welcoming club, see www.pmsc.org.uk.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 45

Deben Café Bar on HMS Vale

Licensed café bar on the aft deck of an old war ship floating in the

River Deben alongside Melton Boatyard near Woodbridge.

Café: Barista Coffee,

Cold Drinks, Ice Creams, Bar Snacks, Good Food, Meaty, Veggie, Vegan

Dog friendly

Bar: Draught &

Bottled Beers, Ciders, Fizz, Wines & Spirits, 18+yrs Hot Drinks

Riverside Beer Garden: Stunning

River Views, Peaceful Setting, Good Vibes

One mile river wall walk from the Tide Mill. Friendly welcome. Trains stop Woodbridge & Melton. Parking in Melton Street. Walking/cycling destination; no parking on the Boatyard.

01394 388643 | www.debencafe.co.uk | on HMS Vale IP12 1PE

40 Tonne Dock Lane, Travel Hoist Cranage Seasonal Lifts 30 Berth Marina Storage Ashore Easy Access for Road Transport or Surveys Expert Marine Advice

DebenCafe Bar

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MELTON BOATYARD LTD

Marine Engineering Plumbing Blasting Electrical Carpentry Steel, GRP & Stainless Steel Repairs Welding & Fabrication Wide Beam & Canal Barges

Engineering

Large Undercover Workshops

Grit Blasting

Painting & Varnishing

Epoxy Systems

Topside Resprays

Osmosis Treatment

All Paint Systems

With all the new ways of communication available these days, we still prefer you to phone 01394 386327 to discuss your needs.

Or better still, come onto the boatyard in person. It’s much easier that way.

46 TheCoastalGuide 2026

How to Contact us:

Phone: 01394 386327 Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1PE

www.meltonboatyard.co.uk info@meltonboatyard.co.uk

»

Waldringfield Sailing Club Fleet-racing and family engagement are all part of the appeal at this busy Suffolk club

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egotiating the River Deben as it winds past Waldringfield requires attention – the channel is lined by moorings. But sail past this pretty village and your eyes are sure to wander to the busy shoreline, where a shingle beach runs between the Maybush Inn and the attractive clubhouse of Waldringfield Sailing Club.

Now 105 years old, the club operates a busy fleet-racing programme but stresses that its sailing amounts to much more – notably including dinghy cruising and yachting – while aiming to encourage lifelong and, as far as possible, whole-family engagement. Junior and adult social sessions offer non-members the chance to test the waters, and an annual regatta combines the usual mix of class and handicap racing with shore events that have been a club tradition for many years.

Aside from its dinghy fleets, Waldringfield Sailing Club has a yacht class that fills its season with a mix of cruises and competition. Past events have seen members sail to London, the rivers

Ore, Blackwater and Orwell, as well as into the Walton Backwaters and across the sea to France and Holland. Visiting yachtsmen are warmly welcomed at Waldringfield too – available moorings are identified by an orange dinghy marked ‘visitor’ and the Harbourmaster will offer the use of other unoccupied moorings if suitable – make contact via VHF Ch80.

Options for family, joint and junior memberships are complemented by a ‘young person’ category for those aged 21 to 25, plus a taster ‘pathway’ that offers the first two years of membership for one adult and one junior at a very fair price – only £79 in 2026. If you’d like to know more, see www. waldringfieldsc. com.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 47

W H AT D O YO U W A N T F R O M YO U R M A R I N A ?

Not just a berth – a launch point for your next adventure.

Whether you’re stopping for the night or staying a little longer, MDL’s East Coast marinas offer a warm welcome, modern facilities and expert support whenever you need it.

Choose from Woolverstone Marina or Chatham Maritime Marina, ideal for exploring the River Orwell, the Medway and beyond.

Drop in, recharge and head back out.

Explore MDL’s East Coast marinas at mdlmarinas.co.uk/explore

YOUR JOURNE Y STARTS HERE

48 TheCoastalGuide 2026

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

A vibrant marina on the River Medway, Chatham Maritime offers modern berthing alongside shops, restaurants and local attractions.

Two distinct marinas ... both along one incredible stretch of coastline

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oolverstone Marina & Lodge Park and Chatham Maritime Marina each offer something a little different, but both deliver the same high standards you would expect from MDL Marinas.

Set along the River Orwell, Woolverstone (right) is all about slowing things down. It’s a peaceful countryside setting, perfect for relaxed cruising and time outdoors.

With the lodge park on site, it’s also a great option for a waterside escape, whether you’re visiting as a couple, with family or bringing the dog along too.

Chatham Maritime Marina (above) has a more lively feel. Located on the River Medway, it offers modern berthing with shops, restaurants and local attractions all within easy reach, making it a really convenient base.

Both marinas give you access to some of the best cruising on the East Coast, from quiet rivers and estuaries to longer trips along the coastline.

Whichever you choose, you will find friendly on-site teams, quality facilities and locations that make it easy to get out on the water.

Find out more at www.mdlmarinas.co.uk

Luxury lodges set within Woolverstone’s parkland accommodate up to eight guests and pets.

Book your stay at www.mdlholidays.co.uk TheCoastalGuide 2026 49

Historic Dockyard hosts ‘Ocean Photographer of the Year’ exhibition

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he prestigious Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition makes its UK debut at the Historic Dockyard Chatham this year. Open from March to the end of August, the acclaimed arrival showcases award-winning marine photography that captures the beauty, fragility, and power of our oceans.

Celebrating the photographers who give the seas a voice, the exhibition is the latest artistic offering in a five-year run of must-see cultural events at the Historic Dockyard (www. thedockyard.co.uk), which is just a short walk from MDL’s Chatham Maritime Marina.

Culture on offer at The Historic Dockyard Chatham isn’t confined to its gallery spaces – step outside the exhibition halls and you are in one of the UK’s most sought-after film sets with TV and blockbuster movie credits.

Admission to the Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition is included with standard entry

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to The Historic Dockyard Chatham, which also features three historic ships, interactive museum galleries and a packed events programme.

Presented by Oceanographic Magazine and Blancpain, the Ocean Photographer of the Year competition exists to shine a light on both the wonder and vulnerability of the ocean, celebrating the photographers who give the seas a voice. In the Ocean Adventure category, Romain Barats captures a diver in Dominica surrounded by a pod of sperm whales (top left). Winner of the Human Connection category, photographer Craig Parry was moved by the compassion shown by a 15-hour attempt to rescue a stranded whale in Australia (below left). Also in the Human Connection category, Kaushiik Subramaniam (below right) captures crew and creatures in a close encounter. Overall winner Yury Ivanov photographed two Cyproideidae amphipods resting on coral (top right).

Kaushiik Subramaniam

Yury Ivanov

Romain Barats Craig Parry

Chatham debuts ocean imagery

Hoo Ness Yacht Club Competitive racing and in-company cruising from the north shore of the Medway

L

ocated on the north shore of the River Medway with views towards St Mary’s Island, Hoo Ness Yacht Club provides access to excellent sheltered sailing waters, the Thames Estuary and beyond.

A burgee depicting a Thames sailing barge hints at the club’s origins and early history – it can be traced back to the late 1940s, with the Hoo Ness Yacht Club name adopted two decades later after the club bought a building and the land on which it stands today. As club membership expanded from dinghy sailors to keel boat owners, moorings were laid in the river and jetties, slipways and scrubbing docks were constructed to provide the extensive range of yachting facilities which are now available to members.

Today, membership is in excess of 170 boats, with a sailing programme that includes competitive racing plus in-company cruises to locations such as St Katharine Docks,

Brightlingsea and Ramsgate. In return, a warm welcome is assured for visiting clubs and sailors whose craft can be accommodated quayside, on the club’s two scrubbing docks – all of which dry out – or on a spare deep water mooring.

Prospective members are always welcome – the website (www.hooness.org.uk) offers information on facilities and fees, and personal visits are encouraged. Arriving by road requires a sailor’s ‘hold fast’ attitude: make your way through the village of Hoo, head to the edge of an industrial estate and into Hoo Marina Park, where you’ll then drive – slowly because of the speed bumps!) – through a private residential area before reaching your destination.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 51

Enjoy an unforgettable dining experience Situated at the heart of Woolverstone marina, with an unmatched river view and vibe, we offer a professionally prepared, seasonal menu featuring the finest local ingredients

MoniMar’s setting is perfect for everything from a cosy dinner for two to a big-group gathering of family and friends. Pop in for a tasty choice of cakes, ice-creams and drinks from our well-stocked bar, which serves wines, beers and cocktails, or get in touch if you’d like to know about the options for private hire or corporate events. Ensuring a warm welcome at any time of year, we offer Sunday roasts in winter, along with a dog-friendly patio that’s heated in the cooler months.

Free mooring and free car parking is available for restaurant customers – if you’d like to stay longer, visitor berths and holiday lodges can be booked through the marina.

Sign-up to our email list for access to exclusive subscriber deals and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for all the latest news

info@moninmar.co.uk 01473 879471 www.monimar.co.uk

52 TheCoastalGuide 2026

TheCoastalGuide 2024 29

Shotley Sailing Club A great choice of sailing spots on the doorstep

W

ith its clubhouse between The Bristol Arms inn and the popular Shotley Marina, Shotley Sailing Club sits close to the confluence of the Orwell and Stour rivers. Located at the foot of the former HMS Ganges site and with far-reaching views across the water to Felixstowe and Harwich, it’s certainly well positioned for some exciting sailing.

Formed in 1969 by a small group of sailors who found that Harwich Harbour Authority would only negotiate with an organised legal entity when they sought permission to put moorings down in the nearby waters, the club initially operated on Sunday mornings from a summerhouse adjacent to the pub. It moved into its current purpose-built clubhouse in the 1980s, eventually purchasing the site and adjacent areas – including the foreshore – in 2005.

Today, the club organises an active dinghy, yacht racing and cruising calendar, with Wednesday evening fixtures from May to midSeptember attracting a mixed fleet of single- and double-handers. In addition to members’ own boats, the club’s Teras, Fevas and a Wanderer are

available for a small charge, with boat storage in a dinghy park just metres from the clubhouse and the slipway accessible at all states of the tide.

Aside from these midweek race nights, the clubhouse opens for a ladies’ night once a month, and over weekends. Keen to promote sailing as an all-round, familyfriendly activity, three types of membership are available and entitle use of the slipway, showers and clubhouse.

For more information, see www.shotleysailingclub.uk.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 53

YOUR GATEWAY TO NATURE’S PLAYGROUND Invest in a boat or holiday home on the Broads and make memories that last a lifetime

TINGDENE MARINAS & BOAT SALES

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Are you ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Broads and beyond? Look no further than Tingdene Marinas and Boat Sales, your premier destination for the ultimate boating experience.

Whether you’re a boat owner wanting to make the most of this stunning waterway or a holidaymaker seeking adventure, Tingdene Marinas has everything you need to elevate your Broads experience to new heights.

Looking to start or enhance your boating journey? Explore our new and used boats for sale on the Broads at Waveney River Centre.

LEISURE AND VISITOR MOORINGS AVAILABLE

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Our marinas boast first class facilities designed to cater to your every need. Join us and enjoy 28 nights free mooring at other Tingdene marinas plus other benefits and discounts including: • Pump out • Fuel* • Family friendly restaurants • Showers and toilet facilities • Launderette

• Slipway • Indoor heated swimming pool** • Play areas** * Waveney Only ** Broadlands and Waveney Only

Get in touch to find out more:

BROOM 50 YEAR: 2002 £219,950

FAIRLINE CARERRA 24 YEAR: 1989 £17,4900

FIND OUT MORE: boatsales@tingdene.net 01933 551622

WWW.TINGDENEBOATING.COM | T: 01603 717804 | E: MARINAS@TINGDENE.NET

54 TheCoastalGuide 2026

TINGDENE HOLIDAY PARKS

HOLIDAY HOMES FOR SALE

Welcome to the Broads, where every day holds the promise of adventure and tranquillity.

Imagine waking up to the gentle sway of boats on the water, stepping out to greet the day with a paddleboard excursion, or simply casting a line into the pristine waters teeming with fish. With our exclusive holiday parks offering direct access to the Broads, this dream can be your reality.

Invest in your family’s future and create memories to last a lifetime with a holiday home on the Broads.

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Our holiday parks are waiting to make your family holidays complete. With onsite swimming pools, play areas and family-friendly bars and restaurants, everyone will enjoy all there is to offer.

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HOLIDAYS ON THE BROADS To book a holiday at one of our parks please call www.holidaysforallseasons.co.uk | 0800 270 77 27

Get in touch to fi nd out more about exclusive opportunities on the Broads:

WWW.TINGDENEHOLIDAYPARKS.COM | T: 0800 270 77 27 | E: LIFESTYLE@TINGDENE.NET

TheCoastalGuide 2026 55

Bradwell Marina

Situated on the picturesque Blackwater estuary Ideal for exploring the river and other East Coast estuaries All visitors are welcome

There is no lock or sill and the Marina is accessible at nearly all states of tide for shallow-draft boats.

Deeper-draft vessels must exercise caution at low water, especially during spring tides, as the navigable channel in Bradwell Creek becomes shallow.

The Marina basin itself is dredged each year to give a minimum depth of 7ft at low water springs.

The yacht basis is well-sheltered, having been excavated behind the sea wall.

• 350 berths • Electricity and water on the pontoons • Diesel and super unleaded • Bottled gas • Open 7 days a week 08.30–17.00 • 45-ton boat hoist • Self-launch slipway • Clubhouse/restaurant • Large hardstanding with electricity • Laundry facilities

We listen on VHF Channel 80

For berthing and general enquiries please call 01621 776235 or email arthur@bradwellmarina.com

www.bradwellmarina.com

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Summer school

New courses at Bradwell-on-Sea offer adults a cost-effective intro to sailing on the Blackwater

T

wo additions to the Essex Outdoors centre’s 2026 calendar offer adults the opportunity to learn the ropes and boost their confidence on the water across a three-day weekend. The centre is located next to Bradwell Marina in the picturesque Blackwater Estuary, and participants will spend their time on the water in Wayfarer dinghies and Dufour keelboats, with the option of single-handed Picos for the most-keen and agile.

RYA instructors will work with small groups to help trainees hone their helming, strengthen their seamanship and learn all the sailor’s essential skills, from terminology to mooring, with the hope that RYA start sailing (L1), Basic

Skills (L2) or Better Sailing (L3) certificates will be awarded at the end of the course.

Both residential and day-based options are available, with prices at £399 for two nights’ dorm-room-style accommodation and all meals, and £299 for the non-residential package.

The dates for these courses are 18-20 July and 4-6 September – see www.essexoutdoors.com/ rya-adults-sailing-weekend for details.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 57

Southwold Sailing Club

A hive of activity on the beautiful Blackshore

R

un by members on a voluntary, not-for-profit basis, Southwold Sailing Club sits on the Blackshore with views across the River Blyth to Walberswick. About a mile upriver from the harbour entrance, the club’s sailing ground includes both the Blyth and the North Sea, and suits everything from the smallest dinghies to the largest cruisers.

The club shares these waters with local fishing vessels, permanent and visiting craft, and other boats coming into the Blyth for moorings, repair and restoration at Harbour Marine Services. Add into that mix the Southwold to Walberswick foot ferry, charter RIB Coastal Voyager and the RNLI lifeboat, and there’s a lot of traffic to negotiate!

58 TheCoastalGuide 2026

Other features such as the Bailey Bridge – which restricts access to the river’s upper reaches– and the harbour’s notoriously strong currents will put any sailor’s mettle to the test.

A strong competitive spirit has long been part of the ethos, however, and it means that every sailing expedition, whether on the river or out to sea, includes at least one race. “We believe that racing develops a sailor’s skills and creates a strong social cohesion among competitors,” says club secretary Karen Hubbard.

The sailing programme here features Sunday dinghy racing and a Friday night series for cruisers, complemented by an occasional longer passage race. The dinghy fleet comprises a range of craft including Javelins, Lasers and Wayfarers, while the cruiser fleet includes both lightweight cruiser-racers and heavy displacement cruisers ranging from 7-15m.

Southwold’s first recorded regatta was held in 1869, almost two centuries before the official beginning of the sailing club in 1949.

Today, the club has around 170 members – with

sailing skill levels ranging from complete novice to very experienced – and an August Bank Holiday regatta is a key annual fixture in the calendar which also includes the Javelin National Championships at the end of May. Off the water, the well-appointed clubhouse has a cosy bar and larger function room, with a balcony overlooking the river. “With a younger dynamic, we are a family-friendly club with a thriving social scene,” says Karen. A members’ Whatsapp group and Facebook posts keep everyone updated.

Over the last couple of years, much of the club’s shore-based focus has been on its need to replace a dangerously eroded dinghy-launching slipway – a vital resource which, in decline, was severely impeding sailing activities. With the cost of a new slipway estimated at more than £80,000, an incredible fundraising campaign included the club hosting a hugely successful music and beer festival, HarbourFest. And, despite additional costs and delays, the new slipway is expected to be completed this summer, with hopes to

organise the next HarbourFest in 2027.

While Southwold is a hot spot for generations of day-trippers and holidaymakers attracted by its beach, boutique stores and brewery, the slower pace of life along the Blackshore appeals to sailors from all along the East Coast as well as across the North Sea. Visitor moorings can be booked via Harbour Marine Services (www. harbourmarine.co.uk) or the local authorityemployed Harbourmaster, whose office and pontoons are within metres of Southwold Sailing Club. The club’s showers and changing rooms are available for use for a small fee, with a QR code on the door giving payment details and an access code. Southwold Sailing Club is always keen to welcome newcomers – for more information see www.southwoldsc.org.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 59

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Eyott Sailing Club Creek conditions offer a challenge for all

S

itting on the northern bank of Fenn Creek, a tidal tributary of the River Crouch, the location of Eyott Sailing Club challenges all levels of sailing ability while providing a safe learning environment for newcomers.

The club has been sailing on these waters for over 70 years and has seen many changes to the surrounding area – approach by road and you’ll wind your way through a housing estate in South Woodham Ferrers, the ‘New Riverside Country Town’ first initiated by Essex County Council in the 1970s. The club’s ethos, however, remains very much true to the spirit of its founding members: “Competitive on the water, best friends on the land, welcoming to visitors and there is nothing that can’t be put right over a cup of tea.”

While the proximity of the water, a southfacing aspect and enclosed grounds makes the club a safe location for families, the twists and turns of the creek combine with the tidal flow to make Eyott a special sailing venue, with a March to October racing

season the mainstay of its on-the-water activity.

Due to the restricted water of the creek the maximum length of boats is limited to 13ft and races normally involve sailing from the start line at the clubhouse out to the broader River Crouch.

There’s typically one race per day – which lasts for around 80 minutes – with staggered starts so that all boats finish at around the same time.

Eyott Week is the club’s key racing event, and is open to visitors who are welcome to leave their boats at the club while competing. This year’s event takes place 12-16 August, while ‘try sailing’ and open days at other times welcome those new to watersports – since 2011 Eyott Sailing Club has welcomed membership from those wishing to use it as a base for canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding too. For full club details see www.eyottsailingclub.org.uk.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 61 »

The UK’s leading yacht refit and repair facility Craftsmanship backed by 99 years of experience

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foxsmarina.com

62 TheCoastalGuide 2026

Creeksea Sailing Club Beyond Burnham’s mass moorings, this hidden gem has a fascinating history

O

ne of the county’s more quietlylocated sailing clubs, Creeksea in Essex sits just upriver of Burnham Yacht Harbour as the Crouch bends towards Bridgemarsh Marina and, beyond, Fambridge Yacht Haven.

Creeksea Sailing Club is RYAaffiliated and has a boathouse and changing area with toilets and showers all well hidden from the river. Local sailors will be familiar with the starting hut and slipway, however – both of which hint at the club’s history.

Creeksea owes its existence to the war years – the slipway was built to service the Navy’s Motor Torpedo flotilla and the RAF’s fast rescue boats that used the Crouch as a base for East Coast engagements and aircrew recovery.

The post-war period saw the restoration of nearby Creeksea Hall and the development of a caravan site which remains to this day. The abandoned slipway was used by weekenders to launch their boats, leading to the foundation of the club in 1957. In the club’s early years, a caravan chassis with a garden shed on top was hailed into position when required to serve as a race officers’ hut, but in 1976 a permanent hut

was built – and opened by then-Prime Minister and yachting enthusiast Edward Heath – and in 2020 the current building was opened, built to a design very much still recognisable as belonging to Creeksea Sailing Club.

On the water, the club offers launching from its private slipway at any state of the tide, provides racing for all dinghy classes, and has an active cruising membership. Look for Creeksea Sailing Club on Facebook or find more details at www.creeksea. org.uk – make sure you follow the website directions if planning to visit by road!

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Discover Fambridge Yacht Haven and the River Crouch Peaceful cruising, timeless countryside and a marina investing in the future of boating

With records dating back to 1807, The Ferry Boat Inn is steeped in history.

Nowadays, the pub’s reputation for fine food, good beer and local produce has grown, making it one of the most popular riverside inns in Essex.

The Ferry Boat Inn, Ferry Road, North Fambridge, Essex CM3 6LR Book your table or room online at www.ferryboatinnessex.com 01621 738844 64 TheCoastalGuide 2026

O

n the banks of the River Crouch in rural Essex lies the village of North Fambridge. A peaceful hamlet; a popular commuter town with London less than an hour away by direct train; a village whose pub dates back over two centuries; offering scenic riverside walks which pass the famous Blue House Farm nature reserve; and, perhaps surprisingly, one of the East Coast’s most welcoming boating destinations.

Here, among open skies, winding creeks and vast saltmarsh landscapes, Fambridge Yacht Haven has quietly become a favourite stop for sailors exploring the Essex coast.

For many visiting boaters, the River Crouch offers something increasingly rare: tranquil cruising waters, abundant wildlife and a sense of escape that feels a world away from city life.

Approaching by water, the river from Burnham-onCrouch gradually softens into a rural landscape of farmland and gently sloping hills. The pace of life slows noticeably here. Yachts move lazily between river moorings and paddleboarders drift along the shoreline, all beneath the expansive East Coast sky. It’s a scene that captures the essence of relaxed River Crouch cruising.

Fambridge Yacht Haven sits right at the heart of this landscape. With sheltered marina berths, visitor moorings and easy access to the wider Crouch estuary, the marina provides an ideal base for exploring one of Essex’s most scenic waterways. Popular destinations such as the River Roach and Yokesfleet Creek lie just a short cruise downstream, while the river’s quieter creeks and anchorages invite leisurely exploration.

Projects with positive impact Environmental stewardship also plays an important role in the marina’s ongoing development. Initiatives designed to protect the surrounding waterways help reduce pollution

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and improve waste management, ensuring that boating activity coexists responsibly with the delicate estuarine habitats nearby. “As custodians, we’re responsible for maintaining and preserving our marinas, ensuring our coastal areas are futureproofed for generations to come,” comments Marina Manager Cathy Burrell. “We’ve listened to what our customers and the marine industry are saying about making marina operations more sustainable, so we are introducing real projects that deliver positive impacts.”

One of the marina’s most significant commitments has been achieving zero waste to landfill across the site. Working with specialist recycling partners, all waste generated at the marina is now either recycled, reused or converted into energy. Even non-recyclable materials are processed into fuel pellets used to power energy plants, ensuring nothing from the marina ultimately ends up in landfill.

Behind the scenes, further investment has been made to protect the river itself. Modern interceptor tanks have been installed within the boatyard to filter water used during boat washdowns and maintenance work. These systems capture oils, antifouling residues, paint particles and other contaminants before the water is recycled and reused, preventing harmful substances from re-entering the River Crouch and significantly reducing overall water consumption.

Such measures are particularly important given the marina’s location beside the Blue House Farm nature reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) that attracts large numbers of migratory

Fambridge Yacht Haven is suitable for boats up to 16m in length and up to 40 tons in the boatyard, with sheltered marina berthing and good value river moorings.

Fambridge Yacht Haven, Church Road, North Fambridge, Essex CM3 6LU www.yachthavens.com 01621 740370 birds throughout the year. Protecting the health of the river helps safeguard the wider ecosystem that makes this part of the Essex coastline so special.

A place for villagers and visitors Ashore, the social heart of the marina is the much-loved Ferry Boat Inn, a riverside pub with a history stretching back more than 200 years.

Originally serving local fishermen, ferrymen and farm workers, the inn has long been a gathering place for the village and visiting sailors alike.

Today the pub blends historic charm with modern comfort. Traditional timber beams and cosy fireplaces sit alongside bright dining spaces and a large outdoor terrace overlooking the marina and river beyond. It remains a favourite destination for boat crews stepping ashore after a day’s sailing – whether for a relaxed lunch, a local ale on the terrace or a hearty evening meal while watching the sun set across the water.

For boat owners seeking relaxed cruising, friendly company and unspoilt scenery within easy reach of London, Fambridge Yacht Haven continues to offer something special. By combining ongoing investment in facilities with a genuine commitment to protecting its waterways, the marina is ensuring that this beautiful stretch of the River Crouch remains a thriving boating destination for generations to come.

For more information or berthing enquiries visit www.yachthavens.com/fambridge.

TheCoastalGuide 2026 65

Become a

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Fambridge Yacht Haven Church Road, North Fambridge, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 6LU 01621 740370 • fambridge@yachthavens.com www.yachthavens.com/fambridge

66 TheCoastalGuide 2026

MARINAS & MOORINGS

Brightlingsea Harbour

Tollesbury Saltings

Titchmarsh Marina

Bradwell Marina

Burnham Yacht Harbour

Bridgemarsh Marina

Blackwater Marina

Maylandsea

blackwater-marina.co.uk

Bradwell Marina

Bradwell

bradwellmarina.com

Bridgemarsh Marina

Althorne

bridgemarshmarina.co.uk

Brightlingsea Harbour

Brightlingsea

brightlingseaharbour.org

Brightlingsea Morgan Marine

Brightlingsea

morganmarine.com

Burnham Yacht Harbour

Burnham-on-Crouch

burnhamyachtharbour.co.uk

Essex

Essex Marina

Wallasea Island

essexmarina.co.uk

Fambridge Yacht Haven

Fambridge

yachthavens.com/fambridge

Ha’penny Pier

Harwich

hha.co.uk/mooring

Heybridge Basin

Heybridge

essexwaterways.com

Leigh Marina

Leigh-on-Sea

leighmarina.co.uk

Royal Corinthian Yacht Club

Burnham-on-Crouch

royalcorinthian.co.uk

Stour Sailing Club

Manningtree

stoursailingclub.co.uk

Titchmarsh Marina

Walton-on-the-Naze

titchmarshmarina.co.uk

Tollesbury Saltings

Tollesbury

tsl-marina.co.uk

Walton Yacht Basin

Walton-on-the-Naze

waltonyachtbasin.co.uk

West Mersea Yacht Club

West Mersea

wmyc.org.uk

Wivenhoe Sailing Club

Wivenhoe

wivenhoesailingclub.org

TheCoastalGuide 2026 67

Medway Bridge Marina Family-owned Medway Bridge Marina, located beneath the Medway Bridge in Rochester, has an unrivalled reputation for service and professionalism. For more than 40 years we have catered for motor cruisers of all sizes, with services including lift-out, scrub-off and hard standing.

Our floating pontoon berths are accessible at all states of the tide – finger berths accommodate craft up to 9m (30ft) and alongside berths can cater for larger vessels. We also have a pontoon with berths that are accessible for half the tide – usually 4 hours either side of High Water. All berth holders are entitled to discounted fuel, free parking and have 24-hour access to their boat as well as the toilets and shower facilities.

We offer: • Up to 25-ton boat hoist • Storage ashore • CCTV at entrance to site • Security gate access to the pontoons • Fresh water and electric at every berth • Waste facility • Toilet and shower facilities • On-site engineers marine engineers and electricians In addition, our Flexible Mooring Scheme allows annual berth holders, by prior arrangement, to take up to three months holiday with their craft and add the amount of time they are away to their 12-month agreement – this means you can enjoy up to 15 months mooring for the price of 12!

Medway Bridge Marina is also home to Medway Bridge Marina Car Sales, and has a storage compound for up to 90 caravans and motor homes. For any enquiries, please email Sam Dallas Marina Manager: sam@medwaybridgemarina.co.uk

www.medwaybridgemarina.co.uk

Medway Bridge Marina Ltd, Manor Lane, Rochester, Kent ME1 3HS • 01634 843576

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MARINAS & MOORINGS

Wells Harbour

Chatham Maritime Marina

North Kent Allington Lock

Allington

allingtonlock.co.uk

Allington Marina

Allington

allingtonmarina.com

Chatham Maritime Marina

Chatham

mdlmarinas.co.uk

Conyer Creek Marina

Sittingbourne

01795 521711

Cuxton Marina

Rochester

cuxtonmarina.com

Elmhaven Marina

Rochester

01634 240489

Gillingham Marina

Gillingham

gillingham-marina.co.uk

Margate Harbour

Margate

portoframsgate.co.uk

Medway Bridge Marina

Rochester

medwaybridgemarina.co.uk

Medway Pier Marine

Gillingham

01634 851113

Port Medway Marina

Cuxton

portmedwaymarina.co.uk

Queenborough Harbour

Queenborough

queenborough-harbour.co.uk

Royal Ramsgate Marina

Ramsgate

portoframsgate.co.uk

Swale Marina

Conyer Creek

swalemarina.co.uk

The Embankment Marina

Gravesend

theembankmentmarina.co.uk

Erith Yacht Club

River Thames

erithyachtclub.org.uk

Hermitage Community Moorings

River Thames

hermitagemoorings.com

Thames

Imperial Wharf Marina

River Thames

imperialwharfmarina.co.uk

Limehouse Marina

River Thames

aquavista.com

South Dock Marina

River Thames

020 7252 2244

St Katharine Docks

River Thames

skdocks.co.uk

Wells-next-the-Sea

portofwells.co.uk

Norfolk Wells Harbour

TheCoastalGuide 2026 69

MARINAS & MOORINGS

Tidemill Yacht Harbour

Shotley Marina

Woolverstone Marina

Broadlands Marina

Suffolk Broadlands Marina

Oulton Broad

tingdeneboating.com

Felixstowe Ferry

Felixstowe

07803 476621/01394 270106

Fox’s Marina

Ipswich

foxsmarina.com

Ipswich Beacon Marina

Ipswich

beaconmarinas.co.uk

Lowestoft Beacon Marina

Lowestoft

beaconmarinas.co.uk

Orford Quay

Orford

01394 459950

Ramsholt

Ramsholt

ramsholt-fairway.org

Royal Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club

Lowestoft

rnsyc.net

Shotley Marina

Shotley

shotleymarina.co.uk

Southwold Harbour

Southwold

01502 724712

Southwold Harbour Marine Services

Southwold

01502 724721

Suffolk Yacht Harbour

Levington

syharbour.co.uk

The Royal Harwich Yacht Club

Woolverstone

royalharwichyachtclub.org.uk

Tide Mill Yacht Harbour

Woodbridge

tidemillyachtharbour.co.uk

Waldringfield Moorings

Waldringfield

waldringfieldsc.com

Woolverstone Marina

Woolverstone

mdlmarinas.co.uk

70 TheCoastalGuide 2026

Boat Buildiing Repair. Restoration & Storage

Solar Powered Electric Launch Built by Demon Yachts 2023

Eau Vive, 2nd Place 2025 6 Metre World Championships Built by Demon Yachts 2025

www.demonyachts.co.uk info@demonyachts.co.uk

+44 (0)1728 452019

TheCoastalGuide 2026 71

Situated at the mouth of the River Blackwater, Essex, TSL’s natural marina provides yacht and barge moorings, boat & mast lifts, winter storage and local access to associated services.

Great for sailing too!

Benefits include: � Hardstanding area � Access to our maintenance posts � Access to water and electricity � Located just 15 minutes from the A12 � Cutomer toilet and shower block � Private parking � Recycling, rubbish and chemical wash out facilities � Local chandlery, tea room and other amenities

Range of half-tide berths available Join our friendly, welcoming community

Find out more, visit

tsl-marina.co.uk Mob: 07521 318155 • Tel: 01621 868113 • E-mail: info@tsl-marina.co.uk

72 TheCoastalGuide 2026

Snettisham Beach Sailing Club History, heritage, and a unique location

U

nique on the Norfolk Coast in that it has both an inland lake and open sea available, Snettisham Beach SC is a busy, friendly West Norfolk club with a great history, an unrivalled reputation for running top events and training, all on an exciting tidal stretch of The Wash.

The club is one of the leading watersports clubs on the East Coast, with family-friendly, multi-level sea-racing dinghy fleets, wind- and kite-surfing, paddleboarding and kayaking, plus a busy clubhouse and bar. With recent significant investment in facilities and equipment we are now delighted to be able to offer Accessible Sailing, plus a thriving radio controlled model yacht section who meet and race on Friday evenings.

The club is home to multiple National and European class champions and we run organised social sailing activities alongside a friendly but competitive racing programme. For racing the location is always exciting, with every day bringing new conditions from wind and tide.

The club boasts excellent facilities and our

west-facing terrace overlooks the boat park and a beautiful sandy beach – enjoy spectacular evening sunsets as you sit on the veranda with a drink or a meal.

We host sailing events throughout the season, with racing every weekend and Bank Holidays from March to November accompanied by a busy social calendar. We welcome visiting watersports enthusiasts and their families.

Events include Open Meetings plus four days of North West Norfolk Week (www.norfolkweek. co.uk), of which SBSC was a founding member. The junior fleet enjoys its own programme of racing on the lake at weekends and a fun Wednesday Evening Club, plus sea racing as skills develop. Our summer holiday Cadet Weeks for members from beginners through to experienced sea sailors have always been very popular – please see our website for more information, availability and booking details: www.snetbeach.co.uk. facebook.com/Snetbeach

SBSC has a dedicated RYA Recognised Training Centre which runs courses for adults and children throughout the season, from April to October. Sailing is a fantastic sport and a great way to relax and unwind with friends and family, so why not make the most of your summer in England and book a course, or arrange some private tuition at a time to suit you? All our courses are bookable on our website www.snetbeach.co.uk or, if you’d like to know more, please email courses.sbsc@gmail.com.

On Sunday 10 May we are running a club open day which is a great opportunity to visit the club, see our facilities, have a go on the water and make the most of some special offers on courses and membership. We would love to see you there!

Snettisham Beach Sailing Club, Snettisham Beach, Kings Lynn PE31 7RB 01485 542647 commodoreofsbsc@gmail.com courses.sbsc@gmail.com wwww.snetbeach.co.uk TheCoastalGuide 2026 73

Benfleet Yacht Club

F

ounded in 1922, Benfleet Yacht Club is a large and friendly members-run club located alongside Benfleet Creek, on the northern shore of Canvey Island in Essex.

The club offers great opportunities for all craft – dinghy sailing and coastal rowing mainly take place in the sheltered waters of Benfleet Creek, while for cruising yachts the Rivers Medway and Swale are just a few hours away, and slightly further afield are the superb cruising grounds of the East Coast rivers. For a great summer cruise, Benfleet is within striking distance of the northern coast of France and Belgium and the vast inland waterways of Holland.

Complementing the club’s busy sailing programme and popular Cadet Sail Training Week from 29 July, a superb clubhouse includes a bar that’s open lunchtime and evenings seven days a week, and there’s an active social and

74 TheCoastalGuide 2026

entertainments programme all year round. The club also has facilities for the disabled.

Benfleet Yacht Club is well known for organising The Nore Race (20 June), a combined open cruiser and dinghy race that covers a 20mile circuit of the Thames Estuary, starting and finishing at Southend Pier. Since 2010 Benfleet Yacht Club’s Coastal Rowers have also organised the Round Canvey Race (4 July), an annual open event in which rowing, paddling and sailing vessels complete a 14.5 mile circuit of Canvey Island. An eclectic mix of craft have competed, with boats from as far as Whitby taking part.

Scheduled for 1 May this year, ‘BYC at Home’ is open to other clubs and visitors.

Open to new members

Low Cost Moorings and Winter Lay-Up available Benfleet Yacht Club offers a large number of tidal moorings for yachts, along with second-to-none on-shore storage for both yachts and dinghies. A range of membership options and a one-off club joining fee of £150 are applicable, but the club is keen to be affordable for all: it’s possible to keep a 29ft yacht here for less than £798 a year – and that includes haul out, winter lay-up and relaunch!

Benfleet Yacht Club, Canvey Road, Canvey Island, Essex SS8 0QT 01268 792278 membership@benfleetyachtclub.org www.benfleetyachtclub.org

TheCoastalGuide 2026 75

Wivenhoe Sailing Club Celebrating more than a century on the water

F

ormed 101 years ago, Wivenhoe Sailing Club sits four miles upstream from Brightlingsea, close to the Colne Barrier which has protected Colchester, Wivenhoe and Rowhedge from rising tides for the last 30-plus years.

The River Colne provides ideal access to the continent as well as other East Coast destinations, and Wivenhoe Sailing Club is home to around 40 cruisers as well as 50 dinghies and many kayaks and canoes. Dinghy sailing takes place all year, with racing on Sundays, social sailing on Saturdays and ad hoc events at other times.

Tidal moorings for members are complemented by a modern clubhouse overlooking the river, with a comfortable bar and lounge. Pontoons are available for visiting yachts for stays of up to 48 hours and are accessible

76 TheCoastalGuide 2026

approximately two hours either side of high water. If you’re planning a stop-over, make sure you use the inner side – the outer side of the pontoons is for local fishermen – and beware of a strong ebb on spring tides. It’s also important to note that these berths will dry at low water.

Just a short walk from the club, Wivenhoe is a historic port town with a wealth of history reflected in its architecture, a fine choice of inns and eateries, and a volunteer-run ferry service to Rowhedge from April to October. For more information on the sailing club, see www.wivenhoesailingclub.org.

COASTAL CLUBS

Blackwater Sailing Club

Eyott Sailing Club

Brightlingsea Sailing Club

West Mersea Yacht Club

Essex Alexandra YC

Southend

alexyachtclub.co.uk

Ardleigh SC

Ardleigh

ardleighsc.co.uk

Benfleet YC

Canvey Island

benfleetyachtclub.org

Blackwater SC

Heybridge

blackwatersailingclub.org.uk

Bradwell Quay YC

Bradwell-on-Sea

bradwellquayyc.org

Brightlingsea Coastal Rowing Club

Brightlingsea

brightlingseacoastalrowingclub.co.uk

Brightlingsea SC

Brightlingsea

sailbrightlingsea.com

Burnham-on-Crouch SC

Burnham-on-Crouch

burnhamsc.co.uk

Chelmsford Canoe Club

Chelmsford

chelmsfordcanoeclub.co.uk

Clacton-on-Sea SC

Clacton-on-Sea

clactonsailing.club

Colne YC

Brightlingsea

colneyachtclub.org.uk

Dabchicks SC

West Mersea

dabchicks.org

Essex YC

Leigh-on-Sea

essexyachtclub.co.uk

Eyott SC

South Woodham Ferrers

eyottsailingclub.org.uk

Gunfleet SC

Holland-on-Sea

gunfleetsailingclub.co.uk

Harlow Blackwater SC

Maylandsea

harlow-blackwater-sailing-club.com

Harwich and Dovercourt SC

Harwich

hdsc.org.uk

Harwich Town SC

Harwich

htsc.co.uk

Hostellers SC

Paglesham

hostellerssailingclub.org.uk

Island YC

Canvey Island

islandyachtclub.org.uk

Leigh-on-Sea SC

Leigh-on-Sea

leighsailingclub.org

TheCoastalGuide 2026 77

COASTAL CLUBS

Harwich Town Sailing Club

Clacton-on-Sea Sailing Club

Walton & Frinton Yacht Club

Benfleet Yacht Club

Essex Maldon Canoe Club

Maldon

maldoncanoeclub.co.uk

Maldon Gig Rowing Club

Maldon

maldongigclub.org.uk

Maldon Little SC

Maldon

mlsc.org.uk

Marconi SC

Southminster

marconi-sc.org.uk

Maylandsea Bay SC

Maylandsea

maylandseabay-sc.org.uk

Mersea Island Rowing Club

West Mersea

mersearowingclub.org.uk

North Fambridge YC

North Fambridge

nfyc.co.uk

Rowhedge Coastal Rowing Club

Rowhedge

rowhedgecoastalrowingclub.teamapp.com

Royal Burnham YC

Burnham-on-Crouch

rbyc.org.uk

Royal Corinthian YC

Burnham-on-Crouch

royalcorinthian.co.uk

Southend Canoe Club

Southend-on-Sea

southendcanoe.org.uk

Stone SC

Southminster

stonesc.org.uk

Stour SC

Manningtree

stoursailingclub.co.uk

Thames Estuary YC

Westcliff-on-Sea

teyc.co.uk

Thorpe Bay YC

Southend-on-Sea

tbyc.org

Thurrock YC

Grays

thurrockyachtclub.org.uk

Tollesbury SC

Tollesbury

tollesburysc.com

The University Community SC

Brightlingsea

ucscbrightlingsea.com

Up River YC

Hullbridge

upriver.org.uk

Wakering YC

Rochford

wakeringyachtclub.org.uk

Walton and Frinton YC

Walton-on-the-Naze

wfyc.co.uk

West Mersea YC

West Mersea

wmyc.org.uk

Wivenhoe SC

Wivenhoe

wivenhoesailingclub.org

Wivenhoe Corsairs Rowing Club

Wivenhoe

wivenhoecorsairsrowing.club

78 TheCoastalGuide 2026

COASTAL CLUBS

Medway Yacht Club

Erith Yacht Club

North Kent Conyer Cruising Club

Conyer

c/o swalemarina.co.uk

Erith YC

Erith

erithyachtclub.org.uk

Gravesend SC

Gravesend

gravesendsailingclub.co.uk

Hampton Pier YC

Whitstable

hpyc.org.uk

Hollow Shore Cruising Club

Whitstable

hollowshorecc.org

Herne Bay SC

Herne Bay

hernebaysailingclub.co.uk

Hoo Ness YC

Rochester

hooness.org.uk

Hundred of Hoo SC

Rochester

hundredofhoosailingclub.org

Isle of Sheppey SC

Sheerness

iossc.org.uk

Lower Halstow YC

Lower Halstow

lhyc.org.uk

Medway Cruising Club

Gillingham

medwaycruisingclub.org.uk

Medway Watersports Trust

Gillingham

medwaywatersports.co.uk

Medway YC

Lower Upnor

medwayyachtclub.com

Queenborough YC

Queenborough

qyc.org.uk

Rochester Cruising Club

Rochester

rochestercruisingclub.co.uk

Royal Temple YC

Ramsgate

rtyc.com

Segas SC

Gillingham

segassailingclub.co.uk

Strood YC

Rochester

stroodyachtclub.jimdofree.com

Tonbridge Town SC

Tonbridge

tonbridgesailing.org

Whitstable YC

Whitstable

wyc.org.uk

Wilsonian SC

Hoo

wilsoniansc.org.uk

Docklands Sailing & Watersports Centre

Isle of Dogs

dswc.org

Greenwich YC

Greenwich

greenwichyachtclub.co.uk

London

TheCoastalGuide 2026 79

COASTAL CLUBS

Brancaster Staithe Sailing Club

Hunstanton Sailing Club

Wells Sailing Club

Snettisham Beach Sailing Club

Norfolk Blakeney SC

Blakeney

blakeneysailing.co.uk

Brancaster Staithe SC

Brancaster Staithe

bssc.net

Coldham Hall SC

Surlingham

coldhamhallsailingclub.co.uk

Gt Yarmouth & Gorleston SC

Gorleston -on-Sea

gygsc.co.uk

Hickling Broad SC

Hickling

hicklingbroad.com

Hickling Windsurfing Club

Hickling

hicklingbroad.co.uk

Horning SC

Horning

horning-sailing.club

Hunstanton SC

Hunstanton

hunstantonsailingclub.co.uk

Norfolk Broads YC

Wroxham

nbyc.co.uk

Norfolk Punt Club

Barton Broad

puntclub.co.uk

Norfolk Schools Sailing Association

Filby Broad

nssa.co.uk

Northern Rivers SC

Acle

nrscsailingclub.com

Ouse Amateur SC

King’s Lynn

oasc.co.uk

Snettisham Beach SC

Snettishham

snetbeach.co.uk

Snowflake SC

Wroxham

sfsc.co.uk

Wells SC

Wells-next-the-Sea

wellssailingclub.co.uk

Whitlingham Adventure

Norwich

whitlinghamadventure.org.uk

Yare SC

Norwich

yaresailingclub.org.uk

80 TheCoastalGuide 2026

COASTAL CLUBS

Deben Yacht Club

Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club

Aldeburgh Yacht Club

Royal Harwich Yacht Club

Suffolk Adastral Park SC

Ipswich

adastralsailing.org.uk

Aldeburgh YC

Aldeburgh

aldeburghyc.org.uk

Alton Water

Stutton

anglianwaterparks.co.uk

Beccles Amateur SC

Beccles

becclesasc.co.uk

Deben Rowing Club

Woodbridge

debenrowingclub.com

Deben YC

Woodbridge

debenyachtclub.co.uk

Felixstowe Ferry SC

Felixstowe

ffsc.co.uk

Fox’s Marina YC

Ipswich

fmyc.org.uk

Haven Ports YC

Levington

hpyc.com

Ipswich Canoe Club

Ipswich

ipswichcanoeclub.org.uk

Ipswich Rowing Club

Ipswich

ipswichrc.org.uk

Kessingland Sea SC

Levington

kessingland-seasailingclub.uk

Lowestoft Cruising Club

Lowestoft

lowestoftcruisingclub.org

Lowestoft Rowing Club

Oulton Broad

lowestoftrowingclub.org.uk

TheCoastalGuide 2026 81

COASTAL CLUBS

Southwold Sailing Club

Woodbridge Cruising Club

Pin Mill Sailing Club

Waldringfield Sailing Club

Suffolk Orford Sailing Club

Orford

orfordsail.org.uk

Orwell YC

Ipswich

orwellyachtclub.org.uk

Oulton Broard Water Sports Centre

Lowestoft

oultobroadwatersportscentre.co.uk

Pin Mill SC

Pin Mill

pmsc.org.uk

Royal Harwich YC

Woolverstone

royalharwichyachtclub.org.uk

Royal Norfolk and Suffolk YC

Lowestoft

rnsyc.net

Shotley Point YC

Shotley

shotleypointyc.org

Shotley SC

Shotley Gate

shotleysailingclub.uk

Slaughden SC

Aldeburgh

slaughdensailingclub.co.uk

Southwold SC

Southwold

southwoldsc.org

St Edmundsbury Sailing & Canoeing Ass

Bury St Edmunds

westsuffolksailing.org.uk

Waldringfield SC

Woodbridge

waldringfieldsc.com

Waveney & Oulton Broad YC

Oulton Broad

wobyc.com

Waveney Sailability

Oulton Broad

waveneysailability.co.uk

Woodbridge Cruising Club

Woodbridge

woodbridgecruisingclub.org

82 TheCoastalGuide 2026

THE SWALLOWTAIL BURNHAM ON CROUCH Marina Bar & Restaurant situated at Burnham Yacht Harbour, with beautiful views across the River Crouch all year round.

Open to the general public, with a heated balcony & a function suite available for private hire.

Serving meals, snacks, desserts, hot drinks, and alcoholic beverages (including cocktails!). Open 7 days a week during summertime.

FOR BOOKINGS & ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT: SWALLOWTAIL@BURNHAMYACHTHARBOUR.CO.UK OR 01621785505

TheCoastalGuide 2026 83

Visiting Burnham Yacht Harbour?

Please call our Harbourmaster on 01621 786832 or call up on VHF Channel 80 for visitor berth allocation

350 fully serviced berths Safe and secure moorings 24-hour tidal access Restaurant, bar and function room open to everyone Heated workshop Shipwrights, engineers and outfitters Yacht brokerage Showers, toilets and laundry facilities Free WiFi Direct rail links to London

For a full list of incentives and deals please visit our website www.burnhamyachtharbour.co.uk or call 01621 782150