Things to do in Dorset

Sailing and Watersports

Cottages by the coast | Lulworth cove in Dorset

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Lulworth Rib Rides

The BEST way to see the Jurassic Coast! From the awe inspiring Lulworth Cove, out to sea, to view the exceptional geography of 200 Million year old rock formations including Stair Hole, Man O’ War, St Oswalds Bay and Durdle Door. You simply can not appreciate the scale and beauty of the coast from the shore. Highly recommended.

The rib ride boat called ‘Karelisa’ runs daily (weather permitting) from the beach. Trips are 15 mins approx and you can just run up on the day. Karelisa is a 9m RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat,) which can carry 12 people plus crew. Karelisa is equipped with all necessary safety equipment and the boat and Skipper are certificated by MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency.)

Adults £6, Children £4

SPECIAL OFFER: Private Charter get 30 mins free when booking a private charter along the Jurassic Coast! Use code 30SS16 when booking. Please call 01305 849225. Mon-Fri on private charters 1 hour or longer. 50% deposit required to secure booking. Subject to sea conditions

Mudeford Quay

Mudeford Quay is situated at the entrance to Christchurch Harbour and provides spectacular views out to sea and back to Christchurch town. The Quay Head has traditional commercial fishing activity and a fish stall as well as mackerel fishing trips and speed boat cruises. A ferry runs from the Quay Head to Mudeford Sandbank. The Quay Head is also home to Highcliffe Sailing Club and the Mudeford RNLI Station.

Greenslade Pleasure Boats

Provide the public with ferry trips to Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour Cruises, Coastal Cruises and Wareham River trips. The staff are committed to providing an enjoyable, safe, friendly and informative passenger experience aboard their boats. Call 01202 669955 to book your boat trip.

Wareham River Trips

Town history river cruises on a genuine Admiralty motor whaler. Entertaining and informative. See birds and wildlife. 1 Hour cruises to Poole Harbour. Boats depart daily. Spend around an hour ashore to explore this market town before cruising back to Poole Quay. Total cruise time is approximately 3½ hours. While aboard take advantage of the wonderful upper viewing deck, comfortable lounge, washroom and fully licensed bar serving hot and cold beverages, real Purbeck Ales, beers, wines and snacks.

Splashdown Waterpark

Is a great day out for family and friends. There’s something for everyone, from big kids to little ones – with some of the UK’s most exciting waterflumes. For the thrill–seekers, brave the Screamer with its sheer vertical drop. Plunge into darkness on the Black Thunder. And hold on to your pants as you shoot down the Spacebowl like a human pinball. Or if that sounds a bit like hard work, just go with the flow on the Red River Roller.

The Big Canoe

Operates guided HALF DAY and FULL DAY tours launching from various locations in Poole Harbour. This unique water-based activity is ideal for fun days out with friends and family, group activities, company away days, corporate events and team building activities. Call 0844 288 4747 to book your places.

The Old Granary, a Hall and Woodhouse Pub by the River Frome in Wareham

Wareham Boat Hire

See the yachts, birds and wildlife that frequent this beautiful place. Enjoy the River Frome which runs through the center of the town past ancient priories and wharfs before running into Poole Harbour. Traditionally offering Rowing Boats for those wishing to experience this beautiful river, Wareham Boat Hire are now able to offer a complete range of activities from Motor Boats to Kayaks and Canoes, Paddle Boarding or Rowing.

New Forest Water Park

Set in 50 acres of beautiful New Forest countryside and lakes, there’s something for everyone at the New Forest Water Park.

Shell Bay Sailing Centre

Have direct access to the quiet and protected waters of Poole harbour. Activities are available for individuals, or groups of up to 15 persons and range from a one hour taster session to a full day excursion. Open daily from April – September. Call 01258 880512 for more information.

Jurassic Kayak Tours

provide quality Jurassic Kayak Tours along Dorset’s World Heritage coastline under the supervision of local qualified guides.

Whites Motor Boats.

Take a refreshing sea journey through Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour to Portland Castle or view the Jurassic Coast from sea. There is even a glass bottomed boat experience! Adrenalin junkies can take an exciting white water ride in Portland’s infamous tidal race, or perhaps a speedboat ride out in Weymouth Bay! Call 01305 785000 for more details.

Depart from Weymouth at 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm -Extra ferries run at peak times Journeys 40 minutes Approx
Depart from Portland Castle at 11.20am, 1.20pm, 3.20pm – Extra ferries run at peak times Journeys 40 minutes Approx.

Highcliffe Sailing Club.

Located at the prime coastal location of Mudeford Quay allowing the club to offer sailing in the sheltered waters of Christchurch harbour and open water sailing in Christchurch Bay. The club primarily concentrates on organising a full, fun and competitive sailing agenda. Almost entirely volunteer run and organised so they are always looking for a set of helping hands, both on and off the water. A number of members meet up for a tour of the stunningly beautiful harbour on weekdays both for the practice and the sheer enjoyment.