Poole is Europe's largest natural harbour and a stunning location for all types of water sports fringed with unspoilt woodland and coastal walks. The harbour is a site of nature conservation, a wetland teeming with wading birds with many international protections in place. It is a Ramsar site which recognises wetlands of international importance particularly for wild foul. It is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSI) which recognises the country's most spectacular and beautiful habitats and a Special Protection Area (SPA).
Just outside Poole Harbour, one mile from the beaches in Poole Bay is Poole Marine Conservation Area. The 4 square kilometres of sea bed features 10 different types of habitat and is home to more than 360 different marine species. The designation provides protection from damaging activities allowing marine wildlife and habitat to thrive.
With over a dozen yacht clubs and marinas, the harbour is alive with all types of craft and the appeal of safe sailing attracts all ages and abilities keen to get on the water.
View the Poole Harbour Guide for more information. Details about other marinas in the harbour area can be found on the Poole Quay Boat Haven and Port of Poole Marina website.
Harbour dues are payable by all resident and visiting craft in Poole Harbour - contact the Poole Harbour Commissioners for more information.
Emergencies
In case of any emergency in the harbour please contact the Harbour Control Officer using VHF Channel 14 (or 16), Call Sign “Poole Harbour Control”, Tel: 01202 440230 email: harbourcontrol@phc.co.uk
Poole Harbour safety regulations
In order to allow all harbour users to enjoy the water safely, to minimise conflict and to protect the rich variety of wildlife, the Harbour has been zoned for various activities. Please respect the Quiet Areas where the speed limit is 6 knots.
Safe navigation
You must navigate with care throughout the Harbour. Stay clear of shipping and adhere to instruction given by the Harbour Master patrol officers.
Harbour entrance
This is a potentially hazardous area. Please navigate with extreme caution. Use your engine if you have one fitted. The Harbour Entrance is only 300 metres wide, with very strong tidal streams particularly at spring tides. Slow moving chain ferry operates at its narrowest point which has right of way. Think ahead and pass well clear astern of it.
Speed limit
There is a speed limit of 10 knots throughout, except in the Quiet Areas, Little Channel and Holes Bay where the speed limit is 6 knots.
Waterskiing and wakeboarding
A permit is required for waterskiing inside the harbour. This can be obtained from the Harbour Office or the Poole Harbour website.
The designated water ski area is in the Wareham Channel and is approximately 2000 metres long and varies in width between 300 metres and 600 metres. The area is marked by blue and white stakes, yellow buoys and notice boards. Water skiers are exempt from the speed limit when operating within this area. Launch at Rockley, Harbourside Park or Cobbs Quay.
Personal water craft (jetskis and waterbikes):
A permit is required for use of Personal Watercraft inside the harbour. This can be obtained from the Harbour Office or the Poole Harbour website: Use of a Personal Watercraft in excess of the speed limit is only allowed in the designated area to the north of Brownsea Island. Speed limits must be observed in all other areas. Personal Watercraft are not allowed in the quiet area to the south of Brownsea Island.
Kitesurfing/Windsurfing:
A permit is required for kitesurfing inside the harbour. This can be obtained from the Harbour Office or the Poole Harbour Poole Harbour is one of the best board sailing venues on the South Coast. There is a dedicated board sailing area in Whitley Lake at Sandbanks, which is shallow and safe, but dries out at low water. It is ideal for novices and the area is next to the road and a sandy beach and is very convenient for unloading and rigging. Wind Surfing is not allowed in the Harbour entrance or shipping channels.
Parascending
May only take place inside the Harbour with the permission of the Harbour Master.
See Local Notices for Mariners for specific restrictions that apply throughout the harbour.