Set in a wonderful part of the country, this month we are paying a visit to Dorset’s Portland Marina.
Nestled on the Isle of Portland in Dorset, Portland Marina’s prime location offers direct access to the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and fossil-rich beaches. The perfect playground for those who love to get afloat, there is also plenty of fun to be found ashore with Chesil Beach, historic quarries and the famous Portland Bill.
With Portland’s 20km of stunning coastline and rich, dramatic history, all within easy reach of the vibrant seaside town of Weymouth, there are plenty of adventures to be had. Whether you crave heart-pounding excitement or serene relaxation with a chilled drink in hand, Portland Marina offers a blend of maritime charm and a welcoming community spirit.
Opened in 2010 for the 2012 Olympic Games, it blends modern amenities and state-of-the-art facilities, including a secure boatyard, a dedicated boatcare team and the innovative Beyonder boat subscription service, providing flexible boating experiences without traditional ownership.
FACILITIES & BERTHING
Portland Marina is a premier destination for boaters, offering exceptional hospitality and world-class facilities. With more than 440 berths in the residential area accommodating boats from six to 25m, and space for larger vessels of up to 40m on hammerhead pontoons, its ample depth and space make it particularly suitable for multihulls.
Key features and facilities at the marina include:
Secure Boatyard: Designed to handle a range of maintenance and repair tasks, the marina boasts a fully serviced boatyard with a 50-ton boat hoist capable of lifting vessels up to 22m long and 5.5m wide.
boatcare Team: The boatcare team of on-site marine engineers and repair specialists are available to help with everything from routine maintenance and repairs to complete refits. Their services include valeting, polishing, antifouling, GRP repairs and electrical work, providing comprehensive care for your vessel.
boatpoint Brokerage: The marina features an on-site brokerage office, offering services for buying and selling boats. As the UK’s largest boat broker and dealers for global market leading brands including Jeanneau and Elan, as well as the UK exclusive dealer for Ryds and Quarken powerboats and Sasga Yachts, there is a wide selection of options for boat enthusiasts.
Beyonder Service: For those who are new to boating, Portland Marina provides access to boatfolk’s Beyonder boat subscription service. This flexible option offers an ideal opportunity to experience the water without the commitment of traditional boat ownership. Beyonder members benefit from exclusive perks, rewards and the unique privilege of accessing Beyonder boats at other boatfolk marinas throughout the UK.
Additional amenities include:
Fuel berth situated in the visitor’s area and land-based fuel on the hoist dock with E5 petrol and red diesel available at both locations.
130 dry stack bunks for motor boats up to 9m LOA.
Dedicated visitor berthing area.
WiFi – High-speed internet accessible throughout the marina.
24-hour security.
Short and long-term storage.
On-site 24-hour car parking.
ACCESS
Although it is easy to get to Portland Marina by road and rail, nothing beats an arrival by sea. From the north entrance of the harbour follow the fairway heading southwest, marked by red buoys and a safe water mark. The eastern entrance can also be used but it is always recommended to contact Portland Port on VHF Ch74 to check it is clear to transit, as this is used by the commercial shipping moving in and out of the harbour. If arriving by land, the marina is a short taxi ride from Weymouth train station, which has direct links with London. By car, follow the A35 to Dorchester, followed by the A354 to Weymouth and onward across the causeway to Portland. There is ample car parking with a dedicated car park for Portland annual berth holders and a convenient drop-off zone for loading and unloading.
CRUISING
Cruising from Portland opens up a world of exploration, with the West Country and Brittany offering a treasure trove of creeks, crannies and unspoiled harbours waiting to be discovered. Closer to home, the bays to the east of Portland are ideal for lunchtime BBQs and tranquil overnight stops, showcasing stunning views along the UNESCO World Heritage coastline. Ringstead, Warbarrow and Mupe Bays are must-visits in calm weather, along with the iconic Lulworth Cove with its panoramic views and crystal-clear waters. The Solent and Poole are within easy reach, or navigate around the Bill (timing the tide makes it a breeze) to venture straight to the Channel Islands, just a day’s sail away, for the sunniest spot in the British Isles scattered with sheltered coves and sandy beaches. With Lyme Regis and the English Riviera of Torquay and Brixham also to the west, your nautical adventures from Portland Marina are limitless!
OUT AND ABOUT
Portland Marina offers a gateway to a thriving local area teeming with excitement and natural beauty. Uncover the wonders of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its striking cliffs, secret coves and fossil-rich shores, all just a stone’s throw from Portland Marina. Whilst Chesil Beach, with its 18-mile stretch, is ideal for birdwatching and enjoying panoramic coastal views.
Journey to the southern tip of the island to see the iconic Portland Bill Lighthouse or immerse yourself in the island’s history by visiting its historic quarries, which have supplied stone for many of London’s landmarks. In the northwest, Tout Quarry has been transformed into a nature reserve and sculpture park, with artistic creations hidden along its pathways.
For those who love adventure, the clear waters around the marina provide countless opportunities for sailing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, kayaking, diving and coasteering. Numerous local companies offer equipment rentals, guided excursions and lessons for nearly every watersport. Or keep your feet on solid ground and enjoy rock climbing on Portland’s stunning limestone cliffs, taking in the breathtaking scenery.
Back on shore, whether you are looking for a romantic dinner, a family-friendly meal or a vibrant gathering with friends, you will find just the place at Portland Marina. From contemporary dining and panoramic views at Salt Restaurant, to the relaxed and cosy cosmopolitan charm of The Kitchen at Portland Marina, Portland’s diverse dining scene offers something for every occasion.
A well-stocked galley is an important part of life afloat and conveniently a Lidl supermarket is a five minute walk away. For boaty bits and bobs there is an on-site boat store and for more options, Easton and Weymouth are a short bus (or ferry!) ride away.
www.boatfolk.co.uk/portland-marina-dorset/things-to-see-and-do/portland
BUSINESSES AT THE MARINA
boatcare – covering every aspect of boat maintenance and repair in conjunction with local service partners
boatpoint – experienced on-site brokers
The Andrew Simpson Sailing Centre – based in the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy offering RYA dinghy sailing, powerboat and shore-based courses, as well as performance sailing in foiling dinghies
Adventure4All – leading outdoor activity provider
Moonfleet Adventure Sailing – tall ship offering you some swashbuckling adventures!
Sail Tortuga – short, day and sunset cruises aboard a 40’ Fontaine Pajot catamaran
Portland Yacht Club – welcome to anyone who loves having fun afloat
Fins Up – fishing charters
CS Boardsports – learn to kitesurf with beginner to advanced coaching
Scimitar Diving, Skin Deep Diving and Sea Leopard – Dive charters
Portland Gas Shack – Tank refills and diving equipment
The Beauty Deck – Beauty salon offering massage, hair, nails, aesthetics and more.
PERSONAL RECOMMENDATION
“Over the past five years, our experience at Portland Marina has been exceptional. The entire team is always welcoming, organised and helpful, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions. The marina offers a safe environment and excellent facilities, including a pristine shower block, laundry and drying room. They also host fun, charitable events throughout the summer. After a day at sea, we enjoy relaxing with a meal and drinks at The Salt restaurant, where even our furry friend is welcome. The Kitchen café is perfect for breakfast. Fellow boat owners and fishermen are always friendly, making us feel at home. For both short and long stays, we highly recommend Portland Marina.”
Gary & Sarah, Noka’oi
Portland Marina
Osprey Quay, 6 Hamm Beach Road
Portland, Dorset DT5 1DX
Latitude: 50° 34.46’ North
Longitude: 2° 27.26’ West
Tel: 01305 866190
Email: portland@boatfolk.co.uk
General Manager: Jon Eads
Marina Operations Manager: Tom Ralph
Boatcare Manager: Lee Meachim
