We offer a range of boat trips in Chichester Harbour right through the year on Solar Heritage, our eco-friendly solar-powered boat. Each sailing offers the opportunity to get up close to many of the birds and habitats that make Chichester Harbour so special. You can also enjoy a unique sailing experience on the restored 1895 Oyster Boat Terror from May to September.
Choose from the following trips or book a private charter:
Nature and Birdwatching Trips – up to 2 hours
Tens of thousands of wading birds and waterfowl spend their winters here and we offer specialist trips over Autumn and Winter to observe the birds in their natural habitats. Trip times are planned in conjunction with our nature experts to time in with optimum viewing around tides.
- Expert commentary from our team who will point out internationally-protected species and share key facts
- Binoculars available to borrow or bring your own
- Suitable for experienced bird-watchers and those eager to know more
Adult £19 | Child under 16 £9.50
Special Events
During the winter months our special events offer the opportunity for some unique experiences on the water.
December, selected dates and times
- These 1.5 hour birdwatching trips will include Mince Pies and Mulled Wine. Hot chocolate and a mince pie alternative will be available!
Adult £19 | Child under 16 £9.50 | Under 1 free
Harbour Discovery (Itchenor) – 1.5 hours
Sailing from Itchenor, this trip will allow you to see Chichester Harbour from a unique perspective:
- Experience superb views of Chichester Harbour, a National Landscape
- Enjoy commentary sharing details of the wildlife which make Chichester Harbour home
- Take in local landmarks and must-see nature spots
- Children’s activity packs available on board
Adult £15 | Child under 16 £7.50 | Under 2 free | Family £40
Evening Cruises – 1.5 hours
During the warmer months an evening cruise offers the opportunity to sit back and unwind:
- Enjoy incredible scenes across the harbour at sunset
- Experience stunning panoramic views of the National Landscape
- Bring a picnic and make an evening of it!
Adult £15 | Child under 16 £7.50 | Under 2 free | Family £40
Dog-Friendly Boat Trips – 1.5 hours
Our dog-friendly boat trips offer the chance for your four-legged friends to join the sailing too. These run during the warmer months as part of our ‘Harbour Discovery’ offering.
- Cruise the harbour and take in the stunning scenery and wildlife
- Well-behaved dogs welcome
- Water bowl and treats provided!
Adult £15 | Child under 16 £7.50 | Under 2 free | Family £40 | Dogs free!
Seal Safaris – 3 hours
Both Grey Seals and Harbour Seals can be spotted in the harbour, resting on the mudflats at low tide. This extended three-hour trip offers a unique opportunity to see these special mammals first-hand:
- Our Seal Expert is on board to provide commentary as you travel and answer your questions
- We are a wildlife-aware organisation with WISE accreditation helping you enjoy the seals whilst ensuring they get the space they need.
- Seal Safaris run during the warmer months (April until October) giving them a break over their critical pupping and moulting seasons (mid-June to mid-July and August) as advised for seal welfare.
Adult £27 | Child under 16 £13.50
Recommended minimum age 8 years
Sailing Experiences
Take the helm on a historic sailing boat!
Join an exclusive sailing experience on the restored 1895 Oyster Boat Terror. Once used to transfer oysters ashore from larger boats in the harbour, Terror is now used exclusively for leisure trips between May and September. Perfect for small groups or an unforgettable family trip, passengers are encouraged to take the helm and experience the thrill of sailing a traditional gaff-rigged boat.
- Trips welcome just 6 passengers at a time, lasting 2-3 hours
- Sailings depart from Emsworth Yacht Harbour
- Full support of knowledgeable crew
Terror is a non-profit making venture, run by volunteers from the charity Friends of Chichester Harbour.
Harbour Discovery (Emsworth) – 1 hour
Sailing from Emsworth during the summer months, this trip will allow you to see Chichester Harbour from a unique perspective:
- Experience superb views of Chichester Harbour National Landscape
- Enjoy commentary, sharing details of the wildlife which make Chichester Harbour home
- Take in local landmarks and must-see nature spots
- Children’s activity packs available on board
Adult £15 | Child under 16 £7.50 | Under 2 free | Family £40
Find out more about boat trips in Chichester Harbour
Our Solar Heritage boat trips in Chichester Harbour operate all year round, from Itchenor, and we also sail from Emsworth during the summer months. Powered by solar, the boat is virtually silent and is a wonderful way to visit Chichester Harbour and learn more about the wildlife and history of this special place.
- The boat is fitted with a passenger lift and is wheelchair-accessible
- There is a small toilet on board (not wheelchair accessible)
- You are welcome to bring your own drinks and picnics onboard
Sailing experience on the restored 1895 Oyster Boat Terror typically operate from May to September. For all questions about Terror Trips please visit: Oyster Boat Terror
We’re a wildlife-aware organisation with WISE accreditation helping ensure that birds and wildlife get the space they need.