Autumn is a beautiful time to take to the water on a boat trip in Chichester Harbour. In autumn, the harbour’s saltmarshes and woodlands turn golden, russet and amber. The softer light makes the water shimmer in a different way, and the sunsets can be spectacular.
Autumn is also prime time for migratory birds and harbour wildlife. You might spot flocks of Brent Geese returning from the Arctic, waders gathering in large numbers and seals basking on the mudflats.
Low autumn sunlight and dramatic skies create perfect conditions for photography too – whether it’s birds in flight, reflections on the water or silhouettes against the sunset.
Our autumn boat trips include:
Harbour Discovery – departing from Itchenor, this 1.5 hour trip offers a great way to experience all the best features of Chichester Harbour – see the sailing boats on the water, spot different species of birdlife and take in the stunning coastline, set against the backdrop of the changing season.
Bird Watching – tens of thousands of wading birds and waterfowl arrive in the autumn so this season offers the perfect opportunity to come aboard to spot Brent Geese, Curlew, Godwits, Dunlin, Wigeon and Teal with expert commentary from one of our team of nature experts.
Seal Safaris– this wildlife focused trip has been designed to offer a quiet and peaceful way to spot the harbour seals and grey seals in their natural habitat. We work closely with our lead seal expert to choose the perfect moments for viewing, whilst always respecting breeding seasons and WISE guidelines.
Special Events – our autumn programme aims to share some of the harbour’s history, and spectacular scenery. This year our trips include half-term bird watching and seal spotting and a special guided boat trip on Sunday 9th November in which Pete Hughes, Chichester Harbour Conservancy’s Ecologist will talk about the threats faced by over-wintering and summer breeding birds, as well as the work being done to protect them. Timed to observe birds in their high tide roosts, it will hopefully offer a wonderful array of birds taking to the skies.