Autumn brings a different kind of beauty to Chichester Harbour. Soft light falls across the water, the shoreline takes on its seasonal colours and flocks of birds return to spend the winter here. It’s a wonderful time to wrap up warm and see this special landscape from the water.
This October and November, join us aboard Solar Heritage, our virtually silent, solar-powered boat, for wildlife watching, autumn sunsets and some special half-term adventures. All the trips below depart from Itchenor.
Discover the harbour this October
Our 1.5-hour Harbour Discovery trips offer a lovely way to take in Chichester Harbour National Landscape as the seasons change. Enjoy panoramic views, spot local landmarks and listen to our knowledgeable crew share stories about the harbour and its wildlife. Children’s activity packs are available on board too.
Look out for seals
Join our three-hour Seal Safari on Sunday 18th October, from 10.30am to 1.30pm, for the chance to see Harbour Seals and Grey Seals in their natural surroundings. With commentary from our seal expert, you’ll learn more about these fascinating mammals while giving them the space they need. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, which makes every encounter all the more special.
Half-term adventures on the water
For a half-term family outing with a difference, our Roman History boat trip on Monday 26th October, from 10.15am to 11.45am, will take you on a journey into the harbour’s past. Susan Webber from the Novium Museum will guide this special sailing from Itchenor towards Dell Quay via Fishbourne Creek, exploring Roman trade, transport and life along the harbour.
Young nature lovers can also join our one-hour Birds Ahoy! trips on 29th, 30th and 31st October. These friendly introductions to birdwatching are suitable for children of all ages, with binoculars available to borrow. The sailings on 29th and 30th October are Great Coastal Birdwatch specials, with colleagues from Bird Aware Solent on board to help families spot and learn about the harbour’s feathered visitors.
Enjoy an autumn sunset
Sit back and watch the harbour in the changing light on a Sunset Harbour Discovery trip. With open sides and wide views across the water, Solar Heritage is a peaceful place to enjoy the scenery and a little time to unwind. Bring your own refreshments and make an occasion of it!
Sunset sailings take place on Saturday 24th October, from 4.30pm to 6pm, and Saturday 14th November, from 3pm to 4.30pm.
Discover the harbour’s winter birds
As autumn turns towards winter, tens of thousands of wading birds and waterfowl gather in Chichester Harbour. Our guided Nature Discovery and Birdwatching trips offer a chance to see them from the water, whether you’re an experienced birdwatcher or simply curious to find out more.
Low Tide Specials on 31st October and during November focus on birds feeding across the exposed mudflats and saltmarshes. A local bird guide will help you spot different species and explain what makes these habitats so important.
On Sunday 29th November, from 12.15pm to 2.15pm, our High Tide Special offers another perspective. As the water rises, look out for shorebirds gathering on higher banks and islands, and perhaps flocks taking to the skies. Bring your binoculars, or borrow a pair on board, and see what the day brings.
Plan your autumn outing
Please dress warmly with plenty of layers – it always feels cooler on the water especially as autumn takes hold. You’re welcome to bring your own food and refreshments, but please leave any glass at home. Meet on the raised viewing platform outside the Harbour Office 15 minutes before departure.
Allow extra time for your journey: the closure of Stockbridge Road closure from 10th October for up to seven weeks means there is a diversion in place. Do check your route and the latest travel information before setting off.
Please always check your chosen trip for departure times, prices and the latest availability. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!