Ready to set sail on an unforgettable boat trip? You don’t have to leave the country to find the perfect destination; the UK is packed with brilliant options.
From pootling along the canal to dinghy sailing, recreational boating in the UK is a popular pastime for many. Interest in boating rose during the pandemic, when staycations became the go-to holiday type. On top of this, concerns about the climate have resulted in many Brits choosing to stay put over travelling abroad.
As with any holiday, prep is essential. Have a check of the terms of your boat insurance before you set sail. Be sure to plan your route around the weather too – this is critical to you making it out on the water.
Need ideas on where to go? These spots deserve a place on your bucket list.
Jurassic Coast
Dorset is one of the nation’s most popular seaside counties thanks to the iconic limestone arch of Durdle Door and the breathtaking Lulworth Cove. The latter is a horseshoe-shaped bay that’s a must for visitors. A boating trip here means you can enjoy these iconic sites and the rest of the geologically unique coastline from a whole new angle.
Dorset is particularly famous for having hosted the sailing competitions for the 2012 Olympic Games. You can sail in a dinghy, have a go at crewing a tall ship or even charter a yacht – the choices are endless. There’s always the option to hop onto a powerboat too if you’d prefer to gather a little more speed.
Lake Windermere
Nestled in the Lake District, Lake Windermere is England’s largest lake. This means that the boating possibilities are endless. You can jump on a cruise, hire a motorboat or go sailing – either way, both beginners and experienced individuals can make the most of this magnificent body of water.
There are several sailing centres and marinas here, so you’ll have plenty of experts and the right equipment available to use. You’ll have the chance to spot plenty of wildlife, from red kites to peregrine falcons. The nearby Grizedale Forest and Gummer’s How offer more exploration on land.
Cornwall
There’s a reason so many iconic British shows, from Doc Martin to Poldark, have been filmed here. The Cornish coastline allows you to soak up the beauty of surrounding beaches in a whole new way.
Padstow is a popular spot for people to launch their boats. Plus, you can polish off a portion of fish and chips or a giant pasty after a trip out at sea. Meanwhile, starting at Falmouth harbour and continuing towards the Fowey estuary is the ideal route for witnessing the so-called Cornish Riveria in all its glory.
