Portland Harbour (Weymouth)

About this spot

Portland Harbour, between Weymouth and the Isle of Portland, is one of the largest man-made harbours in the world. It is protected on the west by Chesil Beach — a long shingle barrier — and on the east by breakwaters, so the open Channel swell stays outside. The result is a big area of flat to slightly choppy water that has hosted national events and speed records. Most riders launch from the Portland / Osprey Quay side or the Hamm Beach area by Chesil.

The south-westerly — the UK's prevailing wind — blows across Chesil into the harbour and is the classic flat-water direction; W and S also work. Northerly and north-easterly winds blow off the land and away from the launch towards the breakwaters, and are gusty — treat them as dangerous. The harbour is a working port: ferries, naval and commercial vessels, moorings and a sailing academy all share the water, and there are restricted zones you must keep out of. Tidal range is moderate (about 2 m), but water depth varies and there are shallow areas, weed and old structures.

Kite schools, a large sailing centre, shops and cafés are in Portland and Weymouth; there is pay parking near the launch areas. Good for beginners with a school as well as for freestyle and speed riders. Water is cool most of the year — a 4/3 or 5/4 suit is normal outside summer.