About

We offer a range of boat trips departing from Brightlingsea:

Pub Lunch River Cruise (Brightlingsea - Wivenhoe) 
Find out more information, dates and times here. 

Harbour Tours
If you are short for time and you want to take a closer look at the yachts and power boats moored within our harbour why not take advantage and book a harbour tour. The ferry takes you around Cindery island which is a salt marsh and is home to many local birds and wildlife, you may even be lucky enough to spot our residential seal or If tides are right you could even pass one or our frequent commercial 90 metre cargo ships.

Ferry trips across to East Mersea and Point Clear.   

Close to the mouth of the Colne Estuary where it meets the Blackwater and Thames Estuaries you will find Brightlingsea, an historic cinque port rich in heritage.  As well as the cultural aspect, Brightlingsea is an exciting, fun place to explore no matter what your age is; whether it be an afternoon crabbing, a day at our very own Lido, a ramble along the beach taking in the stunning views or simply a nice lunch in one of our many delightful eateries. Our Harbour ferry provides not only a means of crossing the creek but opens up opportunities to explore the local area and attractions. Use of the ferry greatly reduces road miles – typically a round trip by road between Brightlingsea and St Osyth is 20 miles but takes just 3 minutes on the ferry. The round trip by road to East Mersea is 40 miles, but only takes approximately 9 minutes by ferry.

East Mersea & Beyond
Explore Cudmore Grove Country Park by foot or why not take your bike and admire the coastline. Take the opportunity to not only explore East Mersea but the rest of the island itself. Cudmore Grove Country Park has an excellent coastal themed play area which will keep the younger visitors entertained for hours, or maybe take a walk along the numerous zig zagging paths across the park. Alternatively, if you would like to go further afield why not enjoy the various pubs, café and eateries such as afternoon tea and locally brewed beer at Mersea Island vineyard or indulge in the locally caught oysters at Seafood at Dawn, seafood restaurant.

Brightlingsea Harbour accepts credit cards (no fee). Other amenities are available in Brightlingsea and the harbour office can pass on details.