Brownsea Island

The National Trust manages Brownsea as a protected island nature reserve known for red squirrels, woodland, heath and harbour views.

Private boats, kayaks and paddleboards are welcome to land only along the South Shore. The National Trust states that there is no landing along the North Shore or sea wall because of nesting birds, and no private landing at the National Trust pier for safety.

Brownsea is a landing destination rather than a marina. Skippers must make their own safe anchoring/mooring arrangements in accordance with current harbour rules and then use only permitted landing areas.

The island has visitor reception, caf facilities, toilets and visitor services during opening periods. Passenger ferries also operate from Poole Quay.

Brownsea offers walking, wildlife watching and harbour views. The National Trusts current visitor information should be checked for opening times, admission and seasonal arrangements before landing.

Crews wanting to add a genuine shore excursion and nature stop to a Poole Harbour day.

Anyone expecting marina facilities, unrestricted landing around the island or access outside current National Trust opening arrangements.

Sandbanks lies east at the harbour entrance, Poole Quay to the north-east and the quieter western harbour toward Arne and the Wareham Channel.

Land on the South Shore only. Do not use the National Trust pier for private landing, and respect the no-landing North Shore and sea-wall restrictions.

Landing rules and visitor information were checked against the National Trusts current Brownsea Island guidance, with wider navigation context from PHC.

Navigate under current PHC guidance and select a safe, lawful anchoring or mooring arrangement outside channels.

Private craft may land on Brownseas South Shore only; do not use the National Trust passenger pier, North Shore or sea wall.

The National Trust permits private-craft landing while the island is open, up to 20:00 or dusk if earlier; recheck current restrictions.

Protected no-landing areas on the North Shore and sea wall.

Passenger ferry operations at the National Trust pier.

Shallow water and channels around the island require current charted navigation.

Check National Trust opening information and current PHC harbour guidance before planning a private-boat landing.

The coordinate marks South Shore Lodge/orientation for the permitted private-craft side; it is not the prohibited passenger pier and does not establish an anchorage or mooring.

Use current charts, Poole Harbour Commissioners information and current Notices to Mariners when selecting an anchorage. Do not assume a precise depth or draught limit, guaranteed availability, overnight permission or landing right.

Pottery Pier, on the western side of Brownsea Island, is a well-known anchoring area, but conditions and suitability depend on wind, tide, vessel draught and current harbour and navigation conditions.

Other anchorages and mooring possibilities exist around Brownsea and elsewhere in Poole Harbour. Much of the water around Brownsea is shallow, the bottom can be soft or muddy, and appropriate tidal planning is essential.

Brownsea is the rare harbour landmark that deserves to become the destination. The attraction for a cruising crew is not complicated: secure the boat properly, respect the landing rules and go ashore for a few hours. It changes the character of a Poole stop completely.

Use the latest Poole Harbour Commissioners Harbour Guide, Local Notices to Mariners, shipping movements, tide information and marina instructions before arrival.

Private craft may land on Brownsea Islands South Shore only; the North Shore, sea wall and National Trust pier are not private-craft landing points.