Poole’s boat tours pack serious bang for your buck, offering some of Britain’s best coastal views. The standout choice is the 1-hour Poole Harbour and Island Cruise – perfect for first-timers who want to explore Europe’s largest natural harbor. I love the evening Lights Cruise, which transforms the harbor into a magical seascape as day turns to dusk.
For serious sightseers, the 2-hour Jurassic Coastal Cruise to Swanage delivers dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches, while the 5-hour Harbor and Islands tour provides the most comprehensive experience. Self-guided boat rentals work well for independent travelers who prefer setting their own course.
Let’s examine the top boat tours in detail.
Key Points
- Poole Harbour and Island Cruises offer a highly rated 1-hour 10-minute tour of Europe’s largest natural harbor, with a 4.8/5 rating and 96% traveler recommendation.
- Poole Harbour Lights Cruise provides a 1.5-hour evening cruise showcasing the illuminated landmarks of Poole Harbour, with picturesque views at dusk.
- Jurassic Coastal Cruises offer a 2-hour round-trip cruise from Poole to Swanage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with knowledgeable captains and scenic views.
- Poole Harbor and Islands Cruise is a 5-hour tour that explores Poole Harbor and surrounding islands, providing an immersive coastal experience with insightful commentary.
- Boat Rentals in Poole Harbour offer a top-rated 5.0-star rental option, allowing for flexible exploration of the harbor with safety equipment and a fuel-included package.
Poole Harbour and Island Cruise From Poole
The Poole Harbour and Island Cruise departs from Poole, England, offering visitors a chance to explore Europe’s largest natural harbor.
Rated 4.8/5 based on 365 reviews and with a 96% traveler recommendation, the cruise takes passengers on a journey around Sandbanks, Brownsea Island, and the Blue Lagoon.
The live commentary from the knowledgeable captain provides insights into the history and geology of the region.
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes and includes an onboard bar for snacks and hot drinks.
With a maximum of 40 travelers per tour, this activity is a popular and enjoyable experience for families and visitors to Poole.
Read our full review: Poole Harbour and Island Cruise From Poole Review
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Poole Harbour Lights Cruise
Poole Harbour Lights Cruise offers visitors a captivating evening experience on the waters of Europe’s largest natural harbor.
This 1.5-hour cruise showcases the picturesque landmarks of Poole Harbour, including Brownsea Island and the iconic Sandbanks peninsula, as they’re illuminated by the glow of dusk.
Passengers can admire the charming waterfront towns and enjoy the serene ambiance from the comfort of a modern boat.
With a 5-star rating and positive reviews, this tour provides an enchanting way to experience Poole after dark.
At Kč 456 per person, the Poole Harbour Lights Cruise is a budget-friendly option for those seeking a memorable evening on the water.
Read our full review: Poole Harbour Lights Cruise Review
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Jurassic Coastal Cruise From Poole
Cruising the Jurassic Coast from Poole offers a captivating way to witness the UNESCO-listed natural wonder. The 2-hour round-trip cruise takes passengers from Poole Quay to Swanage, showcasing landmarks like Old Harry Rocks, Studland Bay, and Brownsea Island.
The knowledgeable captain provides insightful commentary on the area’s geology and history. While the sound system could use improvement, the scenic views and helpful crew make for an enjoyable experience.
With departures at 10:30am, 1pm, and 3:45pm, the cruise is accessible to most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly. The Jurassic Coastal Cruise is a fun and informative activity that allows visitors to explore the stunning Dorset coastline from the water.
Read our full review: Jurassic Coastal Cruise From Poole Review
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Poole Harbor and Islands Cruise
A captivating way to explore the picturesque Poole Harbor and its surrounding islands is the Poole Harbor and Islands Cruise.
This 5-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through the serene waters, offering stunning views of the Jurassic Coast, Brownsea Island, and the Old Harry Rocks.
With a rating of 5 out of 5 from 11 reviews, the small-group tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide insightful commentary about the area’s rich history and natural beauty.
Priced at $94.91 per person, the Poole Harbor and Islands Cruise promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy the region’s coastal splendor.
Read our full review: Poole Harbor and Islands Cruise Review
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Boat Rental in Poole Harbour
Exploring Poole Harbour by boat offers a unique and flexible way to discover the area’s natural beauty.
With a 5.0-star rating from over 11 reviews, the Boat Rental in Poole Harbour is a top-rated option for visitors. The rental includes all necessary safety equipment, fuel, and a comprehensive safety briefing.
Located at the top of B Pontoon in front of the Marina Office, the rental is conveniently situated and easily accessible.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the rental welcomes service animals, infants, and even dogs, making it a family-friendly activity.
At $193.44 per group of up to 6 people, the rental provides great value and the freedom to explore Poole Harbour at your own pace.
Read our full review: Boat Rental in Poole Harbour Review
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From Poole: Round-trip Jurassic Coastal Cruise to Swanage
For those seeking a scenic coastal adventure, the round-trip Jurassic Coastal Cruise from Poole to Swanage offers an ideal excursion.
Departing from Poole Harbour, the cruise takes passengers along the dramatic Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning geological formations.
Throughout the journey, travelers can marvel at the towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and quaint seaside villages that dot the landscape.
The cruise reaches the charming town of Swanage, where passengers have the opportunity to disembark and explore the area before returning to Poole.
This picturesque voyage provides a delightful way to experience the natural beauty of Dorset’s coastline.
Read our full review: From Poole: Round-trip Jurassic Coastal Cruise to Swanage Review
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Poole: Harbor Dinner Cruise With Traditional Fish and Chips
While exploring Poole’s vibrant harbor, visitors can embark on a delightful dinner cruise that showcases the area’s renowned fish and chips.
The 1-day tour lasts approximately 6 hours, allowing ample time to savor the scenic views and local cuisine. With a 4.9 rating from 598 reviews, this popular activity is priced at $37.96 per person.
Travelers can expect a small group experience and a knowledgeable guide to provide insights throughout the journey. For those seeking an immersive culinary experience set against Poole’s picturesque backdrop, this harbor dinner cruise is a must-try.
Read our full review: Poole: Harbor Dinner Cruise With Traditional Fish and Chips Review
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Recap
Poole offers a variety of cruises and boat tours to explore its stunning harbor and coastline. From scenic harbor cruises to dinner cruises and sightseeing trips, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, history, or just enjoying the views, Poole’s waterways provide an excellent way to experience the area. With reliable operators and comfortable vessels, these tours are a great way to make the most of your time in this picturesque coastal town.