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Brownsea Island

Brownsea Island: Our most recommended tours and activities

Poole Harbor and Islands Cruise

1. Poole Harbor and Islands Cruise

Take a cruise around Europe's largest natural harbor, home to the town of Poole, the golden beaches of Sandbanks and Brownsea Island. From either open deck seating or comfortable saloon you will see stunning views of the exceptional landscape that surrounds it. Your 70 minute trip will start on charming Poole Quay with its old buildings and buzzing atmosphere.  Next you will go past Brownsea Island, home to wildlife and picturesque Brownsea Castle, built to protect against French invasions. After that comes the Sandbanks Peninsula and the luxurious houses of the ‘Golden Mile’. Then you will tour the great natural expanse of the harbor and the remaining islands: Green, Furzey, Long and Round. Fronting onto beautiful scenery it helped inspire classics like Lord of the Rings and Gulliver's Travel. 

From Poole: Round-trip Jurassic Coastal Cruise to Swanage

2. From Poole: Round-trip Jurassic Coastal Cruise to Swanage

Discover the impressive Jurassic Coast on a cruise through Dorset. See Round Island, marvel at the iconic chalk formations on the coast, and learn fascinating facts about the area from live commentary onboard. Begin your trip at Poole Harbour and board an open deck boat with seating and comfortable saloons. From here, start your journey through 185 million years of history along the Jurassic Coastline. As you cruise, pass some of Dorset's most famous landmarks. See the golden beaches of Sandbanks, Brownsea Island, and the Old Harry Rocks, named after a notorious pirate. Enjoy expert commentary from your captains as you glide by. Sail by Dorset's small islands, including Furzey, Long, Green, and Round Islands, as you make your way to Swanage. Once reaching Swanage, head back towards Poole and capture the perfect picture of the famous chalk formations from the boat's outer deck.

Poole Harbour Lights Cruise

3. Poole Harbour Lights Cruise

Experience a relaxing evening cruise around Poole Harbour. Sail from the Poole Quay around the harbor, close to Brownsea Island and its castle, and the luxurious properties on Sandbanks. Relax, unwind and watch the sun go down while you learn about the surrounding islands and more from your captain through their live commentary. While onboard, enjoy a drink from the fully licensed bar and take in the beautiful scenery of Europe’s largest natural Harbour before returning to Poole Quay where you can enjoy the rest of your evening in one of many great restaurants or bars.

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Other Sightseeing Options in Brownsea Island

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What people are saying about Brownsea Island

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 1,005 reviews

Easy to book online, kiosk was easy to find and parking nearby. Friendly staff on board, commentary was amusing and informative. The Fortuna was very clean and in good condition, a really lovely hour at sea with our 12 year old autistic son.

Lovely tour of the harbour and nearby islands. Lots of relevant information. Free hot drink and mince pie included.

Fantastic trip for minimal money. Great knowledgeable skipper guiding you around all the islands of the harbour

Really enjoyed the journey. The commentary was very knowledgeable. The crew was lovely and very helpful.

Great time out although the Red Boat Kiosk is no longer Red! Look forward City Cruises!