Portland Harbour is a massive man-made harbour protected by a breakwater. It works on any wind direction and is fully enclosed, making it the safest place in the UK to learn or blast speed runs. It hosted the 2012 Olympic sailing events and remains a world-class training ground.
Detailed Wind & Conditions Chart
| Month | Wind Probability | Avg Wind Speed | Wind Direction | Wetsuit | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep - Nov | 80% (Best) | 18-25 kts | SW / W (Cleanest) | 4/3mm | Flat/Chop |
| Dec - Mar | 70% | 20-30 kts | Storms | 5/4mm + Hood | Strong |
| Apr - Jun | 60% | 15-20 kts | Mixed | 4/3mm | Flat |
| Jul - Aug | 50% | 12-18 kts | Sea Breeze | 3/2mm | Light |
Data compiled from Bigsalty and Windfinder historical records.
Primary Spots
The OTC (Official Test Centre)
The main hub for wingfoiling. You launch from a concrete ramp directly into deep water, meaning no "foil walk of shame" over shallow rocks. The area immediately in front of the centre is designated for windsurfing and winging.
Hamm Beach
Located at the eastern end of the causeway. It offers a shallow, sandy start. Restriction: There is a seasonal exclusion zone (June-September) marked by yellow buoys to protect swimmers. Do not foil inside this zone.
The Speed Strip
Along Chesil Beach (the western edge). In a SW or W wind, the water here is butter flat while the wind is clean. This is where speed records are set. It is a 500m run of pure adrenaline.
Alternative Spots Nearby
Weymouth Bay
Located on the other side of the town.
- Conditions: Open sea conditions. Works well in Easterly winds (which are offshore in the harbour).
- Vibe: Traditional seaside town beach.
Kimmeridge Bay
A 40-minute drive east.
- Level: Expert Only.
- Conditions: World-class wave riding spot in strong SW winds. The "K-Bay" wave wraps around the ledge.
- Warning: Shallow reef and difficult launch. Do not go here unless you are confident in waves.
Best Time to Visit
Autumn (Sept-Nov): The most reliable season. The water is still relatively warm (15°C), and the Atlantic depressions bring consistent SW winds. Winter: Excellent wind stats but cold. You need a quality winter wetsuit.
Permits & Fees (CRITICAL)
Portland Harbour is privately owned, and permits are mandatory for all water users.
- Cost: Daily permits are approx £5-10. Annual permits are available.
- Where to Buy: Online via Portland Port or in person at The OTC.
- Insurance: The permit acts as proof of 3rd party insurance, which is required.
Gear Strategy
Board: A standard 90-110L board works well here. The water is flat, so you don't need a wave board. Foil: You can use any mast length (75-90cm) as the harbour is deep.
Accommodation & Dining
Accommodation
- Crabbers’ Wharf: Self-catering apartments right on the water at Castletown. Visit Crabbers’ Wharf
- Portland YMCA: Budget-friendly bunk rooms at the outdoor centre. Visit YMCA
- The Aqua: Hotel and cafe near Castletown.
Dining
- Billy Winter’s: A beach bar/diner right on the harbour. Famous for fish tacos and sunset drinks.
- The Boat That Rocks: Bar and restaurant at Portland Marina.
- Quiddles: Cafe on Chesil Beach.
Schools & Rentals
Full-Service Centers
- The OTC: The UK's biggest foil center. They stock almost every brand (Duotone, Armstrong, Cabrinha) to test. They offer RYA wingfoiling courses from beginner to advanced. Visit The OTC
- 109 Watersports: Shop and school located in Weymouth, servicing the harbour. Visit 109
Travel Logistics
Getting There:
- Drive: 3 hours from London via M3/M27.
- Train: London Waterloo to Weymouth (2h 45m), then a 15-min taxi or bus to Portland.
Parking:
- OTC/WPNSA: Large car park. Paid via ANPR camera (approx £10/day).
- Hamm Beach: Council car park (pay and display).
Local Rules & Etiquette
- Shipping Channel: Do not obstruct the main shipping channel. Large naval vessels and commercial ships use the port.
- Harbour Entrance: Do not go out of the harbour entrances into the open sea. The tidal race (Portland Race) is extremely dangerous with currents up to 7 knots.
- Kite Zone: Kitesurfers usually stick to the Hamm Beach area. Wingers have more freedom but should respect their zone.
Resources
- Heights Hotel Webcam - View over Chesil Beach and Harbour
- Portland Port - Permits and harbour rules
- Bigsalty Weather - Local forecast
- WPNSA - National Sailing Academy info