Brighton: Sailing Trip with Drinks

If you’re visiting Brighton and craving a maritime adventure, this 2-hour sailing trip might catch your eye. For around $87.55 per person, you get to explore the Sussex coast, enjoy a glass of sparkling wine, and even get hands-on with sailing if you wish. The route takes you along Brighton’s iconic shoreline and possibly into the English Channel, depending on weather conditions. Guides are RYA trained skippers, ensuring safety and expertise during your trip.

Two things truly stand out about this experience. First, the stunning views of Brighton’s skyline and the Sussex coast are practically guaranteed. The sail provides a peaceful, scenic escape from the hustle and bustle. Second, the opportunity to participate actively—whether taking the helm or trimming the sails—adds a layer of engagement many other tours lack. However, it’s worth noting that weather can be unpredictable, and some trips might get canceled if winds are too high, which happened to one traveler.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic coastal views but also appreciate some relaxation with a drink in hand. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a blend of adventure and leisure, especially if they’re interested in sailing but aren’t necessarily seasoned sailors. Families with children over 10 and nature lovers keen on spotting dolphins will likely find this a memorable outing.

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Views: Enjoy Brighton’s skyline and stunning Sussex coastline.
• Active or Relaxed: Take the helm or sit back and relax in the cockpit.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life.
• Expert Guidance: Skippers are trained by the RYA for safety and expertise.
• Weather Dependence: Trips may get canceled due to high winds or poor conditions.
• Includes Drinks: A glass of sparkling wine is part of the experience, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Brighton Sailing Trip

The Brighton Sailing Trip kicks off at Pontoon 5 on the West Jetty of Brighton Marina. Accessing the boat involves ringing a gate with a sign for pontoons 5 and 6—easy enough, but worth noting if you’re unfamiliar with the marina layout. Once aboard, the boat offers a cozy yet open environment where you can take in the breathtaking views of Brighton’s skyline and the rolling Sussex coast.

The route typically involves sailing along Brighton’s coast, which offers a fantastic backdrop of colorful seaside architecture, bustling piers, and the distant outline of the South Downs. Depending on weather conditions and the skipper’s judgment, the trip might venture into the English Channel for a taste of open-water sailing. Such moments are where you’ll feel the true thrill of being at sea, with the waves beneath you and the sky overhead.

Participation is optional but encouraged. We loved the way the skipper invited us to take the helm—a rare chance for non-sailors to get a feel for steering a boat. Trimming the sails was another activity that gave us a real sense of what sailors do to catch the wind. For those who prefer to relax, plenty of comfortable seating and shady spots are available. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and leisure, making it suitable for both active travelers and those who just want to unwind.

The highlight for many is the included sparkling wine. It’s a small touch that elevates the experience—toast the coastline and the sea while sipping bubbly, all with a backdrop of shimmering water and blue sky. Keep in mind, some reviews hint at inconsistent service with drinks; for example, one traveler mentioned not receiving the bubbly they expected. Still, the general vibe is one of celebration and relaxation.

Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy trying to spot dolphins or seabirds during the cruise. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the natural environment around Brighton is rich with marine life, and the experienced skippers know where to look.

The Practicalities

The duration is about two hours, which flies by amid the gentle sway of the boat and the panoramic views. Start times vary, so checking availability in advance is advised. The meeting point is straightforward: just ring the gate at Brighton Marina, and the crew will welcome you aboard. The trip ends back at the same spot, making it convenient for those planning to continue exploring Brighton.

Safety is a priority, with safety equipment provided, including slim fit life jackets. The crew is RYA trained, giving confidence that even if the weather isn’t perfect, your safety remains paramount.

The cost of $87.55 per person reflects a well-rounded experience that combines scenery, a bit of adventure, and some leisure. While some reviews mention the price as a tad steep or that they expected more drinks, most agree the trip offers good value for the scenic and participatory aspects.

What We Like and What to Watch Out For

We appreciated the knowledge and professionalism of the skippers, which turned what could be an average boat ride into a memorable, engaging experience. The views of Brighton’s coast are simply spectacular, especially if the weather cooperates. The option to get involved in sailing adds an authentic touch that we found worthwhile, especially for those interested in maritime activities.

That said, the weather can be a concern. As one review pointed out, high winds can lead to cancellations, which can be disappointing if you’ve set your sights on this trip. It’s wise to have a flexible schedule or backup plans in case your chosen date gets canceled.

This tour probably isn’t suitable for children under 10 or for pregnant women over 20 weeks, reflecting safety considerations. Plus, those seeking a more extensive or luxurious experience may find this a bit brief or basic, but for a short, scenic escape, it hits the spot.

Who Would Love This Experience?

Travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, coastal scenery, and a touch of adventure will find this sailing trip appealing. It’s especially good for those interested in sailing, or anyone looking to celebrate with a drink while watching the sunset over the English Channel. Nature and wildlife lovers will appreciate the chance to spot dolphins and seabirds, provided the weather is kind.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic cruise with a bit of hands-on fun and a friendly crew, this is a solid choice. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast, and be prepared for the possibility of cancellations if conditions are too rough.

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FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 10 are not recommended, as the tour involves sailing activities that may not be suitable for very young kids.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. A hat and sunscreen are advisable in sunny weather. The crew provides safety equipment and some drinks, but you might want to bring your own if you have specific preferences.

Can I participate actively in sailing?
Yes, you can take the helm or help trim the sails if you wish. It’s designed to be interactive, but also flexible if you prefer just to relax.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Trips can be canceled due to high winds or unsafe conditions. In such cases, you’ll receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

How long is the trip?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, with start times varying. Check availability and confirm your preferred time.

Is the experience good value for the price?
Most find the combination of scenery, the chance to participate, and the included drink makes it a reasonable value. Keep in mind that some reviews mention the cost felt a bit high relative to what was received; this is subjective.

What safety measures are in place?
Safety is prioritized, with safety equipment including slim fit life jackets provided, and the skippers are trained by the RYA.

To sum it up, this Brighton sailing trip offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, light adventure, and social relaxation. It’s best suited for those who enjoy being near the water, savoring good views, and trying their hand at sailing. While weather can be unpredictable, with proper planning and a flexible attitude, it promises a memorable maritime escape with a splash of bubbly to celebrate the day.

You can check availability for your dates here: