Weymouth bay has always been a refuge for ships sheltering from westerly storms, being naturally protected by the bulk of The Isle Of Portland and this protection was greatly enhanced by the building of two huge breakwaters between Portland and Weymouth, creating Portland harbour which served the Royal Navy well for over a hundred years.
Portland Harbour has always been a refuge for ships sheltering from westerly storms, being naturally protected by the bulk of The Isle Of Portland and this protection was greatly enhanced by the building of two huge breakwaters between Portland and Weymouth, creating Portland harbour which served the Royal Navy well for over a hundred years.
Since the Navy left in the 1960s the dock facilities have been operated by private companies which still service and maintain Royal Navy ships as well as private and commercial vessels.
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Osprey Quay, on the west side of the harbour, now houses the National Sailing Academy which is undergoing considerable extensions prior to hosting the 2012 Olympic sailing events.
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Portland Bill Lighthouse
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There’s plenty to see and do at the end of the island too, the very southern tip is the site of the famous Portland Bill Lighthouse and it’s there to protect shipping from the hazardous coast.
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National Coastwatch Institution
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Locally this organisation mans a Coastal Lookout Station close to Portland Bill Lighthouse and is in operation during daylight hours for 365 days of the year. This takes up the time of over 60 volunteers and is run on a charitable basis being totally self funding. Click here to visit their website and learn more.
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Station Manager, Geoff Peters, says “All donations are welcome and put to good use ensuring the safety of all who enjoy this fantastic coastal area.”
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Naturally, the hazardous coast is a great attraction on warmer calm days, you can go up the lighthouse, walk along the coastal path, search for fossils and see some of the islands many beach hut communities.