Portishead Docks were once used for servicing adjacent power stations, but with the closure of these a Marina has been built within the locked dock. This is a fairly recent development having been commenced in 2000.

Portishead Marina is now fully established and is strategically important spot for those intending to push on up the River Avon to Bristol, or up the Severn to Sharpness. Due to the extremely tidal nature of the area it has always been very important for small craft to find somewhere safe to await the correct tidal conditions before proceeding to these two places. The Marina now provides this, beforehand the only option was an extremely exposed anchorage. Full Marina services including fuel are available. ... read more

If approaching from the West the yachtsman or motorboater needs to be acutely aware of shipping approaching Avonmouth, Royal Portbury Docks or heading for The Avon (or vice versa). It is mandatory to keep listening watch on VHF channel 12 for Bristol VTS. Inward bound commercial vessels report when passing the English and Welsh Grounds fairway buoy (EW Grounds on the larger chart), and the Welsh Hook Buoy. Outward Bound ships report when leaving Avonmouth or Portbury docks, when passing Shirehampton (vessels leaving the River Avon), and when passing Lower Shoots Beacon (vessels leaving Sharpness).

Pilotage Directions...

The Portishead Cruising Club produces a very useful guide available here, you will have to locate the pilotage guide from the menu at the side: ... read more

Marina staff will give you berthing instructions as you pass through the lock. Prices here work out at £1.65 per metre per night, with a minimum fee of £16.50 are. The minimum fee is to cover the lock operation, and the same price applies to short stays.

In the days before the Marina small craft waiting for a suitable tide would have to anchor in Portishead Pool to the north-east of Portishead Pier, in depths of around 3 m. This option is still available but not recommended. Note on the chart the areas bounded by the pecked lines, any anchoring must be done within these limits.

The Anchorage is very exposed and can be dangerous in strong winds from anywhere other than offshore, add to that the fierce tides and shipping, it is unlikely your experience will be a pleasant one. Call Bristol VTS for advice on VHF channel 12 if you plan to anchor here. The authorities recommend you use the Marina. ... read more