Sovereign Harbour is a development of the beachlands east of Eastbourne formally known as the Crumbles. The marina consists of several harbours, a business park and housing projects with both permanent and holiday properties. The marina is operated by Premier Marinas, and offers excellent facilities for the passing yachtsman.

Most yachtsmen and motorboaters passing up and down the Channel tend to make passage outside of the Royal Sovereign shoals. A visit to this harbour would involve a slight detour, passing inside of the shoals. Approach and entry are straightforward by day or night and boats of up to 22 m can be handled. Strangers should probably give it a miss in heavy blows from ENE to ESE as entrance is via a dredged channel through the shallows, which can kick up very rough in these circumstances. Once inside and through the locks the shelter is perfect. ... read more

Approaches to Sovereign Harbour are relatively straightforward. From the West the town of Eastbourne will clearly be seen, and it's simply a matter of maintaining a good offing. Locate and identify the Martello tower just to the west of the outer entrance. This is equipped with a very bright light (Fl(3)15s) that can be seen in daylight.

Likewise from the East maintain a good distance from the shore, and pass inside the Royal Sovereign shoals. Identify the Martello tower mentioned above, and in both cases make your approach to the harbour with the entrance bearing west.

The dredged channel leading into the outer harbour is clearly marked, with it's beginning marked by a white and red striped fairway buoy (LFl.10s). This lies less than half a mile ENE from the outer entrance. The approach inwards from here is  marked by two green conical buoys (lit), which should be left on your starboard hand side.

Further Pilotage Details... ... read more

While you are waiting in the lock, the lock keepers will allocate you a berth. It's simply a matter of following their directions when you emerge and tying your boat up on their nice new pontoons.

There are no tidal streams to worry about inside the Marina, and ample space for manoeuvring. Visitors are invariably berthed within the Inner Harbour.. the South Harbour, the West Harbour and the massive North Harbour are the domain of residents.

Visitors Mooring Fees... ... read more