Penzance Harbour consists of an inner drying area, and a wet basin accessed through a gate only open for 3 hours or so each high water. Once inside boats can lay in complete safety at reasonable rates. The wet dock can be used to leave your boat unattended for a few days to go exploring ashore if bad weather delays your plans.

As the depths of water around the harbour area are shallow, in strong onshore winds the seas get very rough, breaking over the harbour wall. Obviously in these conditions Penzance cannot be classed as a harbour of refuge, and should not be approached. Newlyn provides the only alternative in the Mounts Bay area in these conditions, and even then it is wise to wait until high water before attempting entry.

Penzance town itself is by far the largest in the area and is rather colourful and full of character. It is a busy market town as well as being a popular tourist centre, and all provisioning needs can be met, together with good transport links.

There are recent plans afoot for a 200 berth marina in Penzance with all tide access, as well as MDL proposing another 195 berth marina nearby at Port Penlee, between Newlyn and Mousehole. At present the area is devoid of marinas and bling boating, some would say it would be a shame to change that. The credit crunch will probably ensure some of these lofty ideas don't come to completion. ... read more

If approaching from the East the visiting yachtsman or motorboater will need to go south of the South Cardinal Mountamopus Buoy YB  (Q(6)+LFl 15s). This marks a 1.8 m Shoal, and you will see St Michael's Mount on the starboard bow. Penzance can be located by the conspicuous tower of St Mary's Church. By night the white sector of the light (sectored light, Fl WR 5s) on Penzance harbour South Pier will show you the safe sector of approach.

Further Pilotage Details...

If approaching from the South take note of Gear Rock Beacon, an isolated danger mark, red and black with two black spheres as a topmark (Fl your (2) 10s). This should be left well to port, while aiming for a position to the east of the lighthouse at the end of the South Pier. Again, the white sector of the South Pier light shows the safe approach. ... read more

As you enter the wet dock you will be allocated a berth by the harbour master or his assistant. In the busy summer months you may well have to raft up, and the charges are £1.75 per metre per day and you get every third day free providing someone remains on the boat, and special weekly rates for unattended boats. This makes Penzance an attractive option should you need to leave your boat. ... read more