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With the longest coastline of any county in England, Kent naturally has a lot of things to do involving water. Here are Kent’s top 10 maritime activities.
The Historic Dockyard, Chatham
This maritime heritage destination takes visitors back in time to discover 400 years of naval history. Explore the Royal Dockyard museum and the new No. 1 Smithery, which exhibits previously unseen artifacts and touring art. Also, until Friday, September 30 see the Titanic Honour & Glory exhibition which recounts the story of the tragic liner and her sister ships.
South Foreland Lighthouse, St Margaret’s Bay near Dover
A distinctive landmark famous for its inspiring connection with the magnificent Dover White Cliffs. With a breathtaking two-mile country walk from the visitor centre along to the cliffs, the lighthouse provides outstanding views over the Channel. It was the first lighthouse powered by electricity and the site of the first international radio transmission.
Joss Bay Surf School, Broadstairs
The sandy beach at Joss Bay is a surfer’s paradise and is the home of the South East’s number one surf school offering lessons for people of all ages and abilities. Let the experienced instructors introduce you to the waves of the Kent coast for an exhilarating surfing experience.
Jet Skiing, Lydd, Romney Marsh
Ever dreamt of racing along the water at full speed with your adrenaline pumping? If so then visit Lydd’s purpose built 22-acre freshwater lake, Action Watersports, to take part in a thrilling jet ski expedition. Recognised as the South East’s premier watersports venue, beginners or competitors can take their own or hire one.
Samphire Hoe, Dover
Samphire Hoe is the newest part of Kent, made from 4.9 million cubic metres of chalk marl dug to create the Channel Tunnel. There is a variety of events on over the bank holiday weekend, starting with a Pirates and Smugglers Spooky Walk on Saturday, August 27 at 8pm. On Sunday, August 28 there will be an open day with a Samphire Hoe trail, creepy crawly creative activities and berry and chalk art. Then find out about insects at Minibeasts – Leapers and Creepers on Bank Holiday Monday. Greg McKenzie on www.mykent.co.uk said “This is a great place to go on either a nice day or a bad one. The landscape changes dramatically with the weather. Great for taking the kids and the dog.”
Horizon Sea Safaris, Ramsgate
Horizon Sea Safaris is a Ramsgate-based, family run business offering an experience you are unlikely to forget. In a purpose built 9m rigid inflatable boat (RIB) called Micki Dee Bee, enjoy a beaches and bays tour or Stour seal encounter, both lasting 60 minutes or a 90 minute trip to Thanet’s offshore wind farm.
Folkestone Triennial Tour
Folkestone Triennial is a three-yearly exhibition of contemporary artworks sited in coastal spaces throughout the harbour town. The tours are led by local experts and experienced curators. Triennial tours offer an informative family day out and allow visitors to become closer to the artworks and experience the local historical connection behind them.
www.folkestonetriennial.org.uk
Red Sands and Shivering Sands Sea Forts, Thames Estuary
These army forts off the coast of Whitstable were built in 1942 to provide anti-aircraft fire to protect the Thames Estuary. Formally known as the Maunsell Army Sea Forts, after their designer Guy Maunsell, they lay abandoned now but can still be seen on river trips. The 72 ton former pilot vessel X-Pilot is the only vessel you can actually board the forts from. There is no timetable as the trip is dependant on the weather and tide but if you call ahead on the day, the experience is well worth it.
Rock Doc Walk, Thanet
Learn the language of the rocks, chalk cliffs, flints and fossils on guided walks with the Rock Doc. There is at least one walk per month and all walks start at 11am, and last for one to two hours.
Join geologist Dr Alasdair Bruce as he reveals 80 million years of history and the hidden geological secrets of Pegwell Bay on Sunday, September 4. With a guided walk along the bay, visitors will explore some of Thanet’s most beautiful coastal features. Booking essential.
Land Yachting, Greatstone near Hythe
This is a truly green sport, with no noise, pollution or site damage, taking on the land as if it were the sea on a windsurfing board with wheels.
Why not have a go on this two mile stretch of beach, it’s a great place to be taught the basics. A land yachting taster is the perfect way to experience land sailing for the first time. It takes three hours and costs £65.
