Being a Dorset local and scouring local papers and websites for things to do doesn’t always find the little gems that are extra special.
Last year whilst watching a local B&B Urban Beach on the popular series “Four in a Bed” we were introduced to Poole Sea Safari and immediately wanted to try it. Sadly we didn’t get the opportunity then, but with Fathers Day approaching fast I decided to book a trip for hubby and Kian as a present.
Poole harbour is the second largest natural harbour in the world and is also the start of the world famous Jurassic coastline. This Sea Safari not only gives you a 90 min harbour and coastline tour of wildlife, geology and history but is billed as a visual and audio treat for all ages using a purpose built RIB speed boat, so that you get the maximum enjoyment from every trip.
For safety and comfort the boys were provided with life jackets and waterproofs – I think you will agree that they look rather fetching.
As the boys arrived in plenty of time they managed to secure seats at the front of the RIB speedboat and I haven’t heard the end of how wonderful it was!
The tour started in Poole harbour, past Brownsea Island and millionaires row on the Sandbanks Peninsula, past the Chain Ferry and on through National Trust’s Studland Bay and onto Old Harry’s Rocks.
The Poole Sea Safari RIB is equipped with a stereo and full PA system which was used for an informative guided commentary of all the sights. A great way to learn about the history of our coastline in a fun way!
The tour continued on past Ballard Down, Swanage Bay and on over the Peveril Ledges on to Durlston Park, Tilly Whim Caves, Anvil Point and finally the Dancing Ledges, where the boat stopped and everyone changed seats to get a different experience of the boat.
Poole Sea Safari |
What really surprised me was the range of wildlife that they saw. Disappointingly they didn’t spot our local Dolphin pod, but they did see a huge range of birds including Guillemots and Puffins who were nesting on the cliffs.
The other thing that really caught their eye was a number of people who were Coasteering – climbing the cliffs, exploring caves and jumping in the water………that is next on their list to try.
The rest of the guests aboard the boat had come from London and were surprised at how friendly everyone was………people waving from other boats and from the shore. It was 90 minutes of fun and after exploring the cliffs on the way back the skipper opened up the boat and threw it around for a more exhilarating ride!
The only disappointing part of the excursion was the fact it didn’t go out as far as Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, but at 90 minutes they would not have time!
Poole Sea Safari is great for a family fun day out, or as an adult group. The minimum age to take part is 6 years old (1.1 metres tall) and they cannot take out pregnant ladies. Both boys found the trip to be physically tiring as you sit on a bench type seat with a handle to hold onto and are bouncing around, especially if it gets a bit choppy.
Kian preferred being at the front of the boat as it was more fun and you could see the waves approaching and prepare for them, but the overall experience is one they keep talking about and are keen to repeat. In fact hubby now wants his own boat…….maybe one day!
For more information, news and special offers check out their facebook page or follow them on twitter at @PooleSeaSafari – I cannot wait to go out myself once I am fully recovered from my caesarian!
What a great post Kara, the Poole Sea Safari looks brilliant. Looks like Daddy and Kian had an awesome time. I’ve not been to Poole since I got stuck in a car on the beach with the tide coming in years ago! Fabulous place 🙂
Wow that looks like a great local adventure. My kids adore the speed boat rides from Padstow harbour but they are all over in about 15 minutes. 90 minutes sound amazing and all those places to visit. I love that you managed to capture the scenes and wildlife along the way and your lad looks thrilled to be at the wheel there. Thank you for sharing on Country Kids.
This looks fab! Your pictures are stunning and looks like everyone had a good time x
I did a trip like this in Skye with my hubby and it was amazing. I can’t wait when my wee man is a bit older to give something like this a go. Getting out and seeing wildlife on the water is uber cool!