Brightlingsea Harbour is a small mixed leisure and commercial port with a rich heritage, situated in Brightlingsea Creek close to the mouth of the Colne Estuary where it meets the Blackwater and Thames Estuaries. The Harbour is within a nature conservation area of international importance. The River Colne is navigable on the tide for 7 miles to Colchester in Essex and the River Blackwater is navigable for 11 miles to Maldon. Brightlingsea is a day sail from most ports on the Thames Estuary. Brightlingsea Harbour is a Trust Port managed by Brightlingsea Harbour Commissioners. For further details on how to find us, please see Contact Us page.

The Harbour Master leads a dedicated team of permanent and seasonal staff who oversee the day to day activities within the Harbour.

The Harbour provides a total of about 500 berths and moorings and welcomes many visiting boats, which can number 100 on a busy weekend. Boats of up to 50 feet (15m) and 8 feet (2.5m) draft can be accommodated and a warm welcome awaits all. Facilities at Brightlingsea Harbour have steadily been upgraded over recent years and details of these can be found on the Facilities & Services page.

Use the links on the menu above to access further information about Brightlingsea Harbour, including details of the Foot and Cycle Ferry service from Brightlingsea, useful information for visitors and what you can find to do in the surrounding area.

If you cannot find the information you require, please check the FAQ section or alternatively feel free to contact us.

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