Dorset Jurassic Coast Cruises – Coastal Mile Building Adventure

Part of our Mile Building Sailing Trips series.

Coastal mile building along the spectacular Dorset Jurassic Coast.

Build Miles and Master Coastal Navigation

Our Dorset Jurassic Coast Cruises blend scenic coastal sailing with hands-on learning. Sail from Southampton or Hamble along England’s most beautiful shoreline – past the Needles, Studland Bay and maybe out to Portland Bill – while practising tidal navigation, pilotage and passage planning in real conditions.

Ideal for those who have completed Day Skipper and want to gain confidence before longer offshore voyages, these trips combine relaxed cruising with skill development under the guidance of an experienced instructor.

Sailing past Durdle Door – a highlight of the Jurassic Coast route.

Typical Route and Highlights

The itinerary varies with wind and tide, but a typical cruise includes:

• Depart from Southampton and sail west past the Needles to Studland Bay or Poole.
• Continue along the Jurassic Coast to Weymouth or Portland Harbour.
• Enjoy coastal anchorages such as Lulworth Cove or Chapman’s Pool.
• Return east along the coast, practising pilotage and tidal strategies en route.

Approaching Weymouth – ideal for tidal pilotage practice.

Learn by Doing

Each cruise is a hands-on learning opportunity. You’ll be involved in every aspect of the voyage – from plotting courses and handling sails to planning harbour entries and standing watch if there is any night sailing.

There’s also the opportunity for participants to take the role of skipper for a leg of around 40–60 nautical miles, under the supervision and coaching of our instructor – excellent experience in general but also for anyone working toward Yachtmaster Offshore.

Take the helm for a coastal passage under professional guidance.

What You’ll Experience

• Coastal passage planning and tidal strategy
• Pilotage into busy harbours like Weymouth and Poole
• Night sailing and watch rotations
• Sail handling and reefing in variable conditions
• Anchoring techniques in sheltered coves

Night sailing adds depth to your coastal experience.

Why Choose Our Dorset Cruises

• Gain real tidal and coastal experience in a supportive environment
• Perfect for building confidence after Day Skipper
• Opportunity to skipper a coastal passage under supervision
• Friendly crews and professional RYA instructors
• Stunning scenery and memorable anchorages

Anchoring overnight in Lulworth Cove – a peaceful end to a day under sail.

What to Bring

• RYA logbook and passport (if needed for identification)
• Waterproof jacket and salopettes. We can provide FOC if needed
• Warm layers and deck shoes with non-marking soles
• Headtorch, sleeping bag, pillow.

Book Your Dorset Jurassic Coast Cruise

Join us for a Dorset Jurassic Coast Cruise and combine skill building with unforgettable scenery. Whether you’re collecting miles or building confidence, you’ll leave a more experienced sailor – and with memories of a truly beautiful coastline.

View more information on these Dorset sailing trips and see upcoming dates or email [email protected] to book your berth.

Enjoyed exploring the Dorset coast? Check out our other Mile Building adventures – short offshore Weekend Channel Hops, challenging 7-Day Channel Triangle Trips, northern Norway Expeditions and bluewater Atlantic Adventures. Learn more in our main guide to Mile Building Sailing Trips.

Posted by: First Class Sailing