Hire a yacht in Dorset

Renting a boat in Dorset

Dorset is a county in South West England, bordered by Devon to its west, Somerset to its north-east and Hampshire to its east. It is renowned for its stunning coastline, which includes some of the most beautiful and unique areas in the United Kingdom. Dorset's coastal scenery has been inspiring people for centuries; the Jurassic Coast, for example, was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2001.

One of the best ways to explore Dorset's coastline is by boat. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sailor, there are plenty of places to go and sights to see. With stunning views that stretch out over the English Channel, you can explore some of Britain's most famous landmarks such as Old Harry Rocks and Lulworth Cove. You can even take a cruise around Poole Harbour - one of Britain's largest natural harbours - with plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife such as dolphins and seals. It's time to book your next boat hire in Dorset with Nautal now!

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Dorset?

The price of a yacht charter in Dorset is based on the type of boat you choose, the number of people sailing, the season and the duration of your trip. If you opt for any extra options like a skipper or water sports equipment, the price may also vary. Below, you can find the starting price for each type of boat available for your yacht rental in Dorset.

• You can hire a sailboat from £98 per day in high season
• You can hire a catamaran from £1,024 per day in high season

Is it possible to rent a boat in Dorset with or without a skipper?

You can book a boat hire in Dorset with or without a skipper. If this is your first time sailing or you wish to relax and make the most of your trip, we recommend booking a skippered charter. Your skipper will take care of navigating and mooring, and will even guide you to some secret spots along the south coast. On the other hand, if you have some previous sailing experience and wish to explore this stunning county at your own pace, you can also opt for a bat rental in Dorset without a skipper.

What to do in Dorset?

Dorset is home to one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the entire British isles. From Brownsea Island and Studland Bay to Shell Bay, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, here's our guide to some of the best places to see with your yacht charter in Dorset

• Brownsea Island is a stunning nature reserve off the coast of Poole and it's well worth seeing by boat. The island is home to stunning woodlands, marshes and lagoons where you can spot a variety of wildlife including red squirrels, birds and deer. There are also lots of exciting activities to enjoy such as paddleboarding and kayaking, so it's a great day out for all ages!
• Studland bay is another popular place for boat trips due to its secluded beaches, breathtaking scenery and wildlife-rich waters. The bay has four beautiful sandy beaches which are perfect for swimming or simply relaxing in the sun. You can also take guided boat tours around the area which will give you an up close look at some of the local wildlife like seals and dolphins!
• Shell Bay is a must-see destination when visiting Dorset with a boat. This picturesque bay is ideal for watersports such as sailing and kayaking but it's also great for just taking in the stunning views of Purbeck Hills from afar. There are plenty of restaurants nearby too if you fancy getting some food before heading back out on your boat!
• Lulworth Cove is a beautiful spot that should not be missed when travelling around Dorset by boat. With its crystal clear waters and white chalk cliffs, this natural wonder is sure to take your breath away! Take your time admiring this unique landscape before docking at one of the many small beaches in the cove or exploring further along the coast towards Durdle Door - one of Britain's most iconic landmarks.
• No boat rental in Dorset would be complete without sailing to the neighbouring Isle of Wight. Famous attractions like Osborne House and Carisbrooke Castle can be reached with your boat hire, while other popular spots include Alum Bay Cliffs, Needles Park and Yarmouth Harbour - all offering stunning views from the water!

How is the weather and sailing conditions in Dorset?

While the weather in Dorset is generally pleasant year-round, there are definitely certain times of year that are better suited for a boat hire. For example, the summer months offer longer days and warmer temperatures, making it ideal for spending time on the water. There are also different events which take place during this period. On the other, if you're looking to avoid the crowds, autumn can be a great time to book a yacht rental in Dorset. The weather is still mild and there are fewer people about, so you can enjoy all the beauty of the county at your own pace.

How to get to Dorset?

The easiest way to reach Dorset is by taking the train or driving. There are direct train routes to major towns such as Bournemouth from London Waterloo, Bristol Temple Meads and Southampton Central. If you wish to drive, then you can easily take the M3 motorway and then pick up the A31 or A35 for the final stretch. This route will take around 3 hours if you’re travelling from London or the Home Counties. Alternatively, if you’re coming from the north or west, take the M5 motorway.