Portreath Harbour

Portreath Harbour – Small Working Harbour with Industrial Heritage Nestled on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, Portreath Harbour offers a unique blend of maritime history and practical facilities for leisure and small commercial vessels. Originally developed in the 18th century as a major copper-export port, it now operates as a working harbour and Trust Port managed by the Portreath Harbour Association under lease from Cornwall Council. 🌊 Harbour Layout & Operations The harbour comprises two tidal basins (inner and outer), a turning basin, a finger pier, and an eastern breakwater. It’s a functioning commercial and leisure port, with a small fleet of fishing vessels, dive operators, and visitor boat traffic. At low tide, the harbour basin dries significantly, so it’s essential that visiting vessels can rest safely on the bottom. ⚓ Moorings & Access Moorings are available occasionally; local leisure and commercial boats use wall moorings and pontoons, and visitors may secure a berth during quieter periods. The main slipway—with electric winch access—is located in the inner basin and normally only open to association members, due to the absence of a full-time harbour master. The harbour sees peak activity roughly 2½ hours either side of high tide, when boats are most active loading, unloading, or manoeuvring. 🛟 Facilities & Nearby Amenities On-site facilities are basic: water is available in the adjacent car park, and public toilets are nearby. No shore power or fuel is available directly within the harbour, but petrol and diesel can be obtained nearby. The harbour is adjacent to Portreath Beach, a popular spot for families and surfers. There’s also a natural rock pool just off the harbour wall—great for a sheltered swim. ⚠️ Safety & Local Behaviour Keep a safe distance from quay edges—especially at low tide—due to exposed mooring ropes and chains near the inner basin. Slipway launching is limited to harbour members. Public users may be turned away. The harbour entrance can be challenging, especially during swell or low tide—boats should proceed with care. Oncoming wares arriving to load or unload may move quickly—watch for traffic, cranes, and vehicles on the quayside. 🧭 Local Highlights Portreath boasts: A scenic sandy beach behind swirling cliffs—ideal for swimming and board sports. Good coastal walking trails in,cluding the Mineral Tramway Trail to Devoran and the South West Coast Path A tight-knit, friendly village with cafés, pubs, and essential shops just off the harbour 📍 Contact Information Harbour Office: Cornwall Harbours – Portreath Call: 01872 324216 Email: harbouroffice@cornwall.gov.uk Address: Portreath Harbour, Cornwall TR16 4LA ✅ Portreath Harbour is best suited to boaters seeking a historic, working harbour experience, especially those with shallow-draft vessels or drying legs. It’s not a marina: expect minimal on-site facilities, limited visitor moorings, and your fair share of commercial traffic. But the harbour’s timeless charm, surf-friendly beach, and scenic walks make it an appealing stop for cruising with character.