On the Water

The water has played an important part to this region for centuries. Fishermen have hauled their catch up onto Worthings beaches since before 1700 and even today you can still buy fresh fish on the beach. Fisherman now also enjoy casting their lines fom the pier.

The Pier , voted Pier of the Year in 2006, is open daily so you can enjoy a walk out over the sea. In August competitive flyers jump off the pier, in a variety of costumes with some weird and wonderful contraptions, while participating in the Worthing International Birdman Competition.

The younger generation have moved in to make the most of the fabulous winds which are accelerated by the South Downs making the conditions perfect for kitesurfing and windsurfing.  Lewis Crathern, 3 times British Champion Kitesurfer and Worthing resident says "Worthing is a really cool place to live and has become the kitesurf capital of the UK, offering some of the best kitesurfing conditions in the world." Come down and watch them fly whenever the wind is blowing - you might be watching some of the world's pros!

Worthing is also home to the Worthing Rowing Club and Worthing Sailing Club. Taster sessions are often available, so why not have a go.

Along the coast is Shoreham-by-Sea located at the mouth of the River Adur. It's dominated by Shoreham Port, one of the South Coasts premier commercial ports. Established in 1760, the port provides Southern England with a great deal of its raw materials including timber, steel, grain, tarmac to name but a few.  Group tours are available by special appointment only. 

The RNLI Lifeboat Station situated on Kingston Beach adjacent to the lighthouse, is manned all year round by local volunteers, it is home to historical memorabilia and artifacts.

The River Adur is full of activity; boating, sailing, yachting, rowing,
windsurfing and canoeing are all popular activities on the river and in the Port of Shoreham. River moorings and berths for visiting vessels are controlled and provided by Shoreham Port Authority in the locked canal section of the harbour. The Adur Outdoor Activity Centre is a great place to start particularly if you have no previous experience.

The River Adur Estaury is a Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) with Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and so is a haven for wildlife.

A history of activity along the south coast in the English Channel brings with it a large number of ship wrecks perfect for scuba diving. Get your air fills and equipment from the dive shop in Lancing and take a charter boat out from Shoreham Harbour - there's so much to see.

No matter what you're doing on the water always remember that you are responsible for the safety of yourself and others when out and about on the water. Make yourself familiar with the local regulations and signage before you venture out onto the water and remember to check the weather, wind and tide situation and forecasts as well.