The marina occupies part of the former Royal Naval Air Station Portland (RNAS Portland), which functioned as a significant helicopter base.
The surrounding Portland Harbour is one of the largest man-made harbours in the world, enclosed by massive stone breakwaters constructed between 1849 and 1905.
The breakwaters were built using local Portland Stone, transported via a dedicated railway system during the expansion of the harbour.
The site hosts a unique 'dry stack' storage system that keeps boats out of the water while allowing rapid launch-on-demand service.
The harbour waters are famous for hosting the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, located immediately adjacent to the marina.
Portland Marina is a sheltered, deep-water facility located within the historic Portland Harbour, offering direct access to the Jurassic Coast and the English Channel. It features over 500 berths and a comprehensive boatyard equipped with a 50-ton boat hoist and extensive dry-stack storage. The site served as a key venue for the sailing events during the 2012 London Olympic Games. Managed by boatfolk, the marina integrates commercial marine services with leisure facilities including onsite dining and marine retail outlets. The harbour is naturally protected by the extensive Portland Breakwaters, which restrict tidal flow and enhance safety for small craft. The facility operates as a hub for both recreational sailors and professional marine contractors. It is situated on the reclaimed land of the former Osprey Quay development.
The elevated walkway near the marina entrance providing a panoramic view of the masts against the backdrop of the Portland Harbour breakwaters.
Check the local marine weather forecast and tide times before arrival, as conditions in the open English Channel can shift rapidly.
Utilize the designated pedestrian walkways to navigate between the pontoon gates and the retail/dining areas to avoid restricted operational zones.
Visit the onsite chandlery or marine shops if you require specific nautical equipment or clothing.
Attempting to walk onto private pontoon piers without the required security fob or permission from the marina office.
Wear non-slip, rubber-soled footwear suitable for wet or metallic surfaces; keep dogs on a lead at all times near pontoon edges.
