Brighton: Sailing Trip with Drinks

Taking to the water around Brighton offers a blend of fresh sea air, stunning coastal views, and a chance to see local wildlife—plus the added fun of sailing with a glass of sparkling wine in hand. This sailing trip with drinks is a popular choice for visitors wanting a relaxed yet active outdoor experience, but like any adventure, it’s not without considerations. We’ve gathered the details to help you decide if this trip fits your travel style.

From the thrill of taking the helm yourself to soaking in the scenery and enjoying a toast by the Sussex coast, this experience appeals to those looking for a fresh perspective on Brighton. Whether you’re an active sailor or prefer to relax and watch the maritime world go by, you’ll find something to enjoy here. However, keep in mind that weather conditions can impact the trip, as one review notes a cancellation due to high winds.

Ideal for curious travelers eager to get on the water, this trip is especially suitable if you love scenic views, wildlife spotting, and a touch of adventure—plus, a little bubbly. It works well for those over 10 years old who are comfortable with a boat environment. If your travel plans are flexible and you’re craving a maritime adventure, this tour might just be a highlight.

Key Points

• Active or Relaxed: You can sail yourself or sit back and enjoy the ride.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for dolphins and seabirds along the coast.
• Scenic Views: Stunning vistas of Brighton, the Sussex coastline, and the English Channel.
• Skilled Skipper: RYA-trained crew ensure safety and expert guidance.
• Weather Dependence: Wind or rough seas may result in cancellations.
• Value: Includes drinks and safety equipment, offering a balanced outdoor experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at Brighton’s Sailing Trip with Drinks

What’s Included and What to Expect

This 2-hour sailing trip offers a chance to see Brighton from a different angle, starting at Pontoon 5 on the West Jetty in Brighton Marina. The experience is led by a qualified RYA-trained skipper plus crew, providing a reassurance of safety and local expertise. You’ll be equipped with safety gear, including a slim-fit life jacket—crucial for comfort and safety in open water.

The tour promises a flexible experience: you can actively participate by taking the helm or trimming the sails, or simply sit back and enjoy the scenery and company. The skipper will tailor the trip based on weather conditions, sometimes heading out into the English Channel for a true open-water cruise or sticking closer to Brighton’s coast for sightseeing.

Expect stunning views of Brighton’s skyline, the rugged Sussex coastline, and the sea stretching into the horizon. Wildlife enthusiasts should be alert for dolphins, which some guests mention spotting during their trips. The highlight for many is raising a glass of sparkling wine—the tour includes drinks onboard, making this a relaxing way to toast the coast.

The Itinerary: From Marina to the Open Sea

The starting point at Brighton Marina is convenient and easy to find, with clear directions to ring the gate at Pontoon 5. Once aboard, the skipper gives a safety briefing before setting sail. The boat’s movement depends on weather conditions, but in good weather, you’ll experience the sensation of sailing on the open water, with the wind in your hair and the waves beneath you.

If conditions permit, your skipper might take you out into the English Channel, where the open water offers a more exhilarating experience. For those less adventurous, or if the weather is less cooperative, the trip will stay closer to the coast, providing picturesque views of Brighton’s shoreline, with opportunities for photo-taking and wildlife watching.

Throughout, the crew is attentive, ensuring safety and comfort, while also sharing interesting facts about local marine life, maritime history, or the area’s geography—adding an educational element to your trip.

The Experience: Active or Leisurely?

Guests are free to choose how much they participate. Some guests, like Mette, found the trip great but were disappointed about the lack of drinks, possibly due to miscommunication or weather-related cancellations. The review from a traveler who experienced cancellation due to high winds also underscores the unpredictability of sailing trips.

Those who enjoy hands-on activities will appreciate the chance to take the helm and trim the sails, which adds a genuine sense of adventure. Others may prefer to sit back, enjoy the panoramic views, and sip their sparkling wine in peace.

More Great Tours Nearby

Price and Value Analysis

At roughly $87.55 per person, the cost includes safety equipment, a skipper, crew, and drinks. When you consider the cost of a typical boat trip plus the included drinks, this is relatively good value—especially if you’re interested in a short, memorable maritime experience. However, be aware that cancellations due to weather can happen, and some reviews suggest the experience might feel a bit overpriced if you’re expecting more than just scenery and a drink.

The Realities of Weather and Cancellation

One review explicitly mentions that their trip was canceled because of high winds, a common issue for sailing adventures. This unpredictability is part of the sailing experience, so flexibility is essential. Booking with a provider that offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides some peace of mind.

Who Will Love This?

This trip is perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager to see Brighton from the water. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a balance of activity and relaxation, wildlife spotting, and coastal scenery. It’s less ideal for very young children under 10, or for travelers seeking a full-day adventure. This experience is more about the moment than a deep dive into maritime history or extensive sightseeing.

The Bottom Line

If you’re after a short, scenic sailing experience with a touch of sophistication (thanks to the included bubbly), this trip offers an enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours in Brighton. The opportunity to actively sail or simply relax while soaking in breathtaking coastal views makes this tour flexible and appealing. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for possible cancellations or delays.

While the experience provides professional guidance and wildlife sightings, some guests have mentioned that the value might be limited if the weather doesn’t cooperate or if the trip gets canceled unexpectedly. Still, for those who love boats, coastal vistas, and a casual, social atmosphere, this is a solid choice.

Who should consider this trip?

It’s ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed maritime adventure with drinks, scenic beauty, and the chance to feel a bit like a seasoned sailor. Perfect for those with a flexible schedule, an appreciation for wildlife, and an interest in enjoying Brighton’s seaside from the water. Not suitable for those who prefer extensive sightseeing or who want a guaranteed experience on their first try.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I participate in sailing the boat myself?
Yes, you can actively take part in sailing and trimming the sails if you wish, with guidance from your skipper. It’s an option for those who want a hands-on experience.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Pontoon 5 on the West Jetty at Brighton Marina. You’ll need to ring the doorbell at the gate marked for pontoons 5 and 6 to be let through.

How long is the trip?
The sailing adventure lasts about 2 hours. Start times vary, so check availability when booking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The experience is not recommended for children under 10 years old, likely due to safety and activity level.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can cause cancellations, especially in windy conditions like high winds, which has happened before. The tour offers full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Are drinks included?
Yes, a glass of sparkling wine is included onboard, making it a nice way to toast the coast. However, one guest noted they did not receive drinks, which might be an exception or communication issue.

Is there any educational component?
While primarily a scenic and recreational trip, the crew shares interesting facts about local wildlife and maritime areas, adding a subtle educational element.

What safety measures are in place?
The boat is fitted with safety equipment, including slim-fit life jackets, and is operated by trained crew ensuring a secure experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for changing travel plans.

In short, this Brighton sailing trip offers a lively, scenic escape with options to actively participate or simply enjoy the views. It’s best suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, wildlife watching, and coastal scenery—along with a refreshing glass of bubbly. Just remember to check the weather forecast before booking, as wind and weather conditions can influence whether your trip sets sail or stays ashore.

You can check availability for your dates here: