Portland Harbour

Measuring 3 x 2 miles, Portland Harbour is a popular windsurfing location attracting thousands of sailors every year. It can be sailed in any wind direction and being virtually enclosed it offers a reasonably safe environment for beginners and improvers.

In the 80s it was home to the Weymouth Speed Week with the likes of Fred Heywood, Pascal Maka and Jenna de Rosnay all aiming for the 40 knot speed title. In October 2006 a kitesurfer by the name of Nigel Bowley gave everyone a run for their money on the Portland Speed course - including the windsurfers - by coming out on top with an amazing speed of 36.85 knots.

Most kitesurfers launch from the causeway at Ferrybridge which joins Weymouth to the Isle of Portland.

The Ferrybridge boatyard car park on the left of the road ( £3 daily charge ) or a larger council car park on the right which is cheaper but entails carrying kit across the road so care must be taken. There are toilets and a cafe.

The natural phenomenon of Chesil Beach, a 10 mile stretch of pebble beach, allows winds from southerly to north-westerly to sweep unhindered into the harbour which makes for blasting conditions in strong winds on flat water.

A classic Portland Harbour day has strong westerly winds blowing, which enable the sailor to bear away to 120 degrees off the wind, sailing parallel to the Weymouth to Portland Road.

 Smooth occasional chop

 Shipping and other water users , pebble bank

Overcombe Beach

At the other end of town is an ideal place for kitesurfing - out of season or when the beach is quiet.

The beach faces south so the best wind directions are from the south west - (cross shore from the right) or easterlies (cross shore from the left).

 Smooth to moderate

Most Kiters launch right of the cafe - please ask