Poole Harbour is one of the best board sailing venues on the South Coast. There is a dedicated board sailing area in Whitley Lake at Sandbanks, which is shallow and safe, but dries out at low water. It is ideal for novices and the area is next to the road and a sandy beach and is very convenient for unloading and rigging.

Board sailing can, however, take place throughout the harbour, but persons intending to navigate across the Middle Ship Channel must do so by the shortest possible route, and not cause any obstruction to other vessels which can navigate only within such areas.

Wind Surfing is not allowed in the Harbour entrance. In practical terms, keep out of the way of all other vessels in these channels (Byelaw 2bb). More challenging conditions can be met at Kimmeridge Bay, some 40 minutes to the west via the chain ferry. Kite surfing is allowed in Poole Harbour with some restrictions. Kite surfers must keep out of the main shipping channels. There are no windsurfing clubs in the area but the local windsurfing shop, French Connection Watersports 01202 707757, can give advice on equipment, location and weather forecast. Gear can be hired by the hour and expert tuition is also available.

Follow the Code of Safe Practice for Windsurfers.
See www.rya.org.uk