Autumn Safari Cruises

Autumn migration is one of the key highlights of the birding calendar, beginning in July and running right the way through to early November. This prolonged season never fails to inspire excitement and anticipation as a whole suite of different species push through the UK on passage, with many using Poole Harbour as a terminal and stop-off site between northern breeding grounds and milder wintering areas further south.

Getting to grips with autumn migrants can prove challenging as all number of species are popping up out of context coupled with a mass arrival of fresh juvenile plumages to learn. The first pulse sees the first arctic breeding waders reaching our shores, making way for impressive movements of wetland birds, birds of prey and passerines unseen at other times of the year, slowly welcoming the return our of familiar winter visitors as the season progresses. Situated on the South Coast, the vast intertidal mudflats of Poole Harbour provide vital re-fueling sites and draw in huge numbers to work through, but figuring out access and navigation on foot can bring its own challenges.

These three-hour cruises with running commentary embrace the safari experience, scouring the harbour for passage migrants from otherwise inaccessible areas such as the Wareham Channel and Frome Valley as well as offering premier views behind the Brownsea Lagoon seawall. From bird behaviour, plumage and vocalisations, we’ll guide you through the species we encounter all set to the stunning harbour landscape. The exact route will be determined on the day, taking into account the state of the tide and latest sightings, to maximise the birding potential of the cruise so no two trips will be the same!

Additional Information

• Boat trips depart from and return to Poole Quay boarding with Greenslade Pleasure Boats (orange-and-white kiosk) opposite the Lord Nelson pub
• Nearest public car park is Quay Visitors multi-storey car park, Old Orchard, BH15 1SB (please note there is a height limit)
• Toilet facilities, undercover seating and light refreshments are available onboard
• Tickets do no need to be printed as we will use a digital guest-list when boarding
• Dogs are not permitted, with the exception of assistance and guide dogs.
• Important information about accessibility: Please note that, due to the size of the boarding ramp and steps to access the lower deck of the boat, there are unfortunately some limitations for wheelchair users on our boat trips. Please read Greenslade Pleasure Boats full access statement before booking if you, or one of your party, are a wheelchair user. Information about carer's tickets can be found in our FAQs section.

• We will attempt with every effort to arrive back on time, but please note that due the state of the tides, weather or sightings we may arrive back up to half an hour later than originally stated.

White-tailed Eagle and Spoonbill photos - Mark Wright and Harry McBride