Berthing
Visitor Berthing Information
Charlestown Harbour is a unique enclosed tidal harbour with a freshwater dock, protected by a new lock gate, on the south coast of Cornwall.
It offers sheltered berthing within a working Georgian port and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following major investment in the lock gate, winches, and harbour infrastructure, the harbour will reopen to visiting vessels from spring 2026.
Berthing Fees
All prices include VAT (20%). Fees are charged per metre per day.
Minimum stay: 3 nights (shorter stays will be subject to lock fees)
Catamarans: 25% surcharge
Classic vessels*: Eligible for a discretionary 20% discount on short-term stays
Lock operations: Berthing fees include one lock-in and one lock-out for short term stays. Please be aware all lock gate movements are weather and tide dependent. Additional lock operations are chargeable.
Utilities: Electricity charged at cost
Fresh water and showers included
Laundry via coin / token machines
Visitor Berthing Rates
Annual Berthing (Limited Availability)
Annual berths are offered selectively to maintain the harbour’s historic character and working balance.
£5.90 per metre per week
(e.g. approx. £255.66 per month / £3,068 per year for a 10m vessel)
- Payable quarterly in advance
- Subject to application and approval
Charlestown prioritises well-maintained, characterful and working vessels.
Facilities
- Fresh water
- Shore power (charged at cost)
- Waste and recycling
- Village cafés and pub on the quay
- Shipwright services on site
- Pump out can be arranged by visiting services
Wi-Fi
Site-wide Wi-FI will be available for the 2026 season across the inner basin and visitor berths.
The Harbour & Lock
Charlestown consists of an Outer Tidal Basin and an Inner Wet Basin accessed via a folding lock gate, providing exceptional shelter once inside.
- Entrance width: 13.7m
- Lock width: 10.7m
- Maximum vessels: 57m LOA, 9m beam, 3.5m draught
The Outer Basin is tidal and and dries at low water. Typical depths are approx. 4.3m at HWS and 3.0m at HWN, with drying areas immediately outside the entrance on very low tides.
The lock normally operates up to HW on Spring Tides. A tide-wait mooring buoy (15-tonne rating) lies approx. 400m SSE of the entrance. In settled weather, vessels may always wait in the Outer Basin on anchor in the bay.
All movements are managed by harbour staff and must be booked in advance by telephone.
Approach & Navigation
Charlestown lies between Fowey and Mevagissey.
Position: 50°20.8’N 04°46.5’W
The harbour is approached between stone breakwaters. In onshore swell or strong southerlies, entry is not advised.
- Entry by arrangement only
- Call ahead for gate times
- Do not approach without confirmation
Bay Moorings & Anchoring
Two seasonal visitor moorings are available in St Austell Bay.
£1.50 per metre per night (minimum £15)
Facilities (showers, water, toilets) available on request.
Lock access and inner-harbour berthing charged separately.
Vessels may also anchor in the bay and come ashore by tender via the Outer Harbour.
Smaller craft may berth in the drying Outer Harbour, subject to conditions.
All vessels must notify the Harbour Office on arrival.
Booking & Enquiries
For visitor berthing. classic vessel discounts. annual berths or group visits:
Charlestown Harbour Office (Mon-Fri 9-5)
info@charlestownharbour.com
+44 (0)1726 70241
www.charlestownharbour.com
Advance booking is strongly recommended for the 2026 season.
*Classic Vessel Definition
A classic vessel is a traditionally designed sailing or motor vessel of heritage or character, including wooden or traditionally rigged boats, historic workboats. pilot cutters. gaffers, long-keel yachts, fishing boats and faithful replicas. Eligibility is at the discretion of Charlestown Harbour.