City Cruises Poole

Family Days Out with the Kids in Poole

Looking for a family day out that's fun, affordable and a little bit different? A cruise around Poole Harbour is the perfect way to keep the kids entertained while exploring one of Dorset's most beautiful natural attractions.

As you sail through the harbour, children can enjoy spotting a variety of wildlife along the way. Keep an eye out for cormorants, herons and oystercatchers, as well as the harbour's most exciting visitors – seals. While sightings can never be guaranteed, seals are regularly spotted in and around the harbour, and seeing one in the wild is always a highlight for young explorers.

The cruise also offers fantastic views of Brownsea Island, Sandbanks and the many boats that call Poole Harbour home.

Parents can relax and enjoy the scenery while children watch the water, look for wildlife and listen to fascinating stories about the harbour from the onboard commentary.

Offering fresh sea air, stunning views and quality family time together. Whether you're visiting Dorset on holiday or looking for a local adventure, it's a simple way to create special memories with the kids while discovering the magic of Poole Harbour.

Poole Harbour is one of the best places on the south coast for spotting wildlife, making it a real highlight of any family cruise. The calm, sheltered waters and extensive mudflats create the perfect habitat for a wide range of species, so there’s always something to look out for.

Birdlife is especially rich throughout the year. You’ll often see elegant grey herons standing still along the shoreline, patiently hunting for fish. Cormorants are a common sight too, frequently seen drying their wings on posts or buoys after diving beneath the water. In the shallows and mudflats, oystercatchers with their bright orange beaks are easy to spot, along with curlews and other wading birds searching for food.

One of the biggest thrills for passengers is spotting seals. Harbour seals can sometimes be seen popping up beside the boat or resting on sandbanks when the tide is out. These playful and curious animals are always a favourite with children and adults alike.

Every cruise offers something slightly different, making wildlife spotting in Poole Harbour a unique experience each time you set out on the water.

Our onboard café bar is the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy your cruise around Poole Harbour. Open throughout your journey, it offers a great selection of hot and cold drinks, light snacks, and treats to keep everyone happy while you take in the views.

Whether you’re in the mood for a freshly brewed tea or coffee, a chilled soft drink, or something a little more indulgent, there’s something to suit all tastes. It’s especially popular with families, giving parents a chance to unwind while the kids enjoy being out on deck spotting boats, islands, and wildlife.

The café bar adds to the relaxed, holiday feel of the cruise, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the experience from start to finish. There’s nothing quite like sipping a drink while watching Poole Harbour glide by, with Sandbanks, Brownsea Island and the Purbeck Hills in the distance.

Friendly onboard staff are always on hand to serve you and make sure you have everything you need. It’s all part of creating a welcoming, easy-going atmosphere where you can simply switch off and enjoy your time on the water.