TEAM URBAN’S SUMMER GET TOGETHER
Poole Harbour is the largest natural Harbour in Europe, it is a site of natural conservation which has international protections in place as well as the unique charm and natural beauty, Poole Harbour is a hive of activity for water sports enthusiasts and holiday makers. The golden sands, the expansive views of the Purbeck Hills, and the vibrant atmosphere provided an ideal setting for a memorable event.
The Urban team and their families were welcomed aboard the City Cruises’ Island Scene. Being one of their smaller vessels, with the capacity to accommodate up to 80 people, it provided a cozy yet spacious environment, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenic views and relax together during the evening.
As we set sail on the Island Scene, we all received our delicious Fish & Chip supper freshly wrapped and delivered by the award-winning All-ways Fryday and listened to the comic yet informative commentary from Captain Davis, which added a light-hearted and engaging touch to the tour, making the experience both fun and educational. The sunset was spectacular as we toured around the harbour islands, which includes Brownsea Island which sits in the middle of the harbour and is the largest and well known of the islands.
Brownsea Island is rich in history and natural beauty. Its fame for the red squirrel and sika deer populations makes it a significant site for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly as red squirrels are now a rare sight in much of the UK. The island’s historical significance as the birthplace of the Scouting and Guides Associations marks it as a site of international interest for millions involved in these movements.
The island’s transformation over the centuries—from its roots in the Iron Age, through periods as monasteries, gentleman estates, and farmland—illustrates its dynamic history. Today, under the stewardship of the National Trust, Dorset Wildlife Trust, the Scout and Guide Associations, and John Lewis and Partners, Brownsea Island is carefully conserved to preserve both its natural environment and its historical legacy. This collaborative effort ensures that the island’s unique heritage and wildlife continue to thrive for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
The lesser-known islands of Poole Harbour add to the scenic tours, each with its own unique characteristics and history. Furzey Island to the south of Brownsea is home to oil wells hidden behind the pine trees. Many of the islands are privately owned as is Green Island in the central south part of the harbour and to the south of Brownsea, and Round Island on the western side, which was once a former navy base during WW2 however the properties that remain on Round Island now serves as a unique holiday destination, albeit with a long waiting list of 2 years for those eager to stay. And lastly the most mysterious uninhabited stretch of land is Long island, situated on the south west side of the harbour, just off the shore of Arne peninsular Long Island is only a few feet wide and quarter of the size during high tide, although owned privately by a property developer there are no plans to build on this island keeping it as a wildlife heaven for avocets, black-tailed godwits and wildfowl, which can only contribute to the natural beauty and ecological diversity of Poole Harbour.
The cruise around Poole Harbour truly offered a feast for the eyes, with its sensational views and iconic landmarks, The famous chalk stacks of old Harry’s Rocks and even Corfe castle was seen over the hills in the distance, the golden sands that outlines Sandbanks beach offered a picturesque scenery. Passing by “Millionaire’s Row,” with its luxurious homes, was a fun and aspirational moment, especially for the children who delighted in picking out their dream houses.
The stunning cruise, perfectly showcasing the diverse beauty and charm of the Poole Harbour area ended as the sun set back at Poole Quay with tummy’s full of fish & chips and lots of shared laughter, excellent company and photographic memories of a fantastic summer get-together. An enjoyable evening was had by all.
