South Pembrokeshire Coast - Area 13

Overview

The South Pembrokeshire coast is characterised by a varied shoreline of low cliffs, sandy bays, and intermittent headlands. The area forms part of a broader national park coastline, with a generally exposed southern aspect facing the Bristol Channel.

Settlements are dispersed, with a few established coastal towns and smaller villages. The coastline includes several natural inlets and estuarine features, though conditions can change quickly depending on weather and tidal movement.

Local Operating Context (for Liveaboard Boaters)

This stretch of coast requires a cautious and flexible approach to movement and anchorage. Opportunities for stopping vary, and suitability often depends on prevailing winds and tidal states.

The tidal range in this area is significant, influencing both access and holding conditions. Timing is often a key consideration when navigating inshore or approaching shallower bays.

Extended stays at anchor may be limited by exposure, particularly in unsettled weather. Some areas may offer temporary shelter, though few locations provide consistent protection across all conditions.

Interaction with the shore is generally dependent on tide height and landing conditions. In some areas, access may be straightforward at certain states of tide but restricted at others.

Typical Conditions

• Moderate to strong tidal streams, particularly around headlands
• Prevailing south-westerly winds can increase exposure
• Sea state may become uneven in wind-against-tide scenarios
• Weather patterns can shift rapidly, especially in transitional seasons

Access & Shelter

• Limited natural harbours with consistent all-weather shelter
• Some bays may offer partial protection depending on wind direction
• Approaches to inlets can be constrained by tidal depth
• Holding ground varies and may require careful assessment

Shore Interaction

• Landing points often depend on beach gradients and tidal range
• Access may be easier in settled conditions and at mid to high tide
• Some areas have restricted or environmentally sensitive shorelines
• Movement ashore can be limited during rough weather

Risk Factors

• Exposure to open sea conditions along much of the coast
• Strong tidal flows around prominent coastal features
• Shifting sandbanks and submerged hazards in some bays
• Limited fallback options in deteriorating weather

Overall Character

The South Pembrokeshire coast presents a generally open and moderately challenging environment for liveaboard boating. It combines accessible stretches with more exposed sections, requiring ongoing awareness of weather and tidal influences.

Notable Locations

• Tenby: A coastal town with a sheltered harbour area that may offer temporary refuge depending on conditions.

• Milford Haven: A large natural estuary providing more sheltered waters and navigational access inland.

• Freshwater West: An open bay with limited shelter, often exposed to prevailing winds.

• Stackpole Quay: A small inlet that can offer some protection in favourable conditions, though access is tide-dependent.

Practical Mooring & Anchorage Locations

Milford Haven

• Type: Estuary / Natural Harbour System
• Shelter: Well protected from all wind directions within the inner waterway
• Exposure: Outer approaches can be affected by strong tidal streams and wind-against-tide conditions
• Key Constraints: Heavy commercial traffic in the main channel; tidal planning required for entry to side creeks and basins
• Traffic Level: High
• Liveaboard Suitability: High
• Notes: One of the most sheltered deep-water systems in Wales. Offers multiple anchoring and marina options along its length.

Neyland Marina

• Type: Marina
• Shelter: Fully sheltered within Milford Haven Waterway
• Exposure: Minimal internal exposure; only affected by strong wind funneling in extreme conditions
• Key Constraints: Access depends on navigation through the main Milford Haven channel; tidal range affects approach timing
• Traffic Level: Medium
• Liveaboard Suitability: High
• Notes: Established marina with good long-stay capability. Quiet compared to commercial areas further downstream.

Pembroke Dock Marina

• Type: Marina
• Shelter: Strong shelter within the Milford Haven inner waterway
• Exposure: Very limited exposure; occasional wash from passing traffic
• Key Constraints: Commercial port activity nearby; tidal considerations for passage along the waterway
• Traffic Level: High
• Liveaboard Suitability: High
• Notes: Convenient access to town facilities and services. Suitable for extended stays with good infrastructure.

Dale

• Type: Harbour / Anchorage
• Shelter: Good shelter from northerly and easterly winds
• Exposure: Swell can enter from the southwest in strong onshore conditions
• Key Constraints: Limited space in the harbour; anchorage holding varies with seabed; tidal currents in the channel
• Traffic Level: Medium
• Liveaboard Suitability: Medium
• Notes: Popular stop within Milford Haven Waterway. Works best in settled or moderate conditions.

Angle Bay

• Type: Anchorage / Estuary
• Shelter: Good protection from most winds within the inner bay
• Exposure: Outer edges exposed to tidal flow and occasional swell penetration
• Key Constraints: Strong tidal currents; careful positioning required due to shallow margins and shifting mudflats
• Traffic Level: Low
• Liveaboard Suitability: Medium
• Notes: Quiet anchorage area with good holding in parts. Best used with clear tidal planning and daylight arrival.

Tenby Harbour

• Type: Harbour
• Shelter: Good shelter from most directions within the inner harbour walls
• Exposure: Can become uncomfortable in strong easterly winds and large swell conditions outside the harbour
• Key Constraints: Tidal access restrictions; drying areas and limited space; visitor demand in peak season
• Traffic Level: High
• Liveaboard Suitability: Medium
• Notes: Well-known coastal harbour with strong tidal character. Suitable for short to medium stays depending on space availability.