Studland Bay is not only a much‑loved destination for boaters – its sheltered waters provide a vital safe haven during storms and a welcome rest point after long passages.
But the bay is also a designated Marine Conservation Zone and Voluntary No Anchor Zone. So we’re working together to protect the bay’s fragile wildlife, while ensuring it remains a fantastic place for people to enjoy.
Top photo: © boatfolk
Photo: The Seahorse Trust
The problems with anchors
Eco-moorings allow boaters to enjoy the bay without harming the precious habitat.
How boaters can help
Boaters can play a huge part in protecting Studland’s seagrass meadows by:
- Using the eco-moorings when inside the Voluntary No Anchor Zone.
- Paying for use of the eco-moorings – this helps fund their removal and maintenance each winter.
- Anchoring outside of the Voluntary No Anchor Zone if you prefer to use a traditional anchor or your vessel exceeds the eco-mooring weight limit (over 10 tonnes).
- Check the location of the seagrass meadows and eco-moorings in Studland Bay – and across the UK – by using navigation apps such as savvy navvy and Navionics.
“Having sailed to Studland Bay for many years, I was initially sceptical about the project. But joining the partnership's steering group changed everything. We all had different agendas, but we have worked things through together – and now we all agree the eco‑moorings are helping the seagrass and its marine life recover. The results speak for themselves.”Jim Atkins, member of the partnership steering group, and ambassador to the boating community.
Calling all boat clubs
Would your members like to know more about seagrass meadows and eco-moorings? If so, why not host one of our talks – delivered by partners who are boaters themselves. They will answer your questions and give practical tips on how the boating community can help protect Studland Bay’s marine life.
We can even bring along our full‑size display eco‑mooring, so your members can see exactly how the system works. If your club is interested, please get in touch.
