Quench your Thirst for Adventure with a Bespoke Sailing Trip
Henry Chamberlain, 46, lives in picturesque Wells-next-the-Sea and has sailed in the local area since he was young.
He has an impressive background working as a Royal Marines Officer, a Director of field security at the World Food Programme and as a Polar Guide for the Scott Polar Research Institute.
He returned to his roots in North Norfolk five years ago to make his dream of starting the Coastal Exploration Company a reality. The company, which offers North Norfolk boat trips, was born as a result of Henry’s passion for travel and adventure, along with his professional experience in boating.
“I realised after 20 years of working in some fascinating parts of the world that North Norfolk is just as special and just as wild.
“The Coastal Exploration Company uses traditional Norfolk working boats to explore areas of the North Norfolk coast that you can’t ordinarily access, from Thornham to Cley. We can travel the entire length of the coast and go three miles out to sea.”
Tour Options
The Coastal Exploration Company offers a range of sailing experiences designed to showcase the beauty of the North Norfolk coast from a unique perspective. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing trip along the shoreline or a bespoke adventure with family and friends, there’s an experience to suit every visitor.
Traditional sailing experiences
Step aboard a traditional sailing vessel and discover the timeless appeal of exploring North Norfolk under sail. These trips provide a peaceful way to experience the coastline while learning more about the area’s rich maritime heritage.
Coastal exploration trips
Explore hidden creeks, salt marshes and picturesque stretches of coastline that are often inaccessible by land. Coastal exploration trips offer the chance to appreciate the diverse landscapes that make this part of Norfolk so special.
Private charters
Private charters are ideal for families, couples or groups looking for a more personalised experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying time together on the water, a private sailing trip allows you to tailor the experience to your interests.
Group and bespoke experiences
The company also caters for organised groups, corporate outings and bespoke experiences. Flexible itineraries can often be arranged, creating memorable days out centred around sailing, wildlife or coastal exploration.
Connecting with Nature
The Coastal Exploration Company offers bespoke North Norfolk boat trips and sailing trips for those who have a passion for adventure and a curiosity to experience the beautiful North Norfolk coast by water.
“We concentrate on adventure – think Bear Grylls. There is something for everyone: luxury, wildlife, or even smuggling packages.
“It’s not just about sailing and boats; it’s about connecting you with the rhythms of nature. It’s also just as much about the land when the tide is out, from foraging for cockles to spear fishing for flatfish in the creeks. There are even opportunities for wild swimming or walking the remote paths.”
Bespoke Sailing Trips
Henry tailors each sailing trip to the customer’s needs, down to the finest detail. He collaborates with the customer to create a bespoke itinerary for an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“I engage with each customer, explaining what we offer and explore what they would like to do – it’s a process which results in a unique trip every time.
“Trips can range from four hours to four days. Adventure to pure luxury, sea sail to creek sail or static wildlife observation to sailing at sea.”
There is plenty to see and do on the trips, whether you want to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife or visit beaches and creeks away from the hustle and bustle.
“We can access the bird reserves so you can see an amazing variety of birds. I try to work very closely with the nature organisations to preserve and protect what we have.
“We can also visit remote beaches, creeks that are hard to access, and islands such as Scolt Head. You gain a completely different perspective of the North Norfolk coast as you view it from the sea. It is another world out there – wild, but beautiful and unique.”
Wildlife and Seal-Watching Information
North Norfolk’s coastline is internationally recognised for its rich wildlife, making every sailing trip an opportunity to experience nature at its finest. Calm waters, protected habitats and abundant birdlife ensure there’s always something to discover.
Common seal sightings
One of the highlights of many trips is the opportunity to observe North Norfolk’s famous common and grey seals resting on sandbanks or swimming through the shallow coastal waters. Watching these remarkable animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.
Coastal birdlife
The salt marshes and mudflats support an impressive variety of coastal birds throughout the year. Depending on the season, visitors may spot oystercatchers, avocets, terns, curlews and many other species that thrive along the Norfolk coast.
Best times for wildlife spotting
Wildlife can be seen throughout the year, although spring and summer often provide excellent opportunities to observe breeding birds, while autumn and winter attract large numbers of migratory species. Calm weather and favourable tides can also enhance wildlife viewing.
Responsible wildlife viewing
Protecting North Norfolk’s wildlife is a priority. Tours are conducted with great care to minimise disturbance, allowing visitors to enjoy close-up encounters while respecting the animals and their natural environment.
A Customer’s Perspective
Noa Maxwell, 44, from London, comes to stay in North Norfolk with his family every year. On his most recent visit, he arranged a bespoke sailing trip with the Coastal Exploration Company.
“What attracted us to a Coastal Exploration Company sailing trip was the idea of being in a remote place like Scolt Head Island. The kids were also very taken with the idea of spear fishing.
“We sailed out from Wells and then came in on the tide to Scolt Head Island. The trip was extremely well planned. There was an itinerary which gave us time to explore on our own and even have a nap in the dunes.
“Scolt Head Island is full of bird life, and the sand dunes are well formed. It’s a lovely place to be when the tide is out, and it’s all there to explore.
“We tried our best to spear fish with willow canes in the creeks and to catch mackerel. I didn’t catch anything but my son did. We also became obsessed with picking cockles. We picked so many that we came home with a large bucket of them and ate spaghetti vongole. We still had mountains left over!
“The highlight of the trip was swimming in the deep channel with my son and then heading back to base to consume a delicious picnic and mackerel that Henry had prepared.”
A Memorable Experience
Noa was thoroughly impressed with the Coastal Exploration Company and found Henry to be a knowledgeable and trustworthy guide.
“Henry factored in tide times, weather and the length of time we wanted to be out. The trip took a day in total; we came in on a tide and left on the next tide.
“Henry is the perfect guide. He clearly loves North Norfolk and boats, and that showed in the care he took on our journey.
“Overall, the experience was well worth it. All of us will remember Henry, the boat, and Scolt Head Island for many years to come.”
Booking Tips
A little planning can help ensure you get the most from your sailing adventure and choose the experience that’s right for you.
Choosing the right trip
Consider whether you’d prefer a leisurely sightseeing sail, a wildlife-focused excursion or a private charter. Different experiences offer varying routes and durations, allowing you to select the option that best suits your interests.
What to bring
Comfortable clothing, suitable footwear and a waterproof layer are recommended, as weather conditions can change quickly along the coast. Binoculars and a camera are also worthwhile additions for wildlife enthusiasts.
Best time of year to visit
Every season offers a different perspective on the North Norfolk coastline. Spring and summer bring longer daylight hours and active wildlife, while autumn and winter provide dramatic scenery and opportunities to spot migratory birds.
Booking in advance
Sailing trips are particularly popular during weekends, school holidays and the summer season. Booking ahead helps secure your preferred date and ensures availability, especially for private charters and larger groups.
Further Information
The Coastal Exploration Company offers three types of sailing trips to satisfy your desire for adventure. The trips include one-day trips, on-the-tide adventures and bespoke sailing trips. They are suitable for all, from families to couples.
The one-day trips typically last between four and 10 hours. These can include a wide range of activities, which can be discussed when booking.
On the tide, adventures can involve traditional sailing, sea and land navigation, survival skills, night navigation, wild swimming and foraging for food.
The bespoke trips can be arranged depending on your interests, whether it’s wildlife, adventure, or having a high-quality BBQ prepared on a remote beach after a long, leisurely sail.
Sailing trips run from May to October, but there is a possibility to arrange out-of-season trips on request.
Booking in advance is essential, so there is time to discuss the nature of the trip and plan according to weather and tides. As every trip is unique, there isn’t a standard pricing structure.
If you’re interested in a North Norfolk sailing trip, email [email protected], call 07970 276 397, or find out more on the Coastal Exploration Company website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do the tours last?
Trip lengths vary depending on the chosen experience, with options ranging from shorter sightseeing sails to longer coastal adventures. It’s worth checking individual trip details before booking.
Are trips suitable for children?
Many sailing experiences are suitable for families, making them an enjoyable way for children to discover North Norfolk’s coastline and wildlife. Parents should check any age recommendations when selecting a trip.
What should I wear?
Dress for the weather and wear comfortable, non-slip footwear suitable for being on deck. Even during warmer months, bringing an extra layer is advisable as conditions can feel cooler out on the water.
Can I see seals?
Seal sightings are one of the main attractions of many trips, although, as with all wildlife, they can never be guaranteed. The North Norfolk coast is one of the UK’s best places to observe seals in their natural habitat, giving visitors an excellent chance of seeing them during their excursion.
Where do the tours depart from?
Departure locations vary depending on the experience you’ve booked. Confirming your departure point and arrival time before travelling will help ensure a smooth start to your sailing adventure.
Explore North Norfolk’s Coastal Treasures
A sailing trip with the Coastal Exploration Company offers an unforgettable way to experience North Norfolk’s spectacular coastline. From peaceful voyages through salt marshes to memorable wildlife encounters and breathtaking coastal scenery, it’s an experience that showcases the region from an entirely different perspective.
After your time on the water, continue exploring North Norfolk with a stay at The Blakeney Cottage Company. Our collection of self-catering holiday cottages places you within easy reach of the coast’s charming villages, nature reserves and visitor attractions, providing the perfect base for your next seaside escape. Browse our cottages today and start planning your Norfolk adventure.