Chichester Ship Canal and Basin
Glide along the historic Chichester Ship Canal on a narrowboat cruise, spotting wildlife and enjoying serene waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Chichester Ship Canal and Basin
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Glide along the historic Chichester Ship Canal on a narrowboat cruise, spotting wildlife and enjoying serene waters.
"A lovely and relaxing little cruise along the Canal on a beautiful sunny day."
☕ Grab a Coffee
Enjoy a coffee with canal views at the basin cafe. :coffee:
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
Leashed dogs are welcome on walks along the canal path. :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Narrowboat Cruise
Chichester Ship Canal
Enjoy a peaceful 75-minute journey on a narrowboat, gliding through serene waters.
Wildlife Spotting
Along the canal banks
Keep an eye out for charming ducklings, graceful swans, and moorhens in their natural habitat.
Canal Basin Cafe
Chichester Canal Basin
Relax with a coffee or snack at the cafe, offering lovely views over the canal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Canal Cruise
Accessibility & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Grab a Coffee
Enjoy a coffee with canal views at the basin cafe. :coffee:
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
Leashed dogs are welcome on walks along the canal path. :dog:
🦆 Feed the Ducks
Bring some food for the ducklings and swans! :duck:
🚶♀️ Peaceful Walks
Enjoy a relaxing 4-mile walk from the basin to the marina. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Grab a Coffee
Enjoy a coffee with canal views at the basin cafe. :coffee:
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
Leashed dogs are welcome on walks along the canal path. :dog:
🦆 Feed the Ducks
Bring some food for the ducklings and swans! :duck:
🚶♀️ Peaceful Walks
Enjoy a relaxing 4-mile walk from the basin to the marina. :walking:
🚤 Support the Cause
Your cruise ticket helps maintain this historic waterway. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Chichester Ship Canal a peaceful and relaxing place for a day out, with many enjoying the boat cruises and wildlife spotting. While some feel the commentary on the cruises could be more engaging, the friendly staff and scenic beauty are consistently praised. It's seen as an inexpensive and enjoyable experience, particularly for families and dog owners.
"We had a nice day out in Chichester and visited the Ship Canal. We were excited to the a boat ride and support this great cause. Despite the fact that the setting for the experience are nice, the boat ride could do with a bit more. Some basic commentary about the history of the canal and some facts about nature would be appreciated. As a result of lack of engagement during the ride, whole felt a bit flat and long (and boring)."
Szymon Malecki-Willis
"We had a fun, inexpensive day out for my husband's birthday. It was a lovely and relaxing little cruise along the Canal on a beautiful sunny day. The staff on the boat were friendly and knowledgeable about the history of the Canal."
Leona Fuller
"Peqceful 4 mile walk from the Basin to the marina (1 ½ hours), perfect for walking (dogs included, on leads) & bike riding, spots for fishing
Can see the Cathedral from a few places, a couple of roads to cross
Cafe at the Basin, comes in handy
Close to the train & bus station
12 checkpoints (12 couldn't be found), but by the time you reach the marina, you're basically at the end
Swans, ducks & moorhens scattered across the canal"
Jonathan Hinton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The canal basin is conveniently located close to Chichester's train and bus stations, making it easily accessible by public transport. If driving, there are parking options nearby.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the canal basin. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and charges.
Absolutely! The canal path is suitable for cycling, offering a scenic route to the basin.
The canal path is generally good for walking, but some sections might be uneven. The basin area and cafe are usually accessible. It's best to check specific accessibility details for the boat tours.
Many visitors enjoy a combination of a canal boat cruise and a walk along the towpath. You can also rent rowboats for a more personal experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The canal cruises are described as inexpensive and a fun day out. Specific pricing details are best found on the official Chichester Ship Canal website or by contacting them directly.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to ensure you get a spot on the narrowboat for the 75-minute cruise.
The narrowboat cruises typically run daily between spring and autumn. It's essential to check the current schedule for specific operating times and dates.
Yes, the canal has celebrated significant anniversaries, like its 200th, with festivities. Keep an eye on their announcements for any upcoming events.
While dogs are welcome on leads along the canal path, it's best to confirm their policy regarding dogs on the narrowboat cruises directly with the canal operators.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The standard narrowboat cruise lasts approximately 75 minutes, offering a relaxing journey along the waterway.
You'll see lovely scenery, wildlife like swans and ducks, and enjoy a peaceful chug along the canal. Some visitors wished for more historical commentary.
Yes, there is a cafe located at the canal basin where you can get refreshments and enjoy views of the water.
You can enjoy peaceful walks or bike rides along the canal path, and there are spots for fishing. Renting a rowboat is also an option for a different perspective.
The canal offers picturesque views, especially with wildlife and boats. Early mornings or late afternoons can provide beautiful light for photos.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the charming narrowboats, the serene water reflections, and the abundant wildlife like swans and ducklings. The canal basin itself offers lovely shots. 
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the tranquil atmosphere of the canal.
Yes, you can take photos from the narrowboat during the cruise. Be mindful of other passengers and any safety instructions provided by the crew.
While not a single landmark, the bridges crossing the canal and the boats themselves make for great photographic subjects. You can also see the Cathedral from certain points.
Nature photography, landscape shots of the canal, and lifestyle photos capturing the relaxed boat life are popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The canal path is also great for a family walk or a gentle bike ride. The cafe at the basin provides a convenient spot for snacks and refreshments. It's an inexpensive and enjoyable day out that combines nature, a bit of history, and fun activities for all ages.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Cyclists
It's a relatively flat and well-maintained path, suitable for dogs on leads. You'll encounter plenty of wildlife and enjoy the tranquil waters. The path is also dotted with checkpoints, adding a fun element to your exploration.
🐶 Dog Owners
This allows dogs to enjoy the fresh air and scenery alongside their owners. While dogs are generally welcome on the grounds, it's always a good idea to confirm if they are permitted on the narrowboat cruises before booking, as policies can vary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Chichester Ship Canal: A Historic Waterway
Today, the canal is managed by volunteers and a dedicated trust, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The daily narrowboat cruises are a key part of its operation, offering visitors a unique perspective on this historic engineering feat and the surrounding natural beauty. Supporting these cruises directly contributes to the canal's upkeep.
Exploring the canal offers a blend of history and nature. Whether you're taking a leisurely boat trip, walking the towpath, or simply enjoying the cafe's ambiance, the Chichester Ship Canal provides a peaceful escape and a glimpse into maritime heritage.
Wildlife Encounters Along the Canal
+1These encounters add a special layer to any visit, whether you're on a boat cruise or enjoying a walk. The opportunity to observe these creatures in their natural environment is a highlight for many, offering a peaceful and engaging experience. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their habitats.
Beyond the waterfowl, the canal ecosystem supports other small creatures and plant life, contributing to its overall charm. The presence of wildlife makes the Chichester Ship Canal a wonderful spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Experiencing the Canal by Boat
While some visitors find the cruises to be a bit flat without extensive commentary, others praise the friendly and engaging nature of the crew, who are knowledgeable about the canal's history and local wildlife. The experience is often described as peaceful and enjoyable, especially on a sunny day.
For a more intimate experience, rowboats can also be hired, providing a hands-on way to explore the waterways and get up close with the ducklings.
Regardless of your choice, a boat trip is a quintessential way to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the Chichester Ship Canal. 
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit