Ocean waves under cloudy sky
Moored boat on calm water next to wooden dock, tree in background, black and white photo.

WHO WE ARE

Little Avon Marina is a family-owned boatyard with a rich history, originally built in the 1970s and The Boat Shed recognized with an architectural award. The land has been in our family for generations, and in April 2025, we will enter an exciting new chapter under new management. Our new manager brings over 10 years of boat-building expertise and is dedicated to maintaining and improving the site while supporting our boating community.

With secure moorings, dry berths, and a state-of-the-art trolley system, we offer a seamless experience for boat owners, whether you're carrying out maintenance yourself, working with a contractor, or using our professional wash and buff service.

Our vision is to make Little Avon Marina a small but beautiful marina that truly cares for and nurtures the local boating community—a place where boat owners can store, maintain, and enjoy their vessels with ease.

close-up of water droplets splashing
Aerial view of a marina with boats in black and white

ABOUT Christchurch

Christchurch, Dorset, is a historic coastal town known for its stunning rivers, natural harbors, and easy access to the sea. It sits at the confluence of the River Avon and River Stour, both of which flow into Christchurch Harbour, creating a unique and picturesque setting for boating, watersports, and marine activities.

The Rivers

  • River Avon – A beautiful and gently flowing river that runs through the countryside before reaching Christchurch. It provides a scenic and sheltered route for boats, kayaks, and paddleboards.

  • River Stour – A larger river that also meets Christchurch Harbour, offering stunning views and excellent wildlife spotting along its banks.

Christchurch Harbour

  • A tidal natural harbor, protected by Hengistbury Head and Mudeford Sandbank.

  • Popular for boating, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing.

  • Provides access to the open sea via the famous "The Run," a narrow entrance leading to the English Channel.

Access to the Sea

From Christchurch, boaters can easily reach the Solent and Isle of Wight, making it a prime location for sailing and coastal adventures. The waters around Hengistbury Head and Mudeford are well-known for their natural beauty, great fishing spots, and fantastic sailing conditions.

Why Christchurch is a Boater’s Paradise

  • A mix of calm rivers, a sheltered harbor, and direct sea access.

  • Rich marine history and vibrant boating community.

  • Plenty of moorings, marinas, and boatyards catering to all types of vessels.

Black and white image of a wooden boathouse by a river, with moored boats and surrounding trees.

The boat shed

Established in 1970, our boatshed is currently undergoing a full reconditioning and will be fully operational by April 2025. Designed to accommodate both small and large projects at an affordable cost, it offers a convenient and well-equipped space for boat maintenance and repairs.

We are committed to providing a top-tier service to help you maintain and repair your vessel. Using our efficient pulley system, we can effortlessly lift your boat from the water, allowing you or your contractor to begin work immediately. Whether you're carrying out routine maintenance, structural repairs, or a full restoration, our facility is designed to support your needs.

The boatshed is fully equipped with running water, electricity, and lighting, so you can work comfortably in all weather conditions—no excuses!

Please note that contractor services are available on-site, with a fee applied per job. Our goal is to ensure that every boat owner has access to a reliable and professional space to keep their vessel in prime condition.