Weymouth Harbour is experiencing a marked decline in fishing vessel activity, especially throughout August. Harbour master Ed Carter has attributed this downturn to a combination of factors including tighter catch quotas, rising operational costs, workforce shortages, and various environmental challenges.
“The difficulties confronting the fishing industry appear set to continue,” Carter stated.
Despite the reduced fishing activity, the new fish landing quay has been well-utilized, particularly the chilled catch storage facilities primarily serving vessels shipping their catches to the Brixham fish markets.
READ MORE: Community Rallies to Save Historic Ivy Inn with Share Offer
READ MORE: Neighbour’s Alarm as Hot Air Balloon Nearly Lands on Bath Homes
During a recent Dorset Council harbours advisory committee meeting, Carter outlined several improvements made at the harbour, including upgraded ice-making facilities, additional space for fishing gear storage, dedicated areas for net repairs, and bins for disposing of unwanted materials.
Commercial berth occupancy remains robust, hovering just below full capacity. Meanwhile, leisure boat occupancy peaked at 92.4% during the summer season, maintaining levels consistent with the previous year.
Carter noted that the rising cost of living has likely influenced a shift in vessel preferences, with increased demand for smaller boats around six metres in length, while interest in larger vessels has declined.
Visitor vessel numbers were slightly lower in June, July, and August compared to last year. However, favorable weather encouraged more local vessels to transit through the harbour bridge and use the slipway.
Highlighting recent events, Carter praised the popular visit of the paddle vessel Waverley in early September, which attracted around 3,000 people enjoying various trips. Plans are in place to welcome the vessel back in the future.
Looking ahead, the tall ship Victoria is set to visit the harbour during the upcoming pirate festival in early October, promising further excitement for the local maritime community.