RHIB to the Blades: A Close‑Up Ride Through the Rampion Windfarm

NEWHAVEN BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

RHIB to the Blades: A Close‑Up Ride Through the Rampion Windfarm

A two‑hour RHIB trip from Newhaven that combines an adrenaline coastal crossing with guided learning about Sussex dolphins and offshore turbines—useful for travelers who want a compact, conservation‑minded outing.

RHIB to the Blades: A Close‑Up Ride Through the Rampion Windfarm.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Newhaven
Operator
Sussex Dolphin Project
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Sussex Dolphin Project runs an exhilarating RHIB ride from Newhaven marina out across the eight‑mile stretch to the Rampion Windfarm, where passengers float among the turbines, learn about local dolphins and marine life, and cruise to the windfarm base station before returning along the coast past Brighton.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE WILDLIFE

Spot and learn about Sussex dolphins

The trip is led with an educational focus on local dolphins and marine life, with proceeds supporting the Sussex Dolphin Project’s research and conservation work.

THE ENGINEERING

Cruise among the Rampion turbines

You’ll pause among the blades and make a circuit through the turbines to the windfarm base station, gaining a direct view of offshore renewable infrastructure in operation.

THE ROUTE

A brisk RHIB crossing and coastal arc

The outing includes an exhilarating RHIB ride across the eight‑mile channel out to the windfarm, then returns along the coast, arcing past Brighton en route back to Newhaven.

What the day feels like

What the trip actually feels like

Operated by the Sussex Dolphin Project in partnership with local boat operators, the outing is a tight, two‑hour RHIB ride: a brisk launch from Newhaven marina, a lively crossing to the Rampion turbines where the boat pauses so guides can talk about dolphins and the windfarm, a close cruise to the base station, then a coastal return that takes in Brighton before coming back to Newhaven.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits—and who should think twice.

1
Active families (children 10+)Recommended for families with children aged 10 years and above; the outing is family‑friendly but requires children to be at least 10.
2
Adventure seekersGood for visitors who enjoy brisk, open‑boat rides and close encounters with offshore structures and wildlife; expect an energetic RHIB crossing.
3
People with limited mobilityNot ideal for anyone unable to step on and off the vessel unaided — passengers should alert the skipper to mobility issues before boarding.
4
Families with younger children (under 10)Not a match — the outing requires participants to be aged 10 years or older.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The experience is scheduled as a two‑hour outing.

What to Bring

All boats are outside‑only; bring weather‑appropriate clothing, wear suitable footwear (no flip‑flops or heels), and wear shorts or trousers rather than skirts or dresses since life jackets are provided.

Logistics & Meeting Point

Boarding is at West Quay, Newhaven — arrive prepared to step on and off the RHIB and alert the skipper in advance if you have mobility concerns.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the trip?

The trip runs for approximately two hours.

Where do we meet?

Meet at West Quay, Newhaven marina for boarding.

Is there an age limit for children?

Yes — passengers must be aged 10 years and above.

What should I wear and bring?

Because boats are outside‑only, bring weather‑appropriate clothing, wear sturdy footwear (no flip‑flops or heels), and avoid skirts or dresses as you will wear a life jacket.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Trips are weather‑dependent; if the skipper deems conditions unsafe the trip may be changed or cancelled and you will be contacted to discuss options.

Where do the proceeds go?

All profits directly fund the Sussex Dolphin Project’s work studying and protecting the local dolphin population and marine ecosystems.