Moorings Options on the River Arun

Choosing the right mooring on the River Arun isn’t just about where you tie up — it’s about access, facilities, security and the people around you. Whether you’re heading out regularly or enjoying relaxed river time, the right base makes all the difference.

While the River Arun offers several berthing options, Littlehampton Yacht Club moorings stand out for combining practicality, value, and a strong boating community. Below, we’ll look at why LYC is such a popular choice — and how it compares with other moorings along the river, including Arun Yacht Club, Littlehampton Marina, Harbour Board moorings, and The Ship and Anchor at Ford.

Littlehampton Yacht Club Moorings – The Most Versatile Choice on the Arun

Littlehampton Yacht Club

Littlehampton Yacht Club (LYC) offers some of the best all-round moorings on the River Arun, welcoming both sailing and motor vessels. Located close to the river month, it provides excellent access upriver and toward the harbour entrance for the sea. 

Why Littlehampton Yacht Club works so well

• Excellent value compared with commercial marinas and operators. 

• Secure pontoon moorings with gated access - members have access at all times. 

• Suitable for yachts, motorboats, and mixed-use craft

• Strong, friendly boating community

• Clubhouse, showers, toilets, and social space

• Ideal base for RYA training with Seahorse Marine School (water and shore-based courses)

• Parking included with membership 

• Free tea, coffee and WIFI on site for members

• Slipway - Jetskis are able to launch at most times of the day and tide height 

• Boats can be launched +/- 2 hours of high tide. 

• Free hardstanding storage for moored boats over the winter (included in annual mooring fees)

• Moorings dry at low tide - easy access for maintenance of your boat on the sand.

  
  

What really sets LYC apart is its inclusive approach. Whether you’re a sailor, motorboater, trainee, or experienced skipper, the club caters for a wide range of boating styles — making it one of the most flexible mooring options on the River Arun.

Other Berthing Options on the River Arun:

Arun Yacht Club – Social & Sail-Focused

Arun Yacht Club

Arun Yacht Club is another well-known club on the river, particularly among sailing enthusiasts. It has a strong social calendar and a long-established presence on the Arun.

Best for: 

• Good social scene

• Licensed bar and active clubhouse

• Strong sailing-focused membership

Consider:

• Moorings and membership often have a waiting list

• Sailing yachts only — does not cater for motorboats

• Less suitable for mixed-use or power-boating / jet skis. 

• All the moorings dry out at low tide.

  
  

Arun Yacht Club can be an excellent fit if you are purely a sailing enthusiast and happy to wait for availability. However, for boat owners wanting immediate access, motorboat support, or broader flexibility, it may not be the most practical choice.

Littlehampton Marina – Fully Serviced & Convenient

Littlehampton Marina

Littlehampton Marina offers pontoon berths north of the red footbridge, with shore power and full marina services. No yacht moorings are available as red bridge needs 24 hours notice to open to let yachts through. 

Best for:

• Motor Boat owners who prioritise convenience 

• Mostly deep water moorings 

• Fuel pontoon available to the public

Consider:

• Higher costs and a more commercial feel compared with a club environment.

• Access to moorings and slipway is working hours roughly 9-5pm. 

Littlehampton Harbour Board Moorings

Littlehampton Harbour Board

These deep water moorings are managed by the harbour board on the East bank of the River Arun.  

Best for:

• Convenience to the town centre

• Deep water on the river side of the pontoons. 

Consider:

• Costs with limited facilities and community. 

• No parking provided with the mooring so must use pay and display car parks. 

Ford – Ship and Anchor Pub Moorings – Quiet & Scenic

Ship and Anchor Pub

Upriver at Ford, moorings near the Ship and Anchor pub offer a peaceful alternative.

Best for:

• Smaller boats and relaxed river cruising

• Step ashore straight into a riverside pub

Consider: 

• A long way to the coast and sea cruising

• No yachts or higher motor boats as bridges restrict boat heights. 

  
  

Annual Mooring Costs on the River Arun (Typical Guide for 6m long boat)

• Littlehampton Yacht Club: ~£1,350 - £1700 

• Arun Yacht Club: similar range, subject to availability

• Littlehampton Marina: ~£2,500

• Harbour Board moorings: ~£2300- £2700

• Ford / pub moorings: ~£1850

  
  

LYC continues to offer one of the best value-for-money combinations of security, access, and facilities on the river.

Final Thoughts: Why Littlehampton Yacht Club Is the Most Balanced Option

The River Arun caters for many boating styles — but not all moorings are equal. While Arun Yacht Club shines socially for sailors, and the marina delivers convenience at a price, Littlehampton Yacht Club remains the most versatile and inclusive option.

With secure moorings, fair pricing, and a welcoming community for both sail and motor boats, LYC is ideally placed for anyone who wants more than just somewhere to tie up.

If you’re looking for a mooring that supports your boating  Littlehampton Yacht Club are here to help.