Skip to main content

Elphinstone slipway

The slipway is free for public use for the launching and recovery of most small boats including those launched from trailers. Cars may access the slip for launching and recovery but should not be left parked on the main slip.

Launching trolleys can be left against the sloping east wall of the slip as long as they do not obstruct any of the slipway.

Slipway information

  • Located at Barbican/Sutton Harbour (map grid references SX 4829 5379)
  • 6 to 12 metres wide L shape slipway, there's a flat section at the turn of the L which is awash for an hour either side of high water
  • Provides access to the water at most states of the tide
  • At the very lowest spring tides there is an exposed disused sewage pipe
  • The slip flattens out to mud extending for 10 metres at the lowest tides

How to get there

From Madeira Road take the entrance to the Elphinstone car park. Turn left into the Elphinstone Dinghy Park and the access to the slip is located to the left of this. There are no obstructions preventing access to the slipway.

Parking

A large pay and display car park is available at Elphinstone car park.

Toilets

Public toilets are at the entrance to Elphinstone dinghy park.

Local facilities

There are various food and retail outlets located nearby in the Barbican.

Additional information

There are speed limits in the Sutton Channel of 4 knots and in the Cattewater of 8 knots. Boats must not make a wake until they are out of the Sound beyond the Mount Batten Breakwater.