The Centre provides Royal Yachting Association (RYA) dinghy sailing courses, RYA Powerboat courses and British Canoe Union (BCU) kayak courses on the ideally sheltered waters of Poole Harbour.

We believe that all of our courses offer excellent value for money. For example: RYA beginners sailing courses from £54, RYA Level 2 Powerboat courses from £215, and BCU beginners kayak courses from £40.  For a full list of RYA dinghy sailing and powerboat courses and BCU kayak courses follow the links.

Hamworthy Outdoor Education Centre is situated on the northern side of Poole Harbour in Hamworthy Park. It has direct access to one of the best and safest areas within Poole Harbour from its waterside premises.

The Centre is run by Poole Borough Council and works closely with both the Leisure Department and Education Department within the Authority. Although most of the Centre's work is with school groups during curriculum time and for In-Service training for teachers, the courses on this web site are for individuals and groups. The Centre is open all the year, including most school holiday periods on a day, non-residential basis. Safety boats, kayaks, canoes, single and double-handed sailing dinghies, specialist caving and climbing equipment are all provided. Buoyancy aids, waterproof jackets and trousers are also available for relevant courses.The Centre is heavily overbooked on most courses. Early application is advised.

The Centre is licenced by the Adventure Activities Licencing Authority to provide activities under all 4 of the main headings of: Watersports, Climbing, Caving and Trekking.

Licence details for the Centre can be confirmed by contacting the A.A.L.A. on the above link.