An Oyster Boat which was rescued from a rotting wreck in Chichester is celebrating a landmark year of sailings.

Terror, a 125-year-old wooden sailing boat, has hosted over 5,000 people on its deck since being restored by the Chichester Harbour Conservancy in 2005. The oyster boat can be seen sailing the waters of Chichester from May to October with 2026 marking the 20th year of public sailing since it was lovingly restored.

It was a part of a fleet of oyster boats which operated from Emsworth at the end of the 19th and early 20th centuries before the oyster trade fell away in the early 1900s. Now up to six passengers at a time can enjoy a two-to-three hour trip from Emsworth Yacht Harbour, giving them a unique look at the scenery and wildlife that the coastline has to offer.

Last year, it added sailing from Itchenor, a move that will be brought back for 2026.

A Friends of Chichester Harbour spokesperson said: “After the success in 2025 of operating Terror from Itchenor for two weeks at the height of the season to coincide with the Festival of Chichester, Terror will once again be offering two trips a day from Itchenor Jetty between June 23 and July 6.

“These sailings from Itchenor will enable passengers to see a wholly different area of Chichester Harbour, including Bosham, Dell Quay, the Chidham and Thorney Channels, East Head and Hayling Island.

“Whichever departure point is chosen, passengers will learn from the crew all about the famous Emsworth oyster trade and its demise in the early 1900’s as well as hearing about the abundant wildlife of Chichester Harbour. Passengers are also encouraged to take the helm and experience the thrill of handling the last remaining example of a traditional gaff-rigged working boat, now beautifully restored.”

The boat is operated by a team of volunteers from the charity Friends of Chichester Harbour with every penny of the booking fee going towards preserving the Terror for future generations.

Further information on the boat and how to book a trip can be found at www.oysterboatterror.org.uk.

The News 15th April