South Coast Shipwreck Heritage Paddle

Aim

Supporting the Nautical Archaeology Society by kayaking the south coast to raise unrestricted funds to protect our underwater heritage.

For as long as I can remember, I have had two fascinations. History and the sea.

I have decided to kayak 44 nautical miles (50 miles / 81km) from Brighton to Fort Cumberland, near Portsmouth (home of the Nautical Archaeology Society) between the 6th and 9th of July. 

This stretch of the south coast from the Seven Sisters to the Solent passes the sites of many ships lost to the sea.

Nautical and Maritime Archaeology is as close as you can get to our seafairing past. Not just the stories written in books, but the hidden history that still lies beneath the sea. Shipwrecks are extraordinary time capsules. They preserve moments of human courage, trade, exploration and tragedy in a way few other archaeological sites can. Every wreck has a story waiting to be discovered and protected.

Over many years of diving, kayaking and exploring the coast, I have developed a deep appreciation not only for the sea itself, but for the fragile underwater heritage that surrounds the British coastline. Through my involvement with the Nautical Archaeology Society, I have seen first-hand the incredible work carried out by volunteers, researchers and educators to document, protect and share this history with the public. Much of this work happens quietly and without fanfare, yet it is vital if future generations are to understand and preserve our maritime past.

I wanted to undertake a challenge that felt personally meaningful and genuinely connected to the charity’s mission. Kayaking from Brighton to Portsmouth seemed the perfect fit: a journey along a coastline rich in maritime history, historic harbours and wreck sites, travelled slowly and under my own power. It is a reminder of how connected Britain’s history has always been to the sea.

I am raising unrestricted funds because these are the hardest funds for charities to secure, yet often the most important. They allow the Nautical Archaeology Society to support essential work wherever the need is greatest — from education and outreach, to heritage protection, research and volunteer development.

This challenge will undoubtedly involve long days, changing weather, fatigue and sore muscles, but it is nothing compared to the dedication shown by those who work to preserve our shared maritime heritage. If this journey helps raise awareness and support for that mission, every mile will be worthwhile.

Every donation (however small) helps the Nautical Archaeology Society continue its work protecting vulnerable maritime heritage, training volunteers, supporting research and inspiring new generations to explore Britain’s, and the world's, relationship with the sea.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 31st July 2026 at 11:59pm