Jurassic Coast Explorer (half day)

Loading available options...

Overview

  • Duration:3 hours 30 minutes
  • Travelers:15 guests
  • Tour Type:Cruise Excursion (From Portland)
  • Language:English
  • Start Time:09.30 AM
  • Activitly Level:Easy
Escape the crowds and discover the dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and breathtaking scenery of the Jurassic Coast on this half-day adventure from Portland.

We begin by climbing to the top of the Isle of Portland for sweeping views across the famous 18 miles of Chesil Beach. Here you can see the Olympic Rings and take in one of Dorset’s most iconic panoramas.

Next, we visit Portland Bill Lighthouse at the rugged southern tip of the island, where the dramatic cliffs and open sea showcase the raw beauty of the English Channel.

Leaving Portland behind, we travel along the coast to the world famous Durdle Door. Cameras ready, this natural limestone arch is one of Britain’s most photographed landmarks.

Then we head to the picturesque Lulworth Cove, where you can admire the perfectly curved bay shaped by nature over millions of years.

This half day shore excursion is timed to your ship and ends in Weymouth, where you can take the free shuttle back to port at your leisure.
Read more

Please Note: This tour finishes in the picturesque town of Weymouth, where you will have free time to explore before taking the complimentary shuttle back to your ship. Your guide will show you exactly where to catch the shuttle at the end of your tour.

Highlights

  • Take in panoramic views from the Olympic Rings on the Isle of Portland, overlooking the sweeping 18 miles of Chesil Beach.
  • Visit iconic Durdle Door and picturesque Lulworth Cove, two of the Jurassic Coast’s most famous natural landmarks.
  • Enjoy free time in charming Weymouth harbour, with an easy shuttle return to your ship at your leisure.

Itinerary

Expand all

Starting time & location: Portland Castle

9:30am – Portland Castle Meeting Point

Please take the free shuttle bus from the port to Portland Castle, where we will be waiting to welcome you as you step off the shuttle. The journey takes only around three minutes and is very straightforward.

Please note: if your ship arrives later than 9:30am, we will adjust the tour to fit your actual arrival and departure times, so there is no need to worry.

Isle of Portland (Olympic Rings)

After our morning departure, our first stop is the Isle of Portland, where we ascend 500 feet above sea level to unveil the breathtaking Chesil Beach and the Portland Olympic Rings! Spanning 18 miles, this beach beautifully links Portland to the mainland.

Portland Bill

After the Olympic Rings we visit the iconic Portland Bill Lighthouse and take in sweeping views from the southernmost tip of the Jurassic Coast — a dramatic and rugged landscape steeped in maritime history.

35-minute scenic drive through Dorset countryside

Travelling

Durdle Door

You’ll be guided on a short walk to the world famous limestone archway, a well-preserved natural wonder! Enjoy taking photos or just admire the stunning views!

Lulworth Cove

Take a scenic walk to the horseshoe-shaped cove, over 10,000 years old, and explore the quaint coffee shops along the way. Don’t forget to visit the visitor centre for more fascinating details on this 180 million year old coastline!

25-minute scenic drive to the Jurassic Coast

Travelling

Drop off

Weymouth harbour

Includes/Excludes

  • English-speaking guide
  • Parking fees
  • Bottled water
  • Entrance fees
  • Gratuities
  • Lunch / snacks

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation is available up to 48 hours before the activity start time. If you cancel within 48 hours of departure, or fail to attend, no refund will be issued.

More than 48 hours’ notice before the tour: 100% refund
Less than 48 hours’ notice before the tour: No refund

No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after the scheduled departure time.

Ship Unable to Dock

In the event that your ship is unable to dock due to bad weather or an itinerary change, you will be entitled to a full refund.

Please note: Stripe, our payment processing provider, may retain a processing fee of up to 3.25% to 4.9%, which is beyond our control.

Tour Map

Frequently asked questions

Meeting Times & How to get to us?

Finding Us at Portland Port

Portland Port is a working commercial port, so guests are not permitted to walk around independently. A complimentary shuttle bus operates during cruise hours.

Where to Meet Us
We meet at historic Portland Castle, which is located just outside the main port gates.

How to Get There
After leaving your ship, simply take the free blue shuttle bus. The journey takes approximately 3 minutes and drops you close to Portland Castle, where we will be waiting to welcome you.

Tour Timing
All of our tours are carefully planned around your ship’s arrival and departure times. If your ship’s schedule changes, we will adjust the tour accordingly.

Any questions?
Email Sally at info@dorsettours.com

Our ship arrives later than the tour start time?

If your ship arrives later than our tour start times, we will adjust the tour to fit your actual arrival and departure times, so there is no need to worry.

What is your cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 48 hours before the activity start time. If you cancel within 48 hours of departure, or fail to attend, no refund will be issued.

More than 48 hours’ notice before the tour: 100% refund
Less than 48 hours’ notice before the tour: No refund

No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after the scheduled departure time.

Ship Unable to Dock

In the event that your ship is unable to dock due to bad weather or an itinerary change, you will be entitled to a full refund.

Please note: Stripe, our payment processing provider, may retain a processing fee of up to 3.25% to 4.9%, which is beyond our control.

Do you have minimum group numbers?

Yes.

Like many small tour companies, we do require a minimum number of passengers to run any of our tours.

If the number of passengers is not met you will be notified around 72 hours before your tour departure and offered an alternative date. *Subject to availability.

If we need to cancel your tour due to insufficient numbers, you will be refunded in full.

What to Expect on Your Tour

Our tours are guided, with time to explore independently. At each stop, your guide will provide an engaging introduction to the location, including its history, geology, and key points of interest, helping you make the most of your visit.

You will then have free time to explore at your own pace before we continue to the next stop on the itinerary.

Mobility & Accessibility

Our tours vary depending on the locations and sites visited, and some may be more suitable than others depending on individual mobility needs. Please note that some walking is necessary to access certain sites along the Jurassic Coast.

We are always happy to advise. Please contact a member of our team by email to discuss any concerns, and we will help you choose the most appropriate option.
Guest

You can select up to 15 travelers in total.

AdultAge 13+
-+

Please select guests

Apply
Make enquiry

Having trouble booking your preferred date? Tap “Make enquiry” and we’ll reserve it manually.

Why Book This Tour?
Half Day Tour
Jurassic Coast Highlights
Small Group Tour
Explore Weymouth
TA_green_winner-gif_LL_2025_small
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Visiting the Jurassic Coast & having free time in Weymouth was perfect!” – Jean | CAN

You might also like...

© 2025 Uxper. All right reserved.