Whitstable’s boat graveyard

With summer fast approaching, Whitstable Beach is the ideal location for tourists and locals to kick back and relax.

Yet this year, many of us might be shocked to share the shore with forgotten boats left over from a previous summer’s fun.

With a lack of suitable storage and costly maintenance bills, these crafts are often left behind by their owners.

Exposed to the elements in the harsh winter months, the rotting decks, broken sails and moulding plastic from kayaks and dinghies leave behind an unsightly trail of damage and disrepair.

But more than just being an eyesore, these forgotten boats can pose a serious threat to businesses and wildlife which can all impact the type of experience we take away from the coast.

The Canterbury Hub explored these effects below:

Environmental hazards

Derelict vessels left on the beach can become large polluters as toxins from peeling paints and corroding metals get released onto the beach and into the water. Substances like fiberglass and microplastics can also find their way into the natural environment and disrupt the habitat of species local to the coast, such as oysters and grey herons.

Public safety

Whilst these structures may look enticing to explore, unsecured boats can be unstable and pose a large risk to people if they get too close. From cuts and bruises caused by sharp and ragged wood to infections caused by rusty nails, these structures can be a big threat to public safety and are best left alone.

Economic opportunities

These forgotten crafts aren’t left without cost. Removing what won’t be collected is costly, but if they are left, their displeasing appearance can deter tourists from taking up a spot on the shore and instead push them to neighbouring coasts. This means the small town of Whitstable loses valuable revenue that could be reinvested in smartening up businesses and funding local community projects.

So if you are looking to take to the Whitstable waters this summer, don’t worry about bringing your own boat as we have already got you covered.

Featured image credit: Author