MV Freedom- Wheelchair Accessible Boat, Weymouth
The MV Freedom provides accessible boat trips in Weymouth.
What Is MV Freedom?
MV Freedom is a charity, run by volunteers. They have a specially built modern 10 metres, wheelchair accessible catamaran to enable disabled people (inclusive of all disabilities) to experience the sea.
Where Are the Boat Trips From and to?
The MV Freedom moors at Weymouth Harbour, where there is wheelchair accessible jetty/pontoon down to the boat. It is a bit of an incline, so I would recommend going down it with someone. The volunteers open the gate which is locked and will help you/go with you down to ensure your safety.
The trips vary taking passengers out onto the sea, from Portland harbour to Lulworth Cove, via Durdle Door.
When Do the Boat Trips Run and How Long Are the Boat Trips?
The boat trips run morning and afternoon sessions, Monday-Friday from April-October and are normally 2 hours long. You need to book it in advance via telephone 07974 266867.
Who Is it For and How Many People Can the Boat Hold?
The MV freedom boat trips are for disabled people (from the age of 5) including wheelchair users and their friends and family. The boat can hold 12 passengers in total, including 4 wheelchair users and 3 crew members.
How Much Does it Cost?
It costs between £17000-£20000 to run the MV Freedom each year.
They ask that you give a minimum of £5 donation per person for the trip.
Additional Information
There is an onboard toilet, which is helpful. Wheelchairs are secured on the boat and everyone is provided with a lifejacket.
My Experience of the MV Freedom
Whilst on holiday I went on the MV Freedom with my Mum and Dad and thoroughly enjoyed it. I hadn’t been on the sea since I was 14 taking the ferry on a school German exchange trip when I was first ill. So, 18 years ago! I had completely forgotten what it was like to be out in the open. The ‘fresh’ air. The simple pleasures of the cool wind blowing in my face and seeing the waves. The froth and bubbles caused when the boat went faster. The motion of going up and down with the waves. It evoked a forgotten memory in me.
Due to wind directions, we stayed near to Portland. We saw seals and they said sometimes they see dolphins, (that was always a childhood dream of mine). Lots of boats and coastal views We saw the police and they even gave us a siren, blue lights on and a cheery wave from their boat!
The volunteers were very interactive, chatting and pointing things of interest out, putting their guests at ease.
Driving the Boat
On the way back, all the passengers got the opportunity to drive the boat. The more mobile passengers went into the cabin and took control (with guidance) of the wheel.
For wheelchair users they have a controller from which you can drive the boat and an iPad you can use to see the camera view in front of the boat and behind the boat, as well as the coordinates and map. So, I drove the boat! You would be pleased to know we all returned safely! I even navigated through the harbour walls and avoided a sailing dingy.
It was a wonderful experience and I would definitely recommend it. The volunteers were so welcoming and friendly, which also makes all the difference.
Check out my video on the MV Freedom below:
Hannah x
You may be interested in reading my blog post: Ellwood cottages, Dorset-My Review
2 Comments
Shani
Interested for a trip for my mother in law. Could you please let me know next availabilty over a weekend. How many people can accompany her. We are a family of 6.
Hannah Deakin
The boat is big enough to accommodate that number of people. The best number to contact is: 07974 266867. They get quite booked up so may need to be in advance but fingers crossed for you. Hannah x