Littlehampton Harbour is a gateway to the River Arun valley. Navigation is possible for small craft as far as Stopham Road Bridge, a distance of 20 miles. There are, however, several low bridges to negotiate if attempting this passage and at low water shallows will be found at Warningcamp, Ford, North of Stoke Bridge, the Black Rabbit Hotel and in the vicinity of Offham Bridge. Mariners attempting this passage will find it most rewarding as there is an abundance of flora and fauna.
The recently installed pontoon in the centre of Arundel provides an excellent berthing facility. Call the Edible Sandwich Company 01903 885969 in advance and a member of staff will open the gate.
Tidal differences on the river are +25 minutes at Ford, +50 minutes at Arundel, +1 hour 30 minutes at Houghton Bridge and +4 hours at Pulburough. In view of these tidal differences, to make the best of your time, leave Littlehampton one hour before high water and transit up river on the flood stream. This will give you an hour at Pulborough before you must depart for the return to Littlehampton. Delaying your return will increase the risk of grounding in the shallow areas.
Tide gauges are situated at Littlehampton on the West Pier, Speedboat Steps, the Scrubbing Piles, Town Quay, the footbridge and Railway Wharf. There are also gauges adjacent to Houghton Bridge, at Greatham Road Bridge, the Old Swan Bridge and Stopham Road Bridge.
Littlehampton tide gauges are set to Littlehampton Chart Datum and all others to Ordnance Datum.