Sailing into Millford Haven with a dog

jenwhelan234
Aug 15
3 min read

Updated: Oct 1

Our night sail from Aberystwyth to Milford Haven was anything but dull. To avoid the strong currents through Ramsey Sound, we took the outside route, a path that came with its own challenge: rough, confused seas where two water flows collided. The yacht rolled and pitched like a washing machine, but the mood lifted when a pod of dolphins appeared, leaping through the waves. I managed to catch some of the action on video, though I missed the highlight, a young calf’s twisting somersault - magic!

Milford Haven, on the Pembrokeshire coast, is one of the UK’s largest natural deep-water harbours. It combines the energy of a busy working port with the comfort of a modern marina, excellent visitor facilities, and easy access to some of Wales’ most spectacular coastline. We weren’t the only ones enjoying South Wales’ beauty- unbeknown to Pete, Phil and his daughter had been tracking our journey and, while camping nearby, decided to surprise us with a visit. It was such a joy to see you both.

⚓ The Approach

Milford Haven’s entrance is wide and straightforward, making it accessible in most conditions. The approach runs through a deep channel, well-marked with navigation buoys.

Waypoint: Enter between West Blockhouse and St Ann’s Head, then follow the buoyed channel east towards the marina.
Hazards: Watch for commercial traffic — oil tankers and ferries have priority and restricted manoeuvrability. We were lucky, with no marine traffic except just a couple of tugs, preparing for a cargo ship.
Timing: Milford Haven is navigable at all states of tide, but strong tidal streams can run at the entrance, especially on springs. We had a bit of a bumpy ride - but nothing like Ramsey Sounds.

The marina is tucked into the north side of the Haven, with a lock gate providing all-weather shelter and floating berths. The picture below was taken at free-flow.

🛟 Harbour Policy on Dogs

Milford Marina is dog-friendly. Staff ask that dogs are kept on a lead in the marina area and on pontoons. There are waste bins along the waterfront, and the marina office is happy to provide water bowls if needed. There is someone on duty here 24/7 which is very useful.

🐾 Dog Walks from the Marina

Milford Haven offers great variety for a shore walk:

Milford Waterfront Promenade – An easy, flat stroll along the marina edge, dotted with cafés and benches. You can make this a circular walk when the lock is closed, as it circumnavigates the entire harbour. There is a great fishmongers just over the lock, for provisioning, as well as a large Tesco, close to the marina entrance.
Pill Nature Walk – A scenic loop along the wooded banks of Castle Pill inlet. This walk took us far longer than it should due thousands of ripe blackberries paving the way.

Hakin Point – A peaceful grassy area overlooking the Haven, ideal for a sunset walk.

🍻 Dog-Friendly Pubs & Cafes

The Milford Haven waterfront is lined with eateries and bars that welcome dogs, so we were not short of options:

Martha's Vinyard – A stylish pub and restaurant overlooking the marina, with dog-friendly seating inside and out. As it was situated straight opposite the marina exit gate, it was our first port of call. Food served from 5pm - It's worth booking a table as it gets extremely busy with sailors. Mia - see picture above, as well as other locals enjoyed Svea's company.
SALT seafood bar and grill - Lovely views over the beach and dog friendly inside and out - see image above.
The Harbormaster - bar and grill situated on the corner of the promenade. Stunning views and good food. Svea was given several water bowls - thank you.
Spinnaker Café – Great breakfasts and coffee, dogs welcome.
The Crow’s Nest Cafe – Breakfast, brunch and lunch with great views, and a relaxed atmosphere for dogs. Closes at 5pm.
Foam – Trendy café with fresh bakes, light lunches, and a love for visiting pooches.

🌊 Why Stop Here?

Milford Haven is the perfect blend of practicality and Pembrokeshire beauty. With its safe, well-equipped marina, stunning coastal walks, and famously dog-friendly hospitality, it’s a welcome haven for sailors. In our case, it wasn’t just a choice, it was the only real option in this stretch of coast, with few other marinas available. Our stay was brief but memorable, and as we slipped lines for Ilfracombe, we were already gearing up for another night sail.

Verdict: Svea gave Milford Haven an eight paw review 🐾🐾🐾🐾.