Sailing into Portaferry with a dog

After a steady cruise south, our arrival in Portaferry marked the gateway to Strangford Lough. This narrow, tidal-charged channel is steeped in history and lined with colourful buildings. The sail in was beautiful, but it wasn’t without its challenges...

🌊 The Approach to Strangford Lough

The entrance to Strangford Lough is known as The Narrows, and for good reason. The tide here can run at over 8 knots! Getting it wrong can be dangerous. We planned carefully and entered three hours before high water. With the current pushing 8 knots, Rimau hit a SOG of 11, and we flew up the river.

As we came through the Narrows, we passed Portaferry Castle on the port side and found a berth at Portaferry Marina. It’s right in town and well-sheltered. Dolphins welcomed us into the harbour and continued to play throughout the evening.

AI again helped identify the dolphins, stating that "Bottlenose dolphins are frequently seen in Strangford Lough, especially near the tidal rips." They hunt fish using sonar and sometimes work together to herd schools of prey, which is probably what the third picture above captured.

As well as amazing wildlife, both Portaferry and Strangford are famous for their castles. Several of these have featured in Game of Thrones. It was time to explore!

🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks in Portaferry

Portaferry is a paradise for dog owners! Here are some of our favourite walks:

• Windmill Hill Walk – This is our absolute favourite. From the marina, head uphill past the residential area to the old windmill tower. It’s a short but steep climb that rewards you with panoramic views over Strangford Lough, the Mournes in the distance, and down the Irish Sea. Svea had a good run in the long grass, and Pete trained Jen in preparation for her Police fitness test next month.

  
  

• Shore Walk to Ballyhenry Bay – Turn left as you leave the marina and follow the coastal footpath along the shore. It winds past little beaches and rocky coves. It was totally quiet, except for the sound of seabirds.

  
  

• The Green Opposite the Marina – For quick morning or evening walks, there’s a grassy common directly across from the pontoons. It’s flat, open, and just right for a stretch or some training games.

  
  

🍻 Pubs and Cafés: A Warm Welcome

Portaferry has a small-town charm with big-hearted hospitality. We felt welcome everywhere we went. Here are some spots you shouldn’t miss:

• Portaferry Hotel – A traditional spot just a few minutes’ walk from the marina. Their dog-friendly bar and outdoor terrace made for a lovely pint in the sunshine. The staff were kind, and Svea had her own water bowl before we even sat down!

  
  

• M.E Dumigan – This is a proper pub with character and chatty locals. Svea curled up under the table while we soaked in the atmosphere.

  
  

• The Pantry Café – Tucked just off the square, this cosy café serves excellent coffee and homemade scones. Their outdoor seating was ideal for dogs. Svea helpfully cleared up a few fallen crumbs.

  
  

• ⭐ Portaferry Sailing Club – We popped in thinking we’d have a quick drink and ended up staying the night! The owner welcomed Svea (despite not allowing dogs) into the bar and even gave Pete two free pints of Guinness. We were invited back to watch the GAA finals between Ulster champions Donegal and Munster champions Kerry the following day. Fingers crossed they show the England V Spain final afterwards!

  
  

🐶 Final Thoughts on Our Portaferry Adventure

Sailing into Portaferry was one of our favourite stops so far. The drama of the tide, the playful dolphins, the beauty of the surroundings, and the unbelievable kindness we experienced made it stand out.

Whether you're after panoramic walks, dog-friendly cafés, or just a really good Guinness, Portaferry delivers. Svea gives it eight paws up! 🐾🐾🐾🐾.