Chatham Maritime Watersports Centre launches new floating obstacle course

Once a hub for the nation’s illustrious shipbuilding industry, a former dockyard basin has evolved into a thriving aqua park.

And now the watersports centre at Chatham Maritime is about to launch its showstopper attraction — an inflatable obstacle course.

Basin No 2 has been renamed An Urban Playground, offering “a gateway to a world of aquatic fun and excitement”.

The massive Aquaglide floating structure with its thrilling range of slides, freefalls and climbing bars is to be installed next month and ready to open to the public at the end of May for the Bank Holiday weekend.

Up to 45 people from the age of six will be able to clamber on board at any one time afloat above the nine-metre-deep former naval marine dock.

The centre, which opened in 2019, but then closed during Covid, is run by Chatham Maritime Trust, which manages St Mary’s Island.

Richard Farrer, chief executive of CMT, which has the mantra ‘Live, Work, Study and Play’ said with the completion of residential development, the universities, shops, recreational facilities, bars and restaurants, it has been transformed into a “a true destination”.

He said: “It’s a hidden treasure on our doorstep and not just for people who live here.

“People don’t have to pack to go to a country park, we have everything here. Use the water park and then go for something to eat or drink afterwards.”

Mr Farrer said since opening in 2019, the trust has invested a quarter of a million pounds enhancing facilities and the Aquaglide, to date its biggest attraction, has cost £50,000.

Matt Small, who is in charge of the watersports centre, classed as a community asset, says it is now well and truly up-an-running offering a full package of water based activities for groups and individuals.

Kayaking, windsurfing, sailing and paddleboarding, still a firm favourite with visitors, are all available.

A new access pontoon has been erected to encourage open water swimmers ti take the plunge, and families can hire out swan and unicorn-themed pedalos.

Matt, who has been involved in water-based activity for 20 years and whose family worked in the dockyards, said: “It’s come a long way.

“It’s been proven that watersports can benefit mental health and wellbeing.

“We have a wide range of people come here now.

“Wild swimmers come in for a dip in the morning shift workers who come into sail after work.”.

Matt said keeping the salt water clean to meet bathing quality standards was of paramount importance and mussels are used as filtered and purifiers.Lifeguards are on duty at all time and children must accompanied by an adult.

Equipment can be hired.

All sessions must be pre-booked and can now be booked online.

Alternatively, give Matt Small a call on 07538 964335. For enquiries email WAC@cmtrust.co.uk.