An Introduction

All visitors to Herne Bay enquire at sometime about the structures that can be seen off the coast. They are the remains of the Army and Naval World War II defences constructed at Gravesend and floated down river to be sunk on the sea bed about 7 miles from the shore.

Boat Trips to the Forts

During the Summer months boat trips out to the Forts are arranged from Herne Bay Harbour. The trips are usually of four hours duration and both types of fort are visited to enable close up photographs to be taken. The boat is licensed for twelve passengers and there are toilet and beverage making facilities on board. Passengers must book in advance as seats are quickly filled by enthusiasts as soon as the dates are published. Telephone 01474 321534 to obtain further details. The list of dates for 2001 is available by sending a stamped addressed envelope to Frank R Turner, Glendale House, Marling Cross, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 5UE, ENGLAND.

Illustrated Talks

Finally, during August of each year, a two hour illustrated lecture is given in the Herne Bay area purely on the history of the Maunsell Sea Forts. Many artefacts of historical importance plus a display of wartime and Radio Pirate era photographs are on show for all to see and the author Frank R Turner is available to answer any questions. Entry is free and the venue is normally the Hotel St George, Western Esplanade, Herne Bay, Kent. If you are interested in any way you should not miss these talks. This years talks are to be confirmed. Further details are available from the Visitor Information Centre or Frank Turner.

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