Harbour lights

Once a harbour master might have resembled a salty seadog. Emsworth’s Rowena Judd is part of a new breed looking after our coastal waters

- Viv Micklefield

Walking down the polished cobbles of Emsworth’s South Street on a crisp spring morning, the gently lapping waters of Town Quay beckon as a picture-postcard scene unfolds. Former fishermen’s cottages frame the view, and, for a moment, time stands still. Yet today, with two day boats the sole survivors of a once buoyant fleet and the famous Victorian oyster beds barely visible at low tide, Emsworth and its harbour attracts a very different flotilla.

Whether bobbing within sight of the slipway, or stretching out towards the deep water Emsworth Channel on the horizon, all types of leisure craft can regularly be spotted. Seasoned sailors explore this peaceful northwest corner of Chichester Harbour, some berthing at the local Yacht Harbour to take advantage of the skilled repair yards, or to refuel. Meanwhile, there’s a multitude of moorings, two sailing clubs racing or teaching the next generation of enthusiasts, and seasonal passenger cruises navigating the inlets. All of which, adds up to a hive of activity.

So harbour technician Rowena Judd, who’s employed by Chichester Harbour Conservancy the area’s statutory harbour authority, has her hands full between April and October tackling the 21st century challenges posed. Although in post for under a year, three previous seasons working as a member of the conservancy’s patrol team, alongside a full-time job at Ocean Chandlery (formerly Sea Teach) in Emsworth providing advice on sailing equipment and safety, means she’s no stranger to these waters.

“Emsworth is tidal so once there’s enough water everyone is going to be out at the same time,” says Rowena, adding: “It’s a fairly small space for a lot to happen.