You won’t be surprised to learn that its maritime position with direct access to Portland Harbour was a major influence on the design of Crabbers’ Wharf.

The building itself is in the shape of a ship. The two one-bedroom apartments have their bedrooms in the ‘funnels’ of the ship. And the penthouse’s fabulous terrace occupies the ‘stern’.

Shortly after opening in 2017, Crabbers’ Wharf was awarded the Weymouth Civic Society Annual Award for its eye-catching and innovative design.

Crabbers’ Wharf makes for the perfect base for a fantastic self-catering holiday in and around Weymouth and Portland in Dorset.

Castletown has a long and colourful history, firstly as a base for local fishermen, then as the ideal spot from which to ship stone. One of its earliest businesses was the Jolly Sailor public house and hotel, established in 1775.

During the 19th and 20th Centuries, Castletown was home to Portland’s naval base. The area was targeted by 48 German bombing raids during World War II and was a major embarkation point for US troops destined for the Normandy beaches on D-Day.

Crabbers’ Wharf is next to a working boatyard and a two-minute walk from Portland Port. That means we’re surrounded by a variety of maritime sights and sounds.

There is always something happening in Portland Harbour, from pleasure craft arriving at the marina, to cruise ships docking at the port. The National Sailing Academy is a base for sailing schools and competitions and there are often kite- and wind-surfers making the most of the wide open spaces and sheltered waters.

With a prime waterfront locations like Crabbers’ we simply had to provide our guests with complimentary use of paddleboards, kayaks and life vests.

Each apartment has its own secure storage space on the ground floor, with room for suitcases, climbing gear, wetsuits, or even a couple of bikes.

And next to the storage you’ll find the Crabbers’ complimentary washer/dryers.

Getting out onto the water couldn’t be easier. Crabbers’ guests have exclusive access to a pontoon, meaning kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing is literally on your doorstep.

And you can even sail in your own small craft (by arrangement), moor it at Crabbers’, and be toasting the sunset with friends within minutes of arrival.