Respect, enjoy and sustain the amazing habitats and species in the Plymouth Sound and Estuaries
The Plymouth Sound and Estuaries has a rich cultural heritage that is intimately tied to the sea. It hosts the largest naval base in Western Europe and offers great opportunities for recreation, industry and innovation but it’s also home to a surprisingly vibrant and diverse marine environment. It’s a designated Marine Protected Area – or ‘MPA’ – because it hosts some of Europe’s most threatened marine species and habitats. We have an opportunity to conserve this precious area for future generations to benefit.

Your guide to the MPA
Plymouth Sound and Estuaries Water User Guides
Download our guide and map full of helpful advice about water and navigational safety, as well as how to protect the amazing nature and wildlife in this special place.

MPA residents
There’s no need to travel to far-flung, exotic places to find busy, vibrant reefs and a rich variety of marine life. We’ve got plenty of Blue Planet drama right here in the Plymouth Sound and Estuaries!

People and Nature
How best to enjoy the MPA, from diving to rock pooling, swimming to sailing, SUP boarding to coastal walking; whether you prefer to be on, in or by the water, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy our special MPA while protecting it.
Respect - Enjoy - Sustain