Scarborough Bay (From York Press)

Scarborough Bay

11:59am Saturday 26th July 2008

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What and where? The Wave Rider speed boat, based at Scarborough Harbour in the South Bay.

Why? It's awesome – particularly when it's windy and wavy out in the bay, while also sunny and under a blue sky, as it was on the Sunday we went for a trip earlier this month. After leaving the shelter of the harbour wall, the boat accelerated rapidly away and we flew across the sea at up to 45 miles per hour, bouncing from wave to wave with spray flying everywhere. The skipper told us the sea was rarely rough enough to force him to keep the boat in the harbour. The seats were made of thick foam and there was a bar to grip hold of, so we didn't come to any harm. From out in the bay, we saw some of the best views of Scarborough, seeing how the town was overlooked by the historic castle perched on top of the headland. The only shame was that the trip only lasted about ten minutes and, just like a theme park ride, before we knew it, it was all over and we were heading back into harbour. After climbing off, we headed for one of thre numerous fish and chip stalls nearby for a tasty takeaway, which we took and ate on the harbour wall, from which we watched the next sets of passengers heading off on the speedboat.

When? Rides available every few minutes daily in Wave Rider and its sister speedboat.

How much? Adults £4, children £3.

Disabled access? No – there's a climb down into the boat.

Toilets? Public loos are available a short distance from the speed boat landing area.

Parking? Pay and display parking is available a short distance away on the road round the headland.

Further information: Scarborough Tourist Information Centre 01723 383637.

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