Nestled on Jersey’s eastern coastline, St. Catherine’s Bay is a place where history, maritime heritage, and modern adventure collide. From defensive fortifications and naval ambitions to oyster riots and lifeboat rescues, the bay has played a vital role in shaping Jersey’s story.

1781 – The Battle of Jersey & The Rise of Coastal Defenses

The Battle of Jersey in 1781 was a stark reminder of the island’s vulnerability to invasion. French forces landed in St. Helier in an attempt to seize the island, but they were repelled by Major Peirson and the Jersey Militia. Though the French were defeated, the British government quickly realized that Jersey’s defenses needed serious improvement.

Under the leadership of General Henry Seymour Conway, a major coastal defense initiative was launched, resulting in the construction of Conway Towers between 1785 and 1801. Later, as military technology evolved, they were reinforced or replaced by Martello Towers, which were shorter, stronger, and better suited to withstand artillery fire.

1840’s – The Oyster Riots

By the early 19th century, St. Catherine’s Bay had become a hub for oyster fishing, attracting fleets from France and England. The oyster trade was so profitable that competition quickly became fierce, leading to disputes over fishing rights and protected oyster beds.

Tensions had reached a boiling point. French and English fleets began dredging protected areas, overfishing the oyster stocks and ignoring local regulations. Chaos erupted as local Jersey fishermen tried to defend their waters, resulting in violent clashes between rival fleets.

The situation became so serious that Jersey’s Lieutenant Governor, Major General Archibald Campbell, took the extraordinary step of personally intervening at sea. Boarding a Royal Navy vessel, he fired upon the fleet and ordered the illegal fishing activities to stop. Even with this dramatic display of authority, tensions remained high, and it took continued naval patrols to fully restore order.

1847 – St. Catherine’s Breakwater - THE HARBOUR THAT FAILED

As tensions with France remained high, the British government sought to establish a naval base in Jersey. St. Catherine’s Bay was chosen as the perfect location, and in 1847, work began on a grand breakwater, which would form the foundation of a protected naval harbour.

The plan was ambitious—but deeply flawed. The waters around St. Catherine’s were too shallow, and the cost of completing the harbour quickly became unsustainable. By 1856, the project was scrapped, leaving behind the 700-meter-long breakwater as a lasting remnant of this failed military vision. Today, it’s a popular spot for fishing, walking, and dolphin watching.

Late 19th Century – Shipbuilding

Although the naval base never materialized, St. Catherine’s Bay remained important for maritime industries. In the late 19th century, it became home to small shipyards, where wooden sailing vessels were built and repaired for the island’s fishing and trading industries. However, as steam-powered ships became more common, traditional shipbuilding declined, and the bay’s focus shifted toward coastal defenses and leisure sailing.

“FLYING FOAM” A 112T SCHOONER - BUILT IN ST CATHERINE’S BAY 1879

1940-1945 – WWII

During World War II, Jersey fell under German occupation, and St. Catherine’s Bay became part of the Nazis’ Atlantic Wall defenses. They constructed bunkers, gun emplacements, and anti-tank defenses to prevent an Allied invasion.

One of the most notable remnants is St. Catherine’s Bunker (Ho Mole Verclut), which still stands as a powerful reminder of the war years.

St Catherine’s Bunker is now open - you can book onto guided tours HERE.

ST CATHERINE’s BUNKER ENTRANCE (LEFT) & THE LIGHTHOUSE KEEPERS HOUSE (RIGHT)

1961 – St. Catherine’s Sailing Club

Sailing has always been a part of Jersey’s maritime culture, and in 1961, the St. Catherine’s Sailing Club was founded. Offering racing events, training courses, and community sailing days, the club has become a mainstay of the area. Whether it’s experienced racers competing on Sundays or beginners learning the ropes, the club has helped foster a strong sailing tradition in the bay.

Find Summer Sailing Courses HERE.

1990 – St. Catherine’s Lifeboat Station

St. Catherine’s Lifeboat Station was moved to its current location in 1990, providing crucial rescue services for local fishermen and sailors. In 2006, it received an upgrade with the introduction of the Atlantic 85 Inshore Lifeboat, a fast, versatile rescue vessel perfectly suited for Jersey’s tricky waters.

Find out more about RNLI Jersey HERE.

2011 – Jersey Seafaris Begins Operations

For those looking for a more high-speed adventure, Jersey Seafaris began operating from St. Catherine’s Breakwater in 2011. Our exciting RIB boat tours take visitors on thrilling rides to explore Jersey’s coastline, Les Écréhous, Les Minquiers reefs, the French coastline and the neighbouring Channel Islands.

JERSEY SEAFARIS VESSEL - SEAFARI HARRIER

Present Day – A Mix of Old and New

Today, St. Catherine’s Bay is a blend of history, recreation, and natural beauty. You can stand on the breakwater, imagining the grand naval base that never was, or explore St Catherine’s Bunker a relic from Jersey’s war-torn past. You might spot a lifeboat crew in action, watch sailboats racing across the bay, or speed off on a Seafari adventure.