Watch Harbour Cops

Harbour Cops, a British documentary series that aired on BritBox in 2020, follows the activities of UK's marine and coastguard agencies as they tackle the numerous issues that arise in the country's harbours, coastlines, and waterways. Through the show, audiences get a glimpse into the daily lives of dedicated officers, tactical teams, and other professionals who work tirelessly to keep the waters safe and secure.

Each episode of the show profiles a different harbour, providing an intimate look into the challenges and dangers that officers face on a daily basis. From smugglers and drug traffickers to lost and stranded boaters and other emergencies, the show takes a realistic approach to these situations, showing how the Marine and Coastguard agencies communicate, coordinate, and respond quickly in order to save lives and protect the community.

The show is primarily focused on the UK's southern coasts including harbours in the Solent, Plymouth, and Felixstowe. Despite so many different locations, the episodes are carefully structured to take the audience on a journey into these harbours, revealing the beauty of each location alongside its unique and often risky challenges.

Through various interviews and conversations, viewers learn about the training and dedication required to become a harbour cop or coastguard officer. Patrols are conducted on land, sea, air, and water, with the officers using the latest technology and equipment to identify and apprehend people involved in smuggling and other illegal activities. The show's cinematographers capture the dramatic and often perilous moments where encounters between the authorities and offenders are high-stakes and time-sensitive.

The series isn't solely focused on high-speed chases and on-water arrests though. During the episodes, viewers can watch search and rescue teams save lives and recover drowned people, and learn about the roles of the agencies in monitoring the health of wildlife and marine species. They also show how the officers work with seafront establishments and commercial harbour management to ensure that the environment is kept clean and safe. The challenges they face in re-opening harbours during Covid-19, was also covered in-depth.

Another interesting feature of the show is the utilization of cameras placed in crucial areas of the harbour, such as on boats and in coastal surveillance command centers. These give audiences a unique perspective on how officers are working to protect their communities, giving them a privileged insight that few people ever experience.

In addition to its insightful and informative content, the show is also lauded for its cinematic quality and production values. Its use of drones and underwater cameras capture stunning imagery of the unique coastal features and scenic beauty of southern U.K. Harbours. The show's informative tone and highly engaging presentations garnered much appreciation from viewers.

Overall, Harbour Cops is a fascinating, informative, and visually stunning documentary series that provides an in-depth look into the many challenges that UK's marine and coastguard agencies face on a daily basis. The series exposes viewers to the impressive and awe-inspiring work of these professionals, showcasing the courage, dedication, and determination required to ensure the safety and security of those who rely on the harbour and coastline. The series is highly recommended for viewers passionate about the ocean, naval life, and public services.