Italy
At 1 1/3 miles (2158 metres) long it is the longest pleasure pier in the world. Although damaged a couple of times during its life by boat collisions and fires, the Pier, which has recently undergone a major revamp, can be accessed on foot or by the pier train which will take you to the far end wher
e there is constant deep water, although the waters are tidal. At the "dry end" you can visit the Pier museum. A fire severely damaged the pier head on 9 October 2005, destroying a large part of it. This part is off limits, but the section from the shore to the cordoned off head is still open to the public. There is a cafe at the end of the pier and also a shop supporting the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution). In the summer Thames Barges are often seen at the end of the pier for visitors to admire.
Listen to the audio guide for Pontile di Southend Free on WIP — starts by itself when you arrive, even with the screen off