Mistley Quay was fenced off in 2008 and a campaign group 'Free the Quay' has protested to have the fence removed. The East Coast OGA has supported the campaign by sailing up to the Quay during their summer cruising events. In 2016, unlike previous protest rallies, there were no ladders at the request of organisers keen not to break the law. Crews were stranded on the river-side of the fence. Fortunately caterers ashore and sympathetic helpers passed food and drink through a hole in the fence, previously made with a wooden frame to allow photography of the once lovely view. 'Bonify' and 'Half Moon' attended in 2016, as well as several OGA spectators on the shore.

In February 2017, the High Court found in favour of 'Free the Quay'. Read the news report here.