Bearing the burden of boat harbours: Heavy contaminant and fouling loads in a native habitat-forming alga

► We survey epibiota and tissue contamination in a habitat forming kelp. ► The kelp suffers heavier fouling by non-native invertebrates inside marinas. ► The kelp also carries a greater metal load than in nearby natural habitats. ► Boat harbours represent a haven for boats, contaminants and fouling species.