Solent Handbook & Directory April 2023- March 2024
SOLENT HANDBOOK & DIRECTORY APRIL 2023 - MARCH 2024 Location & Buoy Racer maps inside aul Wyeth P Portsmouth Tide Tables sponsored by Kemp Sails solenthandbook.com
Celebrate getting out on the water and everything that’s on offer onshore as well with this, our thirteenth edition of the Solent Handbook. Whether you’re a sailor, a nature lover, enjoy great entertainment and food, or all three, then this is the ideal publication to dip into to appreciate Solent life at its best. For expert insights into sailing and life on the water we’ve put together some fascinating features including an interview with Xavier Baker Co-Founder of the Isle of Wight Distillery and Mermaid Gin who talks about the challenge he and two friends will be undertaking, namely rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic as part of the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge – a true life ‘three men in a boat’. We also speak to the team behind the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust’s ‘Secrets of the Solent project’ which has achieved amazing things during its four-year duration. The project is drawing to a close, but it’s hoped that the legacy it leaves behind will inspire; shining a spotlight on wildlife, using art and creativity, and encouraging meaningful change through beach cleans and sea bins. If you’re new to sailing or fancy a change of scene, then John Hodgins of Marchwood Yacht Club tells you everything that you need to know about choosing the right yacht club for you, and our guide to weather conditions around the Solent and the Isle of Wight will give you an invaluable knowledge of land effect and the flow of water and air. And to that end, please read our feature on RYA SafeTrx, a free app from the RYA that uses tracking and alerting technology designed to take the search out of search and rescue by making the user’s status and location accessible to HM Coastguard should the unexpected happen. Dates for your diary of course must include Round the Island Race on 1 July, the Rolex Fastnet Race Saturday 22 July (50th edition), and Cowes Week from the 29 July – 4 August when the competition is hot and the onshore entertainment lively, with tide tables from the UK Hydrographic Office to keep you on course. And remember that we have our online handbook at solenthandbook.com where we can keep you up to date with what’s happening on the water, race fixtures, and any other Solent sailing news. Thanks for the support of our advertisers without whom we wouldn’t be able to produce the handbook and please return that support when you are on the Island or sailing along the south coast. From the Solent Handbook team, we wish you safe and happy Solent sailing. Managing Director Published by Inspired Media Andy Kinnaird © 2023 Inspired Media Sales Yasmin Attrill Accounts Louise Kinnaird Design Laura Craven t: 07773 276215 | e: [email protected] | solenthandbook.com www.SolentHandbook.com 3
Made on the Isle of Wight Island engineers, Island call centres, Island staff Order online at Rated 4.8 / 5 ‘Excellent’ wihtfibre.com or call 01983 240240 A Different kind of Broadband Full-fibre • Ultrafast • Future-proof VIOW Solent Handbook ad 100x235 ARTWORK.indd 1VIOW Solent Handbook ad 100x235 ARTWORK.indd 1 27/01/2023 15:0927/01/2023 15:09
Made on the Isle of Wight Island engineers, Island call centres, Island staff Order online at Rated 4.8 / 5 ‘Excellent’ wihtfibre.com or call 01983 240240 A Different kind of Broadband Full-fibre • Ultrafast • Future-proof VIOW Solent Handbook ad 100x235 ARTWORK.indd 1VIOW Solent Handbook ad 100x235 ARTWORK.indd 1 27/01/2023 15:0927/01/2023 15:09
CONTENTS Welcome to the Solent: with Xavier Baker 8 Solent Yacht Clubs 10-11 CONTENTS CONTENTS Solent Racing 12-17 Event Feature: Rolex Fastnet Race 18-19 Join the Sustainability Boating Community 20 Weather: with Simon Rowell, Rowell Yacht Services 22-24 Advertising Feature: Richardsons Yacht Services 26-27 Wildlife: with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust 28-30 Advertising Feature: Marchwood Yacht Club 32 RYA SafeTrx: with RYA 34-35 Choosing the Right Yacht Club: with John Hodgins, 36-37 Marchwood Yacht Club Solent Events Diary 38-49 Solent Events Calendar 50-57 Useful Contacts 60 Solent Ports & Harbours 61 Beaulieu River 64-65 Bembridge Harbour 66-67 Chichester Harbour 68-73 Cowes & River Medina 74-82 Fareham 84 Keyhaven 85 Langstone Harbour 86-87 Lymington Harbour 88-91 Newtown 92 Poole Harbour 93-97 Port Solent 98 Portsmouth & Gosport 99-106 River Hamble & Warsash 107-113 Ryde Harbour 114-115 Seaview 116 Southampton Water 118-126 Ventnor Haven 127 Wootton Creek 128-129 Yarmouth Harbour 130-131 Solent Directory Index 133 Solent Directory 134-141 Cowes Tide Tables 142-148 Portsmouth Tide Tables 150- 156 Advertisers’ Index 158-159 Acknowledgements 160 Solent Location Map Pull out inside back cover Racing Marks Map Pull out inside back cover Largest YL a r gest Yaacht Brokerage in Europecht Brokerage in Europe New Boat Sales | Pre-Owned Boat SalesN ew Boat Sales | Pre-Owned Boat Sales ancasta.com/Port-Solent ancasta.com/Lymington ancasta.com/Port-Hamblea ncasta.com/Port-Hamble ancasta.com/Port-Solent ancasta.com/Lymington 02380 450 000 02392 373 300 01590 673 212 02380 450 000 02392 373 300 01590 673 212 ancasta.com/Chichester ancasta.com/Swanwick ancasta.com/Cowes ancasta.com/Chichester ancasta.com/Swanwick ancasta.com/Cowes 01243 885 380 01489 854 455 07383 823 630 6 www.SolentHandbook.com 01243 885 380 01489 854 455 07383 823 630
Largest YL a r gest Yaacht Brokerage in Europecht Brokerage in Europe New Boat Sales | Pre-Owned Boat SalesN ew Boat Sales | Pre-Owned Boat Sales ancasta.com/Port-Solent ancasta.com/Lymington ancasta.com/Port-Hamblea ncasta.com/Port-Hamble ancasta.com/Port-Solent ancasta.com/Lymington 02380 450 000 02392 373 300 01590 673 212 02380 450 000 02392 373 300 01590 673 212 ancasta.com/Chichester ancasta.com/Swanwick ancasta.com/Cowes ancasta.com/Chichester ancasta.com/Swanwick ancasta.com/Cowes 01243 885 380 01489 854 455 07383 823 630 01243 885 380 01489 854 455 07383 823 630
WELCOME TO THE SOLENT Hello and welcome to the Solent, a stretch of water like no other. As an Islander, I’ve grown up exploring the Solent and it’s helped shape my life, my business and my WELCOME TO THE SOLENT passions! I’m Xavier Baker, co-founder of the Isle of Wight Distillery, the home of Mermaid Gin. Sailing, surfing, coasteering, rowing – all my adventures on the water have started here. I love the Solent, it’s a Xavier Baker by Gianpaolo Giancovich familiar part of the world to me. I was fortunate to grow up sailing the Solent at weekends with my family. A great playground, exploring all the harbours, rivers and creeks around Southampton Water, Hamble River, Ashlett Creek and Chichester, spotting seals at Newtown Creek and even the occasional dolphin between Cowes and the mainland. The Solent with it’s crazy tidal systems is the passageway between the Island and the big island and there’s so much to explore in one area. Those who love the sea often thrive on the thrill of adventure. It fosters independence, camaraderie among crew mates and a can-do attitude. As an entrepreneur, I’m sure the learnings I received on the water has helped me understand the power of a great team, optimism and persistence. Mermaid was inspired by the ocean that surrounds us and this resonates with so many people, both locally and around the world. Now a little older and wiser (or not), I’ll be embarking on the adventure of a lifetime with two other Island seamen this December, as part of the rowing team mermaidatlantic.com. We’ll be rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic as part of the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, to raise funds for charities Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Surfers Against Sewage and The Seahorse Project. Alongside fundraising and raising the profiles of some brilliant charities, the row is also a huge personal challenge for us. Paul had previously rowed around the Island, myself and Manni hadn’t rowed before we started training for the challenge. Hearing tales of marlin strikes, shark sightings and capsized boats from former competitors, we’re heading into the adventure with a healthy dose of caution as well as excitement. The expedition takes most teams around 35- 50 days and we’ll be heading off on 12 December 2023, so we’re preparing to spend Christmas and New Year at sea. Training is now full speed ahead as we get to grips with learning the techniques needed to manage the rolling waves of the Atlantic! If you see three men in a rowing boat while you’re sailing the Solent, be sure to give us a wave! Xavier Baker Co Founder Isle of Wight Distillery 8 solenthandbook.com
See the Solent differently Discover more at boatfolk.co.uk
SOLENT YACHT CLUBS ISLE OF WIGHT Bembridge Sailing Club - 01983 872237 - bembridgesailingclub.org ACHT CLUBSBrading Haven Yacht Club - 01983 873911 - scmbhyc.bhyc.org.uk Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club - 01983 296333 - ccyc.org.uk East Cowes Sailing Club - eastcowessc.co.uk SOLENT YGurnard Sailing Club - 01983 295169 - gurnardsc.org.uk Island Sailing Club - 01983 296621 - islandsc.org.uk Royal London Yacht Club - 01983 299727 - rlyc.org.uk Royal Ocean Racing Club Cowes - 01983 293581 - rorc.org Royal Ocean Racing Club Race Office - 01983 295144 - rorc.org Royal Solent Yacht Club - 01983 760256 - royalsolent.org Royal Victoria Yacht Club - 01983 882325 - rvyc.org.uk Royal Yacht Squadron - 01983 292191 - rys.org.uk Sea View Yacht Club - 01983 613268 - svyc.org.uk Shanklin Sailing Club - 01983 721264 - shanklinsailingclub.com Yarmouth Sailing Club - 01983 760270 - yarmouthsailingclub.org.uk HAMPSHIRE Ashlett Sailing Club - 02380 891764 - ashlettsc.org Eling Sailing Club - elingsc.co.uk Emsworth Sailing Club - 01243 372850 - emsworthsc.org.uk Emsworth Slipper Sailing Club - 01243 372523 - emsworthslippersc.org.uk Fareham Sailing & Motor Boat Club - 01329 562738 - fsmbc.org.uk Hamble River Sailing Club - 02380 452070 - hrsc.org.uk Hardway Sailing Club - hardwaysailingclub.co.uk Hayling Island Sailing Club - 02392 463768 - hisc.co.uk Hill Head Sailing Club - 01329 664843 - hillheadsc.org.uk Hornet Services Sailing Club - 02392 580403 - hornetservicessailing.org.uk Hurst Castle Sailing Club - 01590 719361 - hcsc.org.uk Hythe Sailing Club - 02380 846563 - hythesailingclub.co.uk Keyhaven Yacht Club - 01590 642165 - keyhavenyc.co.uk Langstone Sailing Club - scmw.langstonesc.org.uk Lee-On-The-Solent Sailing Club - 02392 360089 - lossc.org.uk Locks Sailing Club, Portsmouth - lockssc.co.uk Lymington Town Sailing Club - 01590 674514 - ltsc.co.uk Marchwood Yacht Club - 02380 666141 - marchwoodyc.org.uk Mengeham Rythe Sailing Club - mengeham.org.uk Netley Cliff Sailing Club - 02380 455826 - ncsc.co.uk Netley Sailing Club - 07542 908759 - netleysc.co.uk Port Solent Yacht Club - psyc.uk.com Portchester Sailing Club - 02392 376375 - portchestersc.org Portsmouth Harbour Cruising Club - 02392 664337 - phcconline.co.uk Portsmouth Sailing Club - 02392 820596 - portsmouthsc.co.uk Royal Air Force Yacht Club - 02380 452208 - rafyc.org.uk Royal Armoured Corps Yacht Club - 02392 765635 - racyc.co.uk Royal Lymington Yacht Club - 01590 672677 - rlymyc.org.uk Royal Southampton Yacht Club - 02380 223352 - rsyc.org.uk Royal Southern Yacht Club - 02380 450300 - royal-southern.co.uk Salterns Sailing Club - salternssailingclub.co.uk Seafarers Sailing Club - 01329 662465 - seafarers-sailing-club.org.uk Southampton Sailing Club - southamptonsailingclub.com Spinnaker Sailing Club - 01425 483692 - spinnakerclub.co.uk St Denys Sailing and Rowing Club - 02380 970965 - stdenysboats.co.uk Stokes Bay Sailing Club - 02392 581513 - stokesbay-sc.co.uk Thorney Island Sailing Club - 01243 371731 - tisc.org.uk 10 solenthandbook.com
COWES BOATYARD COWES BOATYARD Boat storage & maintenance T 01983 203872 www.cowesboatyard.co.uk ACHT CLUBS Tudor Sailing Club - 02392 662002 - tudorsailing.org.uk Warsash Sailing Club - 01489 583575 - warsashsc.org.uk Weston Sailing Club - 02380 452527 - weston.org.uk SOLENT Y Yateley Offshore Sailing Club - yosc.org.uk LONDON Royal Ocean Racing Club - 02074 932248 - rorc.org Royal Thames Yacht Club - 02072 352121 - royalthames.com WEST SUSSEX Chichester Cruiser Racing Club - ccrc.co.uk Chichester Yacht Club - 01243 512918 - cyc.co.uk DORSET East Dorset Sailing Club - eastdorsetsailingclub.co.uk Lilliput Sailing Club - 01202 740319 - lilliputsc.org.uk Parkstone Yacht Club - 01202 743610 - parkstoneyachtclub.com The Poole Yacht Club - 01202 672687 - pooleyc.co.uk 11 solenthandbook.com
NEW RETIREMENT APARTMENTS FOR SALE SOLENT RACING SOLENT RACING Paul Wyeth Fewer worries and A few people claim to dislike racing in the Solent, because it’s such a tricky place. It’s true that it has strong tides, complex wind more time for you and patterns, lots of leisure and commercial traffic, choppy water, and ever-changing conditions - but, for many sailors, it’s the your loed ones complexity that makes Solent racing such a rewarding challenge. Windward-leeward courses set in areas of no tide and with steady Retirement Living may not be for you winds may create a ‘fairer’ race course but they can become right now, but perhaps you have a friend repetitive and limited in their challenge. Boat speed and tactics are or family member who would enjoy highlighted but strategy, navigation, and boat handling get much more a low maintenance, safe, secure, and of a test around Solent courses. The ideal, of course, is to enjoy and independent lifestyle? learn from both. Fortunately, the Solent offers plenty of locations that allow a variety With developments all over the country, of courses, even windward-leeward courses in areas that enjoy some we have something for everyone. tidal shelter. Consequently, this wonderful, sheltered area is home to a rich mixture of events, including racing for dinghies, small keelboats, cruiser-racers, and handicap and level-racing for larger racing yachts. Most racing from Cowes for example, and there is a huge amount of it in all types of boats, takes place in the central Solent but courses can also be set in the eastern and western Solent, depending on conditions. The Hill Head Plateau, just to the east of the Brambles Bank, is a favourite place for race officers to set windward-leeward courses as it benefits from shallow water for easy mark laying and the tidal shadow of the bank to its west. Sometimes, though, race officers forget that there are other areas e€ Lodge‚ S„itfi re Lodge‚ in the central Solent that can be even better for windward-leeward Par€ ƒate Portswood courses in some combinations of wind and tide. The area inshore Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm and to the northwest of the Thorn channel, and the area to the east of Osborne Bay under the Isle of Wight shore, can both be good alternatives, as can close under the mainland shore, inshore of the Call us to register north channel around the Brambles. your interest In this section of the Solent Handbook you’ll find some general information on Solent racing, including types of courses, how racing is 0800 077 4594 organised, getting involved, finding crew, and preparing for racing. crl.co.uk For more information ask at your local club and check solenthandbook.com. Receive a £ MS gift ard when you visit, it’s that simple! 12 solenthandbook.com *T&Cs Apply. Visit churchillretirement.co.uk/terms-and-conditions
NEW RETIREMENT APARTMENTS FOR SALE Fewer worries and more time for you and your loed ones Retirement Living may not be for you right now, but perhaps you have a friend or family member who would enjoy a low maintenance, safe, secure, and independent lifestyle? With developments all over the country, we have something for everyone. e€ Lodge‚ S„itfi re Lodge‚ Par€ ƒate Portswood Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm Call us to register your interest 0800 077 4594 crl.co.uk Receive a £ MS gift ard when you visit, it’s that simple! 13 solenthandbook.com *T&Cs Apply. Visit churchillretirement.co.uk/terms-and-conditions
SOLENT RACING Types of racing Many people think of the Solent as mainly suitable for day racing keelboats and cruiser-racers rather than dinghy racing. In fact, there is SOLENT RACINGplenty of opportunity for dinghy racing despite the tidal rates in much of the area, which are not ideal for small boat racing. Dinghies The most popular area for dinghy racing is just outside the Solent, at Hayling Island Sailing Club. Tidal conditions in Hayling Bay are easier than in the Solent and traffic near the racing areas is considerably less. Within the Solent, however, there is still plenty of dinghy racing. Just west of Cowes is Gurnard Sailing Club which is the main dinghy club on the Isle of Wight. Elsewhere, there is dinghy racing out of clubs in Lymington and Yarmouth, the Hamble River, Southampton Water, the area between Hill Head and Stokes Bay, which has three dinghy clubs in close proximity, and at Wootton on the Isle of Wight. Small keelboats The small keelboat classes are, for many people, the heart of Solent racing. Classes which race most weekends throughout the season include the classic Daring class, Dragons, Etchells, Flying Fifteens, Sonars and X One Designs. All these fleets have class starts in Cowes Week with the XoDs, J70s and the RS Elites being the largest classes in the week. Cruising racing and big boat racing If you’re into yacht racing there really is plenty of choice with most Solent yacht clubs running their own evening race series plus summer weekend race series. Then there is the racing run by JOG and RORC. JOG - the Junior Offshore Group - runs both an inshore and offshore series for yachts racing under IRC with both series proving very popular. RORC - the Royal Ocean Racing Club - organises a series of offshore races from Cowes, which count towards the season’s championship. For those who prefer yacht racing on windward-leeward courses, there are ample opportunities for that too. And, if you prefer racing classic yachts even that is catered for, with The Metre & Classic Keelboat Regatta and British Classic Week. Paul Wyeth 14 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT RACING On the race course Even if you are an expert racer and a Solent regular it is really important to remind yourself of the basics well before heading out for the start. These include the type and location of the course, the starting sequence and race signals, and the SOLENT RACING other important information in the Notice of Race and Sailing Instructions. Types of course The spreader mark, When racing in the Solent the two 1A, may not most usual types of courses be used you’ll encounter are windward- 1A 1 leeward courses from a committee boat start line or round-the-cans courses, Start line may be Typically usually from one of the clubs’ to leeward of the 1-2 miles shore lines or occasionally leeward mark from a committee boat start. A Start/Finish line committee-boat start can be set up in several locations in and If two buoys form a leeward around the central Solent but gate pass 2 the most used location is on the between them Hill Head Plateau to the north of the main channel and east of the Brambles Bank. On busy weekends several courses may be set in this area so it is important to find out the approximate location of the committee boat before heading out. A windward-leeward course may have the start line between the windward and leeward marks, or to leeward of the leeward mark. Also, there may be a leeward gate rather than a single mark. Starting sequence The Racing Rules of Sailing standard start sequence is often used, especially for racing on windward-leeward courses. Signal Flag and sound Minutes before starting signal Warning signal Class flag; 1 sound 5 Preparatory signal P, I, Z, Z with I, 4 or black flag; 1 sound One-minute signal Preparatory flag removed; 1 1 long sound Starting signal Class flag removed; 0 1 sound The standard sequence (rrS 26) can be changed in the Sailing Instructions (SIs) and for shore line starts from Cowes, for example, it may be changed to give a longer period between the Warning and Preparatory signals. In these cases the Warning signal is given 10 minutes before the start, with the Preparatory signal hoisted at 5 minutes before the start, and lowered at 1 minute before the start. Racing rules All racers should familiarise themselves with the latest Racing Rules of Sailing (RRS) 2021-2024. They are revised and published every four years by the International Sailing Federation and a copy of the current RRS, highlighted to show changes, can be downloaded from sailing.org/documents/racingrules/index.php. Make sure that you read and understand the rules - it will help keep you out of trouble and give you an advantage on the race course. 15 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT RACING Signals Racing is governed by the use of flag signals - often with accompanying sound signals. The flag is always the primary system; if the sound signal fails it is disregarded. SOLENT RACINGVisual signals - flags or shapes - are used to control races and the attention of competitors is drawn to the visual signals by sound signals. When a visual signal is displayed over a class flag, the signal applies only to that class. POSTPONEMENT SIGNALS PREPARATORY SIGNALS CONT. AP (Answering Pennant) - Races that have not started are postponed. Z - 20% Penalty rule, rule 30.2 is in force. The warning signal will be made one minute after removal of the AP unless at that time the race is postponed again or abandoned. Black flag - Black flag rule, rule 30.3 AP over H - Races not is in force. started are postponed. RECALL SIGNALS Further signals ashore. AP over A - Races not X - Individual recall. started are postponed. No more racing today. First Substitute - General recall. The AP over a numeral warning signal will be made one minute pennant 1-6 - Races are after the signal is removed. postponed by 1-6 hours COURSE CHANGE SIGNALS from the scheduled starting time. Note: In Cowes, it is common for clubs to use an AP over AP with two sound S - Rule 32.2 is in force. The course signals to indicate racing is postponed has been shortened. and competitors are requested not to leave harbour. ABANDONMENT SIGNALS C - The position of the next mark has been changed. N - All races that have started are OTHER SIGNALS abandoned. The warning signal will be made one minute after the signal is removed, unless the race is again abandoned or postponed. F - Optional Attention Signal: The warning signal will be displayed five minutes after this signal. This signal will be removed one minute before the next signal. Not used for classes which use Flag F as their class flag. N over H - All races are abandoned. Further signals will be made ashore. L - Flown afloat : Come within hail or follow this boat. Flown ashore: A notice to competitors has been posted. N over A - All races are abandoned. No more racing today. M - The object displaying this signal replaces a missing mark. PREPARATORY SIGNALS Y - Personal buoyancy must be worn. P - Preparatory signal. Blue flag or shape - This race committee boat is in position at the I - Round-an-End rule, rule 30.1 is in force. finishing line. 16 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT RACING Race preparation, crew, and equipment You may think that when you line up to start you’ve got as good a chance as most of the fleet for a good place in the race. You’d be wrong! Most races are won before the start thanks to the work the skipper and crew put in to prepare themselves and the boat to do well SOLENT RACING on the race course. Some of that preparation may begin months or years beforehand in preparing the boat so it has the speed and reliability to win, and preparing the crew so that they can handle the boat efficiently in all PREPARATORY SIGNALS CONT.conditions and circumstances. Other preparation takes place just before the race when the skipper and crew learn the SIs, check the weather and tide, arrive at the course early, and make the strategic decisions. Getting crew Having a good crew is always important and it often takes weeks or months to develop a crew’s skills and ability to work together. Finding crew can be difficult - although the more successful you are on the race course the easier it is! A good place to start is your local yacht club and others in the area. Post a note on their message boards and websites, and look around for online forums. The bigger events, such as the Round the Island Race and Cowes Week, have forums on their websites where you can advertise for crew and crew can advertise for a boat. Once you’ve found a crew, make sure you sail, and preferably race, with them before the big event. Training should cover the boat layout and its gear, safety procedures, and boat handling in all the important manoeuvres and sail changes. Skipper’s check list Your actual check list will depend on the type of boat, length of race, and course location but for a typical Solent race make sure you consider: • Have sufficient crew, all the sails you’ll need, with all the gear in working order, including safety equipment, and get afloat well ahead of start time with plenty of time to sail to the course area. • If you keep your boat afloat, has the bottom been scrubbed within the last two weeks? It’s amazing how many boats you see racing which have dirty hulls. • Race information - Make sure you have a copy of the sailing instructions (SIs), an up-to-date racing chart of the area (Solent buoys may change position and/or name from one year to the next so get a 2023 racing chart now), and the times of High Water for the day, with a good tidal stream chart for the area - the more detailed the better. • Bottled water and something to snack on, and the right sailing clothing for the conditions. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen. Watch the weather trends for 3-5 days ahead of the event, and start studying it in detail in the 24 hours ahead of the event. Go afloat with an up-to-date forecast and study how any changes expected during the day may affect the strategy for the race. Preparing for offshore racing If you’re heading offshore you’ll need more food and drink, and more clothing plus more detailed weather and route planning ahead of the race. You may also need to add safety equipment, depending on the category of the race. Offshore races can be tough on both boat and crew so make sure the boat and its equipment are in top class order and always sail with a crew that has sufficient experience among it to deal with a long race or with bad conditions. 17 solenthandbook.com
FLYING HIGH AT FIFTY – ROLEX FASTNET RACE ASTNET RACE ROLEX F Kurt Arrigo/ROLEX ORGANISED BY THE ROYAL OCEAN RACING CLUB Start: 22nd July 2023, Cowes – Cherbourg-en-Cotentin via the Fastnet Rock The 50th edition of the Rolex Fastnet Race will see the start of the world’s largest offshore yacht race set off from the Royal Yacht Squadron line in Cowes on Saturday 22nd July. The fleet - racing 695 nautical miles to Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, France via the Fastnet Rock - has once again attracted an international and highly diverse range of yachts from 9m (30ft) to 32m (105ft). It’s always an amazing spectacle, whether on land, on the water, or watching online, as the massive fleet gathers at the start and heads off down the Solent to compete in what must be the most famous of all yacht races. A record fleet of over 450 boats is expected to mark another milestone in this historic race, which was first run in 1925 and was the founding race of the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC). After a strong start, the ‘Ocean Race’ - as the Fastnet Race was first called - nearly withered and perished with just six entries in 1933, when it became biennial. In more recent years it has gone from strength to strength, attracting boats and sailors from all around the globe to participate in one of the ‘must do’ yacht races on every sailor’s bucket list. The 50th edition of the Rolex Fastnet Race represents a significant landmark for the Club’s premier event and this will be the first of two bumper editions of the race, with the second in 2025 celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Royal Ocean Racing Club. Today the race continues to attract a giant fleet with entries from all over the world, with 30 countries represented and comprising everything from professional teams in their ultra-fast Ultime trimarans, the foiling IMOCAs of the Vendée Globe and the giant Class40 fleet, to the bulk of competitors in the IRC fleet. Ranging from top maxi teams, through to the core RORC competitors aboard their racers and cruiser- racers, and on to the family cruisers and sailing schools out to enjoy a ‘once in a lifetime experience’. The entry list makes for impressive reading in terms of scale, diversity and quality of the fleet taking part, confirming the Rolex Fastnet Race’s position as the world’s biggest and most popular offshore race by far. From classic yachts to superyachts, production race boats to professionally crewed cutting-edge multihulls, all are in the mix with much smaller boats crewed by passionate Corinthians made up of family and friends, past winners and first timers, young and old. The race is an arduous yet absorbing adventure, with many moments to savour, from the memorable start in Cowes and race out of the Solent among the fleet of hundreds, to the rounding of the Fastnet 18 solenthandbook.com
ASTNET RACE ROLEX F Rock – an elite box ticked! For many entrants, the race is a once in a lifetime opportunity, while the lure of the 695nm course will see others returning time and time again. The 50th edition will start at lunchtime on Saturday 22nd (keep up to date with all the latest information via the website and social media) and the best vantage points will be along Cowes Green and Egypt Esplanade. As the fleet funnels west out of the Solent there will be lots of chances to see the yachts from Yarmouth as well. From the mainland you can view the yachts on their outbound leg; the best places to watch are from Hurst Castle, Anvil Point, St Alban’s Head and Portland Bill. The entire start sequence will be streamed live on the race website, RORC YouTube and Facebook. Yachts will also carry trackers, so family, friends and race fans can follow the progress of the race via the race website or by downloading the YB Races App. Around 3,000 crew members will be competing in the ‘Everest of sailing’ - for most the race is a personal challenge and a ‘bucket list’ race, but for others there are records to break: The Monohull race record of 2 days 8 hrs 33 mins and 55 secs was established in the 2021 race for the new course to Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, and for the Multihulls, the French Maxi Edmond de Rothschild, set the record to beat this year of: 1 day 9 hours 14 minutes and 54 seconds, establishing a benchmark time for the new course. The main trophy for overall winner of the Rolex Fastnet Race is called the Fastnet Challenge Cup and monohull yachts racing under IRC are eligible to win. There are an additional 30 trophies presented at the prizegiving, many to class winners and special awards Winning the special 50th Rolex Fastnet Race would be a major achievement and several individuals and teams are putting in extra effort, with new boats being constructed. For all the news, go to: rolexfastnetrace.com and follow RORC social media channels for the latest information and updates. #RolexFastnetRace Carlo Borlenghi/ROLEX 19 solenthandbook.com
JOIN THE SUSTAINABLE BOATING COMMUNITY AINABILITY SUST RYA From narrowboat liveaboards to dinghy and yacht sailors, to personal watercraft owners and motor cruisers, The Green Blue Boating Pledge is a new way for all boat users to show their commitment to protecting and respecting the environment. The aim of the Pledge is to provide boat users with simple, practical guidelines which they can follow and hopefully inspire other boaters to join. There are fifteen Pledge points focussed on the strapline, ‘Respect, Protect, Enjoy.’ Each of the Pledge actions are equally important and have been selected as playing a positive role in the well-being of surrounding habitats and wildlife, these range from ‘Choosing your anchorage with care,’ to ‘Using eco-friendly products,’ and ‘Minimising your wash.’ By joining the Pledge, you will be helping to help raise awareness of important environmental issues, such as water pollution and wildlife disturbance. It’s completely free to join and in return you can opt-in to receive a Pledge Pack with a Pledge pin badge, handy environment best practice leaflets and a Pledge certificate. RESPECT, PROTECT, ENJOY Make your Pledge online today by visiting The Green Blue website: thegreenblue.org.uk/ boating-pledge/ 20 solenthandbook.com
Manufacture • Installation • Repair World Wide Service Marine Hydraulics Running Rigging Rod Rigging Emergency rigging services available on site call +44 7990 004532 +44 (0)2380 454 280 advancedrigging.co.uk A Lifetime Of Support Yacht Care | Yacht Refit & Repair | Engineering +44 (0)2380 454 111 ancastayachtservices.com 21 solenthandbook.com
WEATHER CONTRIBUTED BY SIMON ROWELL, ROWELL YACHTING SERVICES THER WEA Becky Walford Local effects around the Island The waters around the Isle of Wight, as well as being an excellent playground for all sorts of on the water activities, also have a wide range of local land features that change the flow of water and air around them considerably. It’s worthwhile thinking about these when you’re planning on going out and about. Constrictions and Guides When fluids are set to flow through smaller gaps or close to directional funnels they tend to move faster then fan out at the other end. Starting off at the Needles Channel this is most obvious with the tide, particularly on a spring ebb. It piles through Hurst Narrows, making a fine job of dredging it out to be on the deepest part of the Solent, and then rushes through the channel between the Shingles Bank and the Island before causing a standing grave over the Bridge coming off the Needles themselves before dispersing into the Channel itself. With the wind through Hurst Narrows it’s best seen with a strong SW, which will tend to flow faster in the gap between the higher island and the New Forest before tending to funnel more WSW up the Western Solent before spreading out slightly into the Central Solent. With this wind direction the Eastern Solent is often more sheltered and a little patchier – so the effect of the channelling up the Western Solent turns what is a good solid SW all the way along the windward south coast of the Island into 3 quite different wind regimes on the leeward north coast. Similar effects occur with different wind directions – with anything from WNW to NNW winds this will get funnelled down Southampton Water before spreading out into the Central and Eastern Solent. It doesn’t need both sides of the flow to be contracted either, as anyone who has sailed close in round St Catherine’s Point in a strong W will attest. The flow around that will be accelerated to bring a much stronger local wind than that which is a couple of miles south of the Island. The effect on tide there is well known too, with the charts showing over falls on both the ebb and flood around the underwater profile of the point. 22 solenthandbook.com
WEATHER Wherever you are around the Solent and the Island, it’s a good idea to have a look at the chart and see what are the expected funnelling THER points during the day. For example, if you’re planning on going from WEA Yarmouth to Portsmouth with a S forecast for the Channel, then in the W Solent it’s likely to be patchier on the Island side under the low cliffs from Yarmouth to Gurnard with an open alley off Newtown Creek. Then going past Cowes you’re likely to have a funnelling out of the Medina with increased wind flow. Past Castle Point and Osborne Bay you’ll see a similar funnelling down Wootton Creek before you head off to the Portsmouth Harbour entrance. Windward and Leeward Shores, and how the Land Effect Changes during the Day As mentioned previously the Eastern Solent has the Island as its windward shore with a S to SW wind in the Channel, and this of course makes it a slightly more protected body of water then. However, it’s not quite that simple. During the day the Island will heat up, lots in summer, less so in winter, and this affects the bottom part of the air flowing over the land, which in turn becomes the air we sail in on the Eastern Solent. The warmer land causes air in contact with it to warm up and rise through the cooler air above, leading to a vertical mixing effect as this air rises and is replaced by cooler less buoyant air from above. Eventually this vertical mixing will allow the faster air above the surface to mix down to the surface, so if you start off with very little surface breeze but can see clouds scooting by above then this mixing will be bring the wind down to you by late morning usually. Keep an eye on the clouds developing above the windward land – you 23 solenthandbook.com
WEATHER generally see small puffs of cumulus developing during late morning, THERthese are a good sign that mixing is taking place. Also, the pattern log WEAlow clouds often gives a good indication of the pattern of the surface gusts, always handy if you’re racing. However – it’s not only windward shores that have an effect on the wind, particularly in summer when land heats up quickly. The SE side of the Island is the best place to see this, especially with a light to moderate S to ESE wind. As the Island heats up the air over it warms up too and expands, and any onshore breeze is to a certain extent made to climb up above this. This leads to a wide expanse of patchier and shiftier wind as you approach the Island itself, with the wind at sea effectively fitting up above the air expanding off the land. With a SE or ESE coming up the Eastern Solent the wide expanse of mud at low water in the harbours of Chichester, Langstone and Portsmouth can add to this effect. Looking at the Forecast Modern forecasts allow us to see a lot more detail than we used to be able to, and are a lot more reliable. However, they’re still subject to the basic rules of computer models – the smallest thing you can actually represent is 3-4 times the size of your forecast resolution. Which means even a 1km resolution forecast won’t be able to see something smaller than about 4km across, which means that the Hurst Narrows doesn’t show up, for example. This is why it’s a good idea that when you get you forecast, have a look at the wind direction and think about it using the point mentioned above, and make a note (mentally, electronically or even on one of those paper chart things…) of where you might expect more wind, less wind or a change in direction. On top of this, have a look at more than just a list of forecast wind arrows, have a look at a synoptic chart to see what is causing the weather today. Is it an unstable low pressure system, in which case the timing may be faster or slower, or is it a more stable Hugh, in which case conditions shouldn’t change so much. If you understand what’s driving your weather you can then know what to actually see during the day, and this will make your time on the water less surprising and a lot more fun. Paul Wyeth 24 solenthandbook.com
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RICHARDSONS YACHT SERVICES TURE TISING FEA ADVER Tell us about your company Richardsons Yacht Services Ltd is a family run business established in 1988, and run by husband and wife team, Terry and Carla Richardson. Our core values are at the heart of all our operations. Where are you based? We are based in the River Medina, within Island Harbour Marina, just upriver from The Folly What services do you offer? We offer a ‘one-stop-shop’ for all your boating needs. We can carry out a wide variety of work to your vessel, including slipping, antifouling, engine replacement, re-painting, bow thruster installation, etc. For the DIY Yachtsman we also have an on-site chandlery which is open 7 days a week. We have a small grocery section which includes many holiday essentials. We are a drop off point for lifejackets and liferaft servicing. Have you expanded the business into other areas? In April 2022 we took over Isle of Wight Plastics from Peter Eastaff. We saw this as a great opportunity to expand the services we offer; it also enabled us to have marine plastics in stock to carry out repairs to windows, hatches etc. We now offer greenhouse and aviary Perspex, secondary glazing, hygienic wall cladding, cast acrylic, solid polycarbonate and protection screens. Most of these can be supplied in custom sizes. What are the most important things to you both running your own business? Without a doubt REPUTATION and CUSTOMER SERVICE! We have an experienced team of highly skilled craftsmen who pride themselves on attention to detail, (most of our staff have been with us for many years, which, for us, is a huge plus - we must be doing something right!). No matter what the size or extent of the work being carried out, we offer the same level of service to our customers. We endeavour to keep to deadlines although it is often difficult during our busiest times – generally March to May. 26 solenthandbook.com
RICHARDSONS YACHT SERVICES TURE What general maintenance do boat owners need to consider annually? At the end of the season check any equipment that may have an TISING FEA expiry date – e.g. flares and purchase replacements, if necessary. Check lifejackets and liferaft servicing date and get it booked in early, ADVER if required. Consider removing all sails (all head sails must be removed if the boat is stored ashore for a term), consider getting them cleaned/ serviced. Drain down the freshwater system – if the boat is not being used. Empty the holding tanks and flush the system with fresh water/ tank cleaner. Top up the fuel tank to avoid condensation and related problems. Set up a heater/dehumidifier onboard. Lift mattresses, cushions and any soft furnishing to allow air flow (this helps to prevent damp and mould). Wash all blocks, jammers, etc with freshwater to remove salt deposits. Check all skin fittings are operating correctly and not showing any signs of wear. Engine - If a boat is winterised ashore then we would recommend laying up the engine for winter – this includes flushing through the saltwater system with an anti-freeze mix, injecting intakes with corrosion inhibitor, checking the specific gravity of the antifreeze solution (change/replenish), remove salt water pump impeller and check components, cover inlet/exhaust, remove drive belts, check external condition of components (are there any areas that need attention?), check batteries for charge and put on trickle charge for the winter. Carry out a full service to the engine, upon launch in the spring recommission it. Hull (below waterline) – apply a fresh coat of antifoul and check/ change any anodes that are showing signs of wear. Apply a hard antifoul to propeller and stern gear or a suitable alternative. Hull (above waterline) – clean and polish topsides and superstructure including any stainless-steel rails, etc – if you like to see the shine! Upon launch – refit sails (check rigging), refill freshwater tank, carry out general check to all equipment in preparation for the season ahead. What is your vision for the future? Our aim is to continue to grow the services we offer our customers, whilst striving hard to maintain our high level of customer service. We have seen steady growth over the last few years and are working hard to maintain this. How can we contact you? You can visit our website richardsonsyacht.co.uk, follow us on Instagram: @richardsonsyacht Facebook: richardsonsyachtservices Twitter: @RichardsonYacht Chandlery enquires – [email protected] Office enquires – [email protected] Call 01983 821095 27 solenthandbook.com
SECRETS OF THE SOLENT: A REFLECTION WITH HAMPSHIRE AND ISLE OF WIGHT WILDLIFE TRUST WILDLIFE Anemone, Alex Tattersall From colossal marine murals to wildlife-saving Seabins, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust’s Secrets of the Solent project has achieved amazing things during its four-year duration. As the National Lottery supported project draws to a close, we reflect on its greatest achievements. Safeguarding the future of the Solent The life in our seas and around our coastlines is mesmerising, secretive and vital to our health and wellbeing. With increasing threats from human activity, habitat loss and climate change, our natural world has never been under more pressure. But in order to protect our amazing marine wildlife, we need data - and lots of it. Secrets of the Solent’s citizen science initiatives have pooled data collected by individual volunteers, transforming small actions into big results. Over the course of the project, the public have been encouraged to submit marine mammal sightings and document occurrences of seagrass, helping to expand knowledge of the locations of internationally important seagrass beds within the Solent. The project’s twelve annual intertidal surveys were incredibly popular, with over 179 volunteers taking part to be trained in marine biodiversity and intertidal surveying techniques. The surveys were vital in building evidence and monitoring populations of vulnerable species like the native oyster and non-native species like the Asian date mussel. In fact, they were so successful that BBC Countryfile featured a survey at Lepe in their episode titled ‘Plant Britain’ in mid-2022. Using art to inspire The Solent is home to a wealth of marine life seldom seen by visitors to the shore or even by those who live around it. From scythe-tailed thresher sharks to biofluorescent anemones, there is much hidden beneath the surface with the capacity to astonish and inspire. Over its 28 solenthandbook.com
SECRETS OF THE SOLENT: A REFLECTION WILDLIFE Artist ATM, Siân Addison duration, Secrets of the Solent has used a variety of creative projects to reach a vast public audience within Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and beyond. From events, traditional interpretation panels and guided walks to videos, collaborative exhibitions and wall murals, the project has shone a spotlight on both the wildlife the Solent and the people living alongside it. This work has helped to place the marine environment front and centre in the numerous communities and tourist destinations along our coastline. Protecting our precious marine habitats together Protecting our precious marine habitats together Recreational boaters who use, visit and enjoy Studland Bay are Recreational boaters who use, visit and enjoy Studland Bay are being asked to help protect its precious habitats for the future. being asked to help protect its precious habitats for the future. After extensive consultation with the boating community and users of After extensive consultation with the boating community and users of the bay, a voluntary no anchor zone was introduced in 2021 to help the bay, a voluntary no anchor zone was introduced in 2021 to help reduce damage caused by boats dropping and weighing anchors. reduce damage caused by boats dropping and weighing anchors. This became a larger area in June 2022. This became a larger area in June 2022. The Marine Management Organisation is encouraging everyone to The Marine Management Organisation is encouraging everyone to work together to protect Studland Bay Marine Conservation Zone. work together to protect Studland Bay Marine Conservation Zone. The site’s seagrass beds are home to a protected species of The site’s seagrass beds are home to a protected species of seahorse and other wildlife, as well as forming important nursery seahorse and other wildlife, as well as forming important nursery grounds for fish stocks. grounds for fish stocks. 29 solenthandbook.com
SECRETS OF THE SOLENT: A REFLECTION Encouraging meaningful change WILDLIFE The coasts and seas of our region are teeming with wonderful wildlife and valuable habitats, but to keep them that way requires a united effort. Our daily lives have an enormous impact on our seas - most of Beach clean, Jason Allen (Southern Co-op) the pollution found there originates on land, and the ways in which we use the water can harm marine species and habitats. This means we all have the power to make a difference if we work together. Shortly after its creation, the project launched Wilder Solent, a campaign designed to help people make small changes in their everyday lives to benefit the local marine environment. Simple adjustments ranged from pledging to use environmentally friendly cleaning products to committing to a two-minute beach clean once a week. Secrets of the Solent also partnered with Hampshire Fare to raise awareness about sustainable seafood, providing guidance for retailers, hospitality, and consumers to choose seasonal, sustainable options and discover what is caught locally. The project also worked closely with the boating community to encourage the adoption of greener practices and installed three litter-collecting Seabins in marinas, raising awareness of the dramatic impact plastic can have on the health of our seas. Fostering an active community The public played an invaluable role within Secrets of the Solent – from taking part in workshops, voting for wildlife murals, attending exhibitions and events, to conducting citizen science. We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone that engaged with or took part in the project, particularly our fantastic volunteers. During its four- year span, we recruited and trained 240 Marine Champions and 33 Marine Ambassadors. With their help, we have showcased our work at many public events, given talks to local groups and sailing clubs, undertaken wildlife safaris on ferry crossings, and reached out to local communities across the region. Their dedication and enthusiasm has been the backbone of Secrets of the Solent, and we couldn’t have done it without them. Although the project is ending, we hope people will continue to work for a Wilder Solent. To learn more about our region’s waters and how you can protect them, visit hiwwt.org.uk/wildersolent 30 solenthandbook.com
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MARCHWOOD YACHT CLUB TURE TISING FEA ADVER Marchwood Yacht Club Possibly the Solent’s best kept secret, founded in 1963 Marchwood Yacht Club is a self-help Club located at the top of Southampton Water. At MYC we try to maximise the skills and talents within the membership in all aspects of running the Club. Personal service to the club is a condition of club membership that allows MYC to make a broad offering to its membership at affordable cost. The club motto “if it needs doing do it” sums up the club’s ethos and many founder members remain keen and active users of the Club. The self–help style has resulted in members building our own pontoon system, club room and bar extension, surfacing our 5 acre boat yard. Most recently members have constructed from scratch our own 14 tonne displacement self-propelled moorings barge. MYC has over 320 members but with affiliates and family members there are over 600 of us. Amongst our crew we have those relatively new to yachting to single handed transatlantic OSTAR race winners. We have a thriving cadet section who sail our club fleet of 12 Laser Pico dinghies. We also have two club owned cruisers for members use and a busy social scene that includes club rallies around the Solent, French coast and Channel Islands. MYC has its own mix of deep water and shallow draft moorings for craft not exceeding 40’- 0” max LOA, a 14 tonne Wise boat lift for lifting, transporting and launching members craft to and from its own boat yard with capacity to overwinter 165 members yachts. We welcome visiting yachts to our pontoons (max draft 3m , overnight stay £15 ) to enjoy our club facilities and very reasonably priced bar. Contact: Marchwood Yacht Club, The Magazine, Maritime Avenue, Marchwood, Hampshire, SO40 4AD. Tel: 02380 666141 Email: [email protected] 32 solenthandbook.com
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RYA SAFETRX WITH RYA RYA SafeTrx – T SEA the download that could save your life SAFETY A Outdoor watersports enthusiasts experience an element of risk every time they go out on the water. Reduce that risk with RYA SafeTrx, a free app from the RYA that uses tracking and alerting technology designed to take the search out of search and rescue. It does Laura Eaves this by making the user’s status and location accessible to HM Coastguard should the unexpected happen. The SafeTrx app provides up-to-date situational awareness information, including tracking and distress alerting data, giving HM Coastguard the means to assist inshore water users using cellular network technology. The SafeTrx system is the approved and adopted replacement for the CG66 Safety Identification Scheme and is particularly suited to watercraft users who may not carry Global Maritime Distress and Safety equipment but who want the comfort of a system that can be used if help is needed. The app provides a simple method of informing HM Coastguard of voyage plans and location, but the tracking facility is equally useful if you are doing other activities such as a coastal walk, open water swimming, or simply cruising around the many inlets and features to be found around the coast. Perhaps the most reassuring feature of SafeTrx is that you can share your live trip and location details with friends, family and emergency contacts to keep them up to date while you are on the water. The group sharing feature makes it easier for a single shore-side contact to keep track of a group going out together but in separate craft, which is perfect for families taking part in different water-based activities on a day out. How does RYA SafeTrx work? RYA SafeTrx is an app for both Android and Apple iOS smartphones that allows you to track your journey on your phone. You can enter your journey details directly from your smartphone and plan a trip knowing that should you not arrive by the time given, a nominated emergency contact will be alerted and advised to initiate appropriate action. When an emergency contact calls HM Coastguard about an overdue trip or the emergency icon is pressed, the Coastguard will have access to your location and SafeTrx trip data through a secure SafeTrx server. Whilst components of the GMDSS system remain the preferred means for communication and distress alerting, the app is a useful backup and particularly helpful for those on small craft that may not have the ability to carry standard GMDSS equipment. 34 solenthandbook.com
RYA SAFE TRX More than a mobile vessel tracking app The app provides all recreational boat users, particularly dinghy T SEA cruisers, PWC users, RIB users, canoers, kayakers, wind and kite surfers with an easily accessible and simple to use means that can SAFETY A inform HM Coastguard of their voyage plans and location in the event of distress. RYA SafeTrx is more than a mobile vessel tracking app, it is also a practical tool that provides safety information and the knowledge to be safer at sea. The explorer function provides weather information, port and marina contact details and VHF details based on your location when on the water. You can also share your journey and individual trip statistics, such as average speeds and distance, with friends and family on Facebook. How do I download RYA SafeTrx? The app is freely available to anyone who wants to be safer afloat. To download the app or to find out more information visit the RYA SafeTrx page (www. rya.org.uk/knowledge/safety/keep-in-touch/SafeTrx). There you will also find a handy list of answers to user’s Frequently Asked Questions and features. It you do not want to use the app, but still want your vessel details to be available to HM Coastguard should you ever need assistance, there is the option to register an account and vessel details online at www.rya.org.uk/knowledge/safety/keep-in-touch/safetrx 35 solenthandbook.com
CHOOSING THE RIGHT YACHT CLUB JOHN HODGINS MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY MARCHWOOD YACHT CLUB, RIVER TEST, SOUTHAMPTON ACHT CLUB CHOOSING THE RIGHT Y The club ethos Yacht clubs these days take many forms, not all of which are situated around our coasts. Those well-known yacht clubs have been around for decades, some even centuries with their long histories and traditions. More recent times have seen the emergence of in-land yacht clubs or virtual clubs established on-line or on social media. The common point of them all is an ethos that encourages a membership of likeminded people to join together to create a sense of belonging in an environment where shared experience, competition, learning, support, and friendship can all thrive. All clubs will have their own unique appeal across this spectrum, and their success depends upon their membership playing their part in supporting the events they promote both on and off the water. This is perhaps their key attraction and a point that differentiates yacht clubs from other boating facilities. It is true that it’s only a case of finding the right one for you. A club’s appeal – what’s its USP? Location is clearly important but perhaps not the trump card. The type of club offering is key. A predominantly cruising club will not suit the keen racer and visa versa. For prospective non boat owning members the ability to access sailing opportunities either as skipper or crew might point you towards clubs that have craft available for use by members. Virtual clubs are particularly suited to those seeking such opportunities. Some clubs will offer members the ability to join as novice sailors perhaps starting sailing a dinghy where training and support is available from RYA qualified club volunteers. Confidence and knowledge can be built upon if moving on to big boat ownership is the goal. The social side of club life is important and the most successful have a vibrant social calendar shaped around sailing. Member’s age ranges can often exceed sixty or more years separating the youngest 36 solenthandbook.com
CHOOSING THE RIGHT YACHT CLUB from the oldest so must appeal to a wide range of members interests. ACHT CLUB These often include club racing, rallies, regattas, cruising in company, talks, dances, quizzes, themed evenings, shore-based outings and visits etc, that give great CHOOSING THE RIGHT Y socialising opportunities; An important consideration when some clubs don’t have an extensive off-water program or perhaps even a clubhouse or bar! Others exist purely with a clubhouse bar/restaurant and not much more. Of course, the primary reason coastal yacht clubs see a steady stream of applications will be their ability to offer moorings at competitive rates to members and at considerable saving to a commercial marina. These moorings are however, seldom walk ashore and may not provide services such as electricity or water. For the most part yacht club moorings are likely to be mid river or sheltered estuary swinging moorings accessible by tender or on rare occasions perhaps a taxi service provided by the club and manned by its members. It is often the case that many become members of more than one club. Some clubs may not offer the full range of what’s required, or in the desired location. As mentioned previously one club may have a stronger offering than another so moorings and wintering may be at two different clubs. Do however bear in mind that this will increase costs, and splits one’s ability to fully support either which will be very much expected by both. Fortunately members at Marchwood Yacht Club have the benefit of the full range of facilities including moorings, boat hoist and winter storage ashore, club room restaurant and bar. Choose wisely Clubs do vary enormously in their offering. So too in their formality, traditions and rules. Many require members to participate in the running of the club through volunteering, duty rosters, maintenance or other support to its management committee in order to keep fees affordable. This self-help model may not suit everyone. A few clubs require nothing more beyond payment of the subscription. These latter establishment’s membership fees are at the upper end of the cost spectrum and generally employ full time staff. All clubs welcome new members, but it’s as well to check their website concerning fees and some may have waiting lists for moorings or membership. Better still pick up the phone and chat with the Commodore or Membership Secretary about the club, and importantly state your expectations of club membership. All clubs positively encourage those considering membership to come and have a look around. So, if you’re a sociable type looking for something that enriches your sailing enjoyment, a yacht club might be for you. 37 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS DIARY Y SOLENT EVENTS DIAR RSYC Southampton Water Summer Series RSYC SOUTHAMPTON WATER SERIES 8 January – 19 November Throughout the year the Royal Southampton Yacht Club runs several Series of keel boat races in Southampton Water - Frostbite, Twilight, Summer, and Winter Series. Catering for both IRC and Club rated boats, they run on Sunday mornings in the winter months and Thursday evenings in the summer. They welcome entries to individual races or whole series. Entry and full details are available on the website. rsyc.org.uk/racing/ RSYC Southampton Water Frostbite Series COWES ETCHELLS REGATTAS March – October Etchells are 30 feet of pure one-design sailing machine, designed to plane downwind and sail easily in light winds built locally by David Heritage Racing Yachts. It is the largest fleet of dry sailed keelboat in Cowes. Sailed by a crew of 3 or 4 keeping to a weight limit of 285kg, more fun than big boats but with less hassle and maintenance! A full programme for 2023 can be viewed on the website etchellsuk.co.uk Loaner boats are available and we have an active youth programme. Committee boat starts, windward/leeward courses. The World Championship will be held in Miami in April. Class Secretary: Jan Ford. Contact: 07747 602707 or [email protected] 38 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS DIARY JOG CHAMPIONSHIP Y 25 March – 30 September The Junior Offshore Group (JOG) was established in 1950 to allow smaller yachts to compete offshore; it organizes highly competitive races for IRC rated yachts. JOG runs a full programme every season, grouped into an Inshore and Offshore Series. Competitors enjoy a high standard of racing and a similarly high level of camaraderie at SOLENT EVENTS DIAR the parties which are held at the end of almost every race in a host port. Most JOG races start in the Solent from the club’s fixed line and distinctive starting box just east of Egypt Point, Cowes. Contact: [email protected] JOG Yacht Racing, Rick Tomlinson RSYC DOUBLE HANDED SERIES 1 April – 14 October The Royal Southampton Yacht Club has been running its popular weekend Double Handed races for over 40 years. Catering for both IRC and Club rated boats, some races are run in and around the Solent, and some run to destinations along the South coast. This year they have nine races split into two Sub-Series (Solent and Passage). They welcome entries to individual races, Sub-series, or the whole Series. Races start with the Spring Solent Double (2 races on 1 April) and finish with the Autumn Solent Double (2 races on 14 October). In between they will race to Weymouth and back, round the Island, to the West Princessa buoy and back, and to the Poole Bar Buoy and back. Visit the website for full details and online entry. rsyc.org.uk/racing/ A WORLD FOR ADVENTURE Tel: 0203 667 6783 www.axoparlondongroup.com 39 solenthandbook.com SW898_LDN-AXO_SolentHandbook_82x52+3.indd 1SW898_LDN-AXO_SolentHandbook_82x52+3.indd 1 24/02/2023 13:5224/02/2023 13:52
SOLENT EVENTS DIARY Y X ONE DESIGN CLASS April – October The XOD class is unique in having six active fleets around the Solent, located at Cowes, Hamble, Itchenor, Lymington, Parkstone and Yarmouth. Each Division manages its own, very active, mid-week and weekend racing schedules with 60 races or more per season. SOLENT EVENTS DIARThe annual championships are held during Cowes Week with between 50 - 80 boats participating. XODs attract many experienced helms and crew and the standard of racing at the front of the fleets is very high. XODs are traditionally the largest entry in Cowes Week sailing from home ports to participate each year. DARING CLASS April – October The Daring was designed as a One Design by Arthur Robb, based on his successful 5.5 meter yacht Vision, the silver medal winner in the 1956 Olympics. The classic design has proved popular and enduring, offering great value for money for this type of One Design racing because the boats are sailed as syndicates of 3 or 4 owners, making sailing affordable for friends and families. Darings race in the Solent off Cowes every weekend from 1 May to early October and has some of the best social events throughout the season. There are Darings for sale and charter, please go to the Daring website for more information. Daring Class RORC EASTER CHALLENGE 7 – 9 April The RORC Easter Challenge is the Club’s official training regatta where race coaches and the team from North U Regatta services are among those imparting their knowledge both on the water and post-race at the RORC Cowes Clubhouse for free to all competitors. Crews can even request coaching on specific aspects eg: sail trim, starting, manoeuvres, etc. Uniquely for the event, RRS41 is relaxed, enabling coaches to come on board or crew to step off on to a coach RIB during racing. Combined with the popular debriefs after each days racing, and the unique prizes of Easter eggs, the RORC Easter challenge is the perfect way to kick start the domestic season. rorc.org 40 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS DIARYSOLENT EVENTS DIARY ISLAND SAILING CLUB EVENING RACE SERIES Y 11 April – 29 August – Tuesday Nights The Island Sailing Club’s ever-popular Evening Race Series provide races for all sizes of boat on Tuesday evenings, except for Cowes Week, and Cowes Classic Week through to the end August when the traditional ‘Bang & Go Back’ Race marks the end of the evening season. Other open events take place throughout the year including SOLENT EVENTS DIAR three inshore races, Christchurch Bay, Solent race and the Nab Tower races. Contact the ISC for details – [email protected]. RSYC BEAULIEU RIVER SERIES 15 April – 9 September Having proved very popular, this Series is now in its third year. Catering for keel boat racing just off the Beaulieu River, with the option to return to Gins Clubhouse (Beaulieu River) for a sailor’s supper. The Series is held during the week and weekends, tide dependent and uses Club class ratings. This year the RSYC are excited to announce the RSYC Beaulieu Regatta, which will be held over two days: 17/18 June (overnight berthing available), the Beaulieu Racing Practice Day: 15 April and the RSYC Solent Triangle race: 9 September. The racing schedule and entry details are available on the website. rsyc.org.uk/racing/ RSYC Beaulieu River Racing COWES SPRING CLASSICS 12 – 14 May Cowes Spring Classics, which is based at Shepards Marina, is a regatta for wooden classics designed before 1970 to include, Cruisers and Cruiser racers, Gaff Rigged yachts and Pilot Cutters, Day Boats and Raters, Classic Metre yachts, affordable Classic Cruisers plus modern Spirit of Tradition yachts. The racing will be organised by the Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club in classes using either IRC or OGA handicaps. With its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, Cowes Spring Classics is now very much part of classic racing scene on the Solent. cowesspringclassics.com 41 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS DIARY Y DE GUINGAND BOWL 13 May Presented to the club by ‘Buster’ (Vice Commodore 1957-1959) and Mrs De Guingand, the Bowl goes to the winner of the annual race bearing their name. This will head out from the Royal Yacht Squadron line, rounding marks and waypoints, and taking in the SOLENT EVENTS DIARheadlands of the central English Channel, before returning to the Solent to finish. VICE ADMIRAL’S CUP 19 – 21 May The Royal Ocean Racing Clubs Annual Vice Admiral’s Cup regatta will take place from Friday 19 - Sunday 21 May. This event, held in the Solent, is designed for class racing and closely banded IRC classes with a mixture of windward/leeward and round the can’s races. A social programme will be based at the RORC Cowes Clubhouse. Among the classes expected in 2023 are Performance 40, J/111, J/109, HP30, J/70, SB20, Quarter Ton. CONTESSA RSYC REGATTA 2023 9 – 11 June A weekend of Contessa Racing including 26 Nationals, 32 points series and open classes to include all Contessas racing under handicap. The intention is to hold a minimum of three races on Saturday 10 June and two on Sunday 11 June if all races are completed one discard will be permitted. There is a full social programme included over the weekend including a reception on Friday evening and an informal supper on Saturday with dancing to The Accelerators. Prize Giving will be on Sunday with a Hog Roast available. In recognition to the immense contribution made by Jeremy Rogers, there will be an exhibition in the RSYC displaying many of his achievements. Contessa RSYC Regatta, Jake Sugden IRC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP 23 – 25 June The annual championship which brings together the cream of IRC boats competing in tightly banded IRC classes. A unique formula allows an overall winner to come from any class, giving the smaller boats as much chance as the grand prix racers to claim the overall title if sailed well. 42 solenthandbook.com
Marine electronic Specialist Your Sight and sound on the water 01202 237585 [email protected] Y WWW.PLATINUMMARINE.CO.UK @UKPLATINUMMARINE SOLENT EVENTS DIAR Round the Island Race, Paul Wyeth ROUND THE ISLAND RACE 1 July Round the Island Race is set to attract thousands of sailors from all over Great Britain, mainland Europe and from as far away as the USA, to the Isle of Wight on 1 July 2023 for the 92nd running of this unique race. The race is popular with everyone from world renowned professional sailors to families and first-time racers, and it boasts a range of classes including monohulls of all sizes, multihulls, Gaffers, and Classics. Organised by the Isle of Wight’s Island Sailing Club since 1931, the Round the Island Race is one of the UK’s largest participation sporting events and is expected to attract as many as 1,500 boats. It will begin and end in Cowes with the first start at 0800, competitors are expected to enjoy a spectacular first leg down to the Needles and onwards to the finish line off Cowes. Spectators will be able to enjoy fantastic views all around the island. As in previous years The Ellen MacArthur Trust is the official race charity, whose work is focused on rebuilding confidence of young people after cancer, through sailing and adventure. Sailors interested in participating in the event are able to enter online. For more information about the race please visit the website. roundtheisland.org.uk 43 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS DIARY YCOWES CLASSICS WEEK 9 July – 14 July The 15th edition of Cowes Classics Week runs from 9 to 14 July 2023. Organised by The Royal London Yacht Club, it has become the largest classic yacht regatta in the world and offers a different racing and social experience to other Cowes regattas. Class racing for all SOLENT EVENTS DIARmetre boats, classic racing keelboats and one designs including, but not restricted to, 12mR, 8mR, 6mR (classic and modern), 5.5mR, Daring, Dragon (classic and modern), Solent Sunbeam, Bembridge Redwing, Seaview Mermaid, Squib, XOD, Folkboat, Victory, Bembridge, Loch Long and Yarmouth One Designs, Flying Fifteen and Swallow. There are also classes for Classic Yachts including a non-spinnaker class, Classical/Revival Day Boats, S&S Swans and Old Gaffers. Typically the one-design dayboats have two races a day from committee boats with windward-leeward courses and some round-the-cans courses, satisfying their keenly competitive spirit. Handicap classes and larger yachts on the other hand will have one longer, round-the-cans race around the Solent each day, creating great opportunities to gain an edge with the varying winds and currents. A full social calendar of after-racing activity, including the legendary daily afternoon tea and cakes at the clubhouse, adds to the fun and social atmosphere of the week. Cowes Classics Day on 9 July is open to competitors and visitors alike and free to attend. Visitors will see classic cars and classic power boats joining the classic yachts, creating a wonderful spectacle for like-minded enthusiasts of all things classic. cowesclassicsweek.org ETCHELLS NATIONAL AND EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS National: 14 – 16 July | European: 26 – 28 August For more than 50 years the Etchells class has enjoyed solid and steady growth with over fifty active fleets worldwide. The National and European Championships will each see three days of racing on the Solent, The Nationals run by The Royal Yacht Squadron and the Europeans by The Royal London Yacht Club. Class Secretary: Jan Ford. Contact: 07747 602707 or [email protected] etchellsukfleet.co.uk TAITTINGER ROYAL SOLENT YACHT CLUB REGATTA 14 – 16 July Following 15 years of sponsorship from Champagne Taittinger, this increasingly popular regatta continues to please sailors and spectators alike. The 2022 Regatta was an exceptional weekend with champagne sailing on both days with three thoroughly enjoyable races. Hosted by the Royal Solent Yacht Club in the picturesque harbour town of Yarmouth, the regatta attracts a real mix of sailors and yachts and is popular for its fun vibe, and exciting inshore races based in the Western Solent. The legendary Taittinger Champagne Reception will take place again on the Friday evening and the Towers Party by kind permission of John Caulcutt will be on Saturday evening. The Royal Solent is looking forward to welcoming competitors old and new to the 2023 Taittinger Regatta. 44 solenthandbook.com
LUXURY FLOATING HOLIDAY WATERLODGES Ever dreamt of an Island getaway? Looking for a staycation with a difference? WELCOME ABOARD! Delightful accommodation equipped with all you may need for a break on the water. UNWIND AND MAKE MEMORIES Enjoy a lazy breakfast on the patio. Experience unrivalled views of the Solent from the roof terrace. yarmouth-harbour.co.uk Yarmouth Harbour, The Quay Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, PO41 0NT [email protected] | +44 (0)1983 760321 Berthing available if arriving by boat. Call 01983 760321 for further details. 45 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS DIARY Y BRITISH CLASSIC WEEK 15 – 22 July The UK’s leading classic yacht regatta, British Classic Week, takes place in Cowes this year from 15 – 22 July. Organised by British Classic Yacht Club (BCYC) and hosted by Cowes Yacht Haven, the regatta attracts a fleet of beautifully maintained classic sail and motor SOLENT EVENTS DIARyachts from across the UK and Europe. During the six-race series organised by the prestigious Royal Yacht Squadron, there is plenty of action on the water and much of the racing can be watched from the Esplanade. The complex tides of the busy Solent deliver challenging conditions for the talented sailors racing in the UK’s most iconic stretch of water for competitive sailing. As well as fast-paced racing, the regatta offers a vibrant social scene, including drinks at the Royal Yacht Squadron, a dock party, and a prize giving dinner. britishclassicweek.co.uk British Classic Week, Chris Brown Photography ROLEX FASTNET RACE 22 July The 50th edition of the world’s largest offshore race will start from the Royal Yacht Squadron line on Saturday 22 July, with spectators enjoying the atmosphere of the international yachting festival as boats complete the 690 nautical mile course from Cowes to Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, via the Fastnet Rock. The biennial race is a rite of passage for all those taking part where the ultimate goal is to take home the historic Fastnet Challenge Cup - first presented back in 1925. Rolex Fastnet Race, Kurt Arrigo - Rolex 46 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS DIARY COWES WEEK Y 29 July – 4 August Since 1826 Cowes Week has played a key part in the British sporting summer calendar and is one of the UK’s longest running and most successful sporting events. The seven-day regatta now stages around 40 daily races for up to 600 boats and has a varied race programme to suit the most competitively campaigned boats, cruiser SOLENT EVENTS DIAR racers, and everything in between; there’s something for everyone at this, the world’s best known sailing regatta. Cowes Week attracts thousands of competitors ranging from Olympic and world- class professionals to weekend sailors, and in excess of 100,000 spectators come to watch the sailing, enjoy the social scene, and to experience the unique atmosphere. It’s a regatta that tests all the different sailing skills and also brings together sailors from all over the world for its hugely competitive racing. cowesweek.co.uk Cowes Week, Paul Wyeth CHICHESTER HARBOUR RACE REGATTA WEEK 14 –18 August Come and join Chichester Harbour race week, hosted by Hayling Island Sailing Club, for some great racing over three race tracks, each offering a mixture of handicap and class starts. chichesterharbourraceweek.sailevent.net 47 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS DIARY Y FOLKBOAT WEEK 19 – 25 August The Royal Solent Yacht Club in Yarmouth is looking forward to hosting the 58th Folkboat Week, sponsored by Lymington Yacht Haven. This annual event has run every year since 1966 and has grown in popularity with large fleets participating from Yarmouth, SOLENT EVENTS DIARLymington and further afield. Folkboat Week attracts both Nordic and Classic Folkboats and the racing is based in the Western Solent. Folkboat Regatta COWES-TORQUAY-COWES INTERNATIONAL OFFSHORE POWERBOAT RACE 27 August 2023 will once again see the legendary Cowes-Torquay-Cowes Powerboat Race return. Teams from around the world are expected to line up at the Royal Yacht Squadron, Cowes at approx.10am. The 200 Mile classic has long been recognised as one of powerboating’s toughest challenges and comparisons have been made with Le Mans and the Indy 500. A fleet of 25 boats are expected to start and if conditions are calm, the winner could complete the course in less than 3 hours. Starting 30 minutes later, there is a shorter race, The Cowes/Poole/Cowes, for boats that don’t have the required range for the CTC and this fleet will race from Cowes, past Bournemouth Pier and returning through the Western Solent. All race boats can be viewed in the wet pits in Cowes Yacht Haven from Sunday 27 August. cowestorquaycowes.co.uk Cowes-Torquay-Cowes International Offshore Powerboat Race 48 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS DIARY LITTLE BRITAIN CHALLENGE CUP Y 8 – 9 September The Property and Construction industry’s favourite regatta, since 1988. Taking place in Cowes, with racing run by the Island Sailing Club, the action-packed two-day regatta SOLENT EVENTS DIAR attracts a large cross-section of organisations and individuals who are involved in the property and building world. Classes for one- Little Britain Challenge Cup, Paul Wyeth design boats, cruising and sports boats are organised. Based at Shepard’s Wharf Marina, crews can look forward to a great social programme after racing each evening. littlebritain.co.uk SOUTHAMPTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 15 – 24 September Join us for Southampton International Boat Show at Mayflower Park, Southampton from 15-24 September 2023. The show features everything the leisure marine industry has to offer. Ranging from paddleboards to superyachts, and all the products and services you need to enjoy life in, on or around the water! 49 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS CALENDAR WITH THANKS TO SCRA AR ALEND SOLENT EVENTS C Paul Wyeth APRIL 01/04/2023 – 02/04/2023 Etchells Youth Academy Trials Royal London Yacht Club 01/04/2023 Spring Solent Double (2 Races) Royal Southampton Yacht Club 01/04/2023 Spring Spithead 3 Portsmouth Sailing Club 02/04/2023 Spring Series 4 Warsash SC 03/04/2023 – 05/04/2023 J70 Youth Race Training Royal Yacht Squadron 05/04/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - Early Bird 2 Hamble River Sailing Club 07/04/2023 – 08/04/2023 JOG Race to Cherbourg R1 JOG 07/04/2023 – 09/04/2023 RORC Easter Challenge Royal Ocean Racing Club 09/04/2023 – 10/04/2023 JOG Race from Cherbourg R2 JOG 11/04/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 12/04/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - Early Bird 3 Hamble River Sailing Club 13/04/2023 ECSC Thursday evening spring series all in race 1 East Cowes Sailing Club 15/04/2023 – 16/04/2023 Weekend Series Wk 1 Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 15/04/2023 XOD Summer Series - Race 1 Hamble River Sailing Club 15/04/2023 Spring Spithead 4 Portsmouth Sailing Club 15/04/2023 – 16/04/2023 Spring Championship 1 - 2 Warsash Sailing Club 15/04/2023 – 16/04/2023 Short-handed 4x4 Series I Royal Southern Yacht Club 15/04/2023 RSYC Racing Practice Day Royal Southampton Yacht Club 15/04/2023 – 16/04/2023 Inshore Races 1 & 2: Poole & Back Solo Offshore Racing Club 16/04/2023 Spring Series 5 Warsash SC 16/04/2023 RSYC Reserve Race Practice Day Royal Southampton Yacht Club 18/04/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 19/04/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - Early Bird 4 Hamble River Sailing Club 20/04/2023 ECSC Thursday evening spring series Race 1 East Cowes Sailing Club 20/04/2023 RLYC PropSail Training Day Royal London Yacht Club 22/04/2023 Spring Spithead 5 Portsmouth Sailing Club 22/04/2023 – 23/04/2023 Spring Championship 3 - 4 Warsash Sailing Club 22/04/2023 – 23/04/2023 NHS Regatta ISLAND SAILING CLUB 22/04/2023 – 23/04/2023 Passage Series: Chichester Royal Southern Yacht Club 23/04/2023 Spring Series 6 Warsash SC 25/04/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 26/04/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - Bottle Pursuit Hamble River Sailing Club 27/04/2023 Spring series R2 East Cowes Sailing Club 28/04/2023 – 29/04/2023 JOG Race to St Vaast JOG 29/04/2023 – 30/04/2023 Members’ Open Regatta Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 29/04/2023 XOD Summer Series - Race 2 Hamble River Sailing Club 29/04/2023 Spring Spithead 6 Portsmouth Sailing Club 29/04/2023 – 30/04/2023 Etchells Spring Regatta ISLAND SAILING CLUB 29/04/2023 – 30/04/2023 Solent Cruiser Race Royal Southern Yacht Club 29/04/2023 – 30/04/2023 RORC Cervantes Trophy Race RORC 29/04/2023 – 30/04/2023 Cowes Solent Series Royal London Yacht Club 29/04/2023 – 30/04/2023 Sea Fever Regatta Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club MAY 02/05/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 03/05/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - A Series 1 Hamble River Sailing Club 04/05/2023 Spring series R3 East Cowes Sailing Club 06/05/2023 – 07/05/2023 Summer Series: May Regatta Royal Southern Yacht Club 06/05/2023 – 08/05/2023 Inshore Races 3, 4 and 5: Eastern Solent & Hayling Bay Solo Offshore Racing Club 07/05/2023 – 08/05/2023 Cowes Solent Series Royal Thames Yacht Club 07/05/2023 MOCRA 1 RVYC 08/05/2023 Kings Coronation Regatta RVYC 09/05/2023 – 11/05/2023 UK Firefighters’ Sailing Challenge Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 09/05/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 10/05/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - A Series 2 Hamble River Sailing Club 11/05/2023 Twilight Series Race 1 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 11/05/2023 Spring series R4 East Cowes Sailing Club 12/05/2023 – 14/05/2023 Cowes Spring Classics Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 12/05/2023 RSYC Beaulieu River Series Race 1 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 13/05/2023 – 14/05/2023 Weekend Series Week 2 Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 13/05/2023 XOD Summer Series - Race 3 Hamble River Sailing Club 13/05/2023 Christchurch Bay Race (Inshore Series) ISLAND SAILING CLUB 13/05/2023 Weymouth Double Leg 1 ( out) Royal Southampton Yacht Club 50 solenthandbook.com
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SOLENT EVENTS CALENDAR BRING YOUR BOAT HOME AR ALEND TO THE BEAULIEU RIVER SOLENT EVENTS C Rick Tomlinson 13/05/2023 JOG Race to Weymouth JOG 13/05/2023 – 14/05/2023 Contessa 32 regatta ISLAND SAILING CLUB 13/05/2023 – 14/05/2023 Etchells Bedrock Trophy Royal Southern Yacht Club 13/05/2023 – 14/05/2023 RORC De Guingand Bowl RORC 13/05/2023 – 14/05/2023 Cowes Keelboat Championship 1 Royal Thames Yacht Club 13/05/2023 – 14/05/2023 Cannonball Trophy Royal London Yacht Club 14/05/2023 Weymouth Double Leg 2 ( back) Royal Southampton Yacht Club 14/05/2023 MOCRA 2 RVYC 16/05/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 17/05/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - A Series 3 Hamble River Sailing Club 18/05/2023 Twilight Series Race 2 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 18/05/2023 Spring series R5 East Cowes Sailing Club 19/05/2023 – 21/05/2023 Offshore Races 1 & 2: Cherbourg Peninsula Solo Offshore Racing Club 20/05/2023 Bar YC vs RNSA J70 Day Royal Yacht Squadron 20/05/2023 – 21/05/2023 City Livery ISLAND SAILING CLUB 20/05/2023 JOG Race from Cowes to Yarmouth JOG 20/05/2023 – 21/05/2023 LEGAL CUP ISLAND SAILING CLUB 20/05/2023 – 21/05/2023 Cowes Solent Series Royal London Yacht Club 21/05/2023 JOG Race Yarmouth to Cowes JOG 23/05/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 24/05/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - A Series 4 Hamble River Sailing Club 25/05/2023 Twilight Series Race 3 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 25/05/2023 Spring series R 6 East Cowes Sailing Club 26/05/2023 RLYC Cowes to Deauville Race Royal London Yacht Club 26/05/2023 Race to Deauville with RSthnYC & RLYC JOG, RSthnYC & RLYC 26/05/2023 RSYC Beaulieu River Series Race 2 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 27/05/2023 – 28/05/2023 Weekend Series Week 3 Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 27/05/2023 – 28/05/2023 Sonata Southern Championship Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club/National Sonata Association 27/05/2023 XOD Summer Series - Race 4 Hamble River Sailing Club 27/05/2023 – 28/05/2023 Bank of England Regatta ISLAND SAILING CLUB 30/05/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 31/05/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - A Series 5 Hamble River Sailing Club JUNE 01/06/2023 Twilight Series Race 4 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 01/06/2023 ECSC Mid Summer R1 East Cowes Sailing Club 02/06/2023 Sonar Business Regatta ISLAND SAILING CLUB 03/06/2023 Sonar Business Regatta ISLAND SAILING CLUB 03/06/2023 – 04/06/2023 Summer Series: June Regatta Royal Southern Yacht Club 03/06/2023 – 04/06/2023 Cowes Solent Series Royal Ocean Racing Club 04/06/2023 MOCRA 3 RVYC 05/06/2023 – 09/06/2023 IDOR ISLAND SAILING CLUB 06/06/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 07/06/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - A Series 6 Hamble River Sailing Club 08/06/2023 Twilight Series Race 5 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 08/06/2023 Mid summer R2 East Cowes Sailing Club 08/06/2023 – 10/06/2023 Pro Sail Tour Royal London Yacht Club 09/06/2023 – 10/06/2023 JOG Race to Alderney JOG 09/06/2023 RSYC Beaulieu River Series Race 3 Royal Southampton Yacht Club Discover your perfect berth today 10/06/2023 – 11/06/2023 Contessa Regatta Weekend Royal Solent Yacht Club 10/06/2023 – 11/06/2023 VPRS Regatta & Weekend Series Week 4 Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 10/06/2023 XOD Summer Series - Race 5 Hamble River Sailing Club beaulieuriver.co.uk 10/06/2023 – 11/06/2023 BPMI ISLAND SAILING CLUB 10/06/2023 – 11/06/2023 Passage Series: Portsmouth Royal Southern Yacht Club 10/06/2023 Inshore Race 6: Round Isle of Wight Solo Offshore Racing Club 01590 616200 13/06/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 14/06/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - Copper Kettle Pursuit Hamble River Sailing Club 15/06/2023 PropSail Regatta Royal London Yacht Club 15/06/2023 Mid summer R3 East Cowes Sailing Club 15/06/2023 – 17/06/2023 J/Cup Royal Southern Yacht Club 16/06/2023 – 17/06/2023 RORC Morgan Cup RORC 17/06/2023 Beaulieu Regatta Royal Southampton Yacht Club 17/06/2023 – 18/06/2023 Cowes Solent Series Royal Yacht Squadron 18/06/2023 Beaulieu Regatta Royal Southampton Yacht Club 18/06/2023 MOCRA 4 RVYC 20/06/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 21/06/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - B Series 1 Hamble River Sailing Club 22/06/2023 Summer Series Race 1 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 52 solenthandbook.com
BRING YOUR BOAT HOME TO THE BEAULIEU RIVER Discover your perfect berth today beaulieuriver.co.uk 01590 616200 53 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS CALENDAR AR ALEND SOLENT EVENTS C Sam Kurtul 22/06/2023 Mid summer R4 East Cowes Sailing Club 23/06/2023 BSS ISLAND SAILING CLUB 23/06/2023 – 25/06/2023 RORC IRC National Championship RORC 24/06/2023 – 25/06/2023 Weekend Series Week 5 Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 24/06/2023 – 25/06/2023 Cowes Keelboat Championship 2 Royal Yacht Squadron 25/06/2023 XOD Summer Series - Race 6 Hamble River Sailing Club 27/06/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 28/06/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - B Series 2 Hamble River Sailing Club 29/06/2023 Summer Series Race 2 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 29/06/2023 Mid summer R5 East Cowes Sailing Club 30/06/2023 – 01/07/2023 Offshore Race 3: Le Havre Solo Offshore Racing Club JULY 01/07/2023 ROUND THE ISLAND RACE Island Sailing Club 01/07/2023 XOD Wattie Trophy Hamble River Sailing Club 03/07/2023 – 05/07/2023 Commodore’s Invitational J70 Regatta Royal Yacht Squadron 04/07/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 05/07/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - B Series 3 Hamble River Sailing Club 05/07/2023 – 07/07/2023 Oxford Cambridge Varsity Match (Sonars) ISLAND SAILING CLUB 06/07/2023 – 09/07/2023 RYS Members’ Regatta Royal Yacht Squadron 06/07/2023 Summer Series Race 3 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 06/07/2023 Mid summer R6 East Cowes Sailing Club 07/07/2023 Cowes to St Malo race with JOG Royal Ocean Racing Club 07/07/2023 – 08/07/2023 RORC Cowes-Dinard-St Malo Race RORC 08/07/2023 – 09/07/2023 Weekend Series Week 6 Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 08/07/2023 – 09/07/2023 Summer Series: July Regatta Royal Southern Yacht Club 08/07/2023 – 09/07/2023 Cowes Solent Series Island Sailing Club 08/07/2023 – 09/07/2023 Portcullis Regatta Portcullis Sailing Club 08/07/2023 RSYC Beaulieu River Series Race 4 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 10/07/2023 – 14/07/2023 Cowes Classics Week 2023 Royal London Yacht Club 12/07/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - B Series 4 Hamble River Sailing Club 13/07/2023 Summer Series Race 4 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 13/07/2023 Late summer R1 East Cowes Sailing Club 15/07/2023 – 16/07/2023 Taittinger Regatta Weekend Royal Solent Yacht Club 15/07/2023 – 16/07/2023 Swallows Nationals Royal Yacht Squadron 15/07/2023 Inshore Race (Inshore Series) ISLAND SAILING CLUB 15/07/2023 Poole Bar Double Royal Southampton Yacht Club 16/07/2023 MOCRA 5 RVYC 18/07/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 19/07/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - B Series 5 Hamble River Sailing Club 20/07/2023 Summer Series Race 5 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 20/07/2023 Late summer R2 East Cowes Sailing Club 21/07/2023 – 23/07/2023 Portsmouth SC Regatta Portsmouth Sailing Club 22/07/2023 – 23/07/2023 XOD Central Solent Championships Hamble River Sailing Club 22/07/2023 ECSC Regatta East Cowes Sailing Club 22/07/2023 – 23/08/2023 Etchells Red Funnel Regatta Royal London Yacht Club 22/07/2023 – 28/07/2023 Rolex Fastnet Race RORC 22/07/2023 Cowes Solent Series & Annual Regatta Household Division Yacht Club 23/07/2023 Cowes Solent Series Royal Yacht Squadron 25/07/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 26/07/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - B Series 6 Hamble River Sailing Club 27/07/2023 Late summer R3 East Cowes Sailing Club 29/07/2023 – 04/08/2023 Cowes Week Cowes Combined Clubs AUGUST 02/08/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - Cowes Week Pursuit Hamble River Sailing Club 04/08/2023 – 06/08/2023 Offshore Races 4 & 5 Solo Offshore Racing Club 06/08/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - C Series 5 Hamble River Sailing Club 08/08/2023 – 13/08/2023 RC44 Regatta Royal Yacht Squadron 08/08/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 09/08/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - C Series 1 Hamble River Sailing Club 09/08/2023 – 11/08/2023 IRC East Coast Championship Ramsgate Week/Royal Temple Yacht Club 10/08/2023 Late summer R4 East Cowes Sailing Club 12/08/2023 Anniversary Event Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 12/08/2023 XOD Palm Salver Hamble River Sailing Club 12/08/2023 – 13/08/2023 RORC Channel Race RORC 12/08/2023 – 14/08/2023 RS Tera Nationals RVYC 13/08/2023 – 18/08/2023 75th Anniversary Edinburgh Cup Royal Yacht Squadron 54 solenthandbook.com
A VISITOR & RESIDENT BERTHING RIBS, YACHTS & MOTORBOATS DRY SAILING UP TO 6 TONNES 01983 297821 [email protected] MARIN | cowesharbourshepardsmarina.co.uk LIFTING UP TO 40 TONNES STORAGE, CHANDLERY & TRADES 01983 299385 [email protected] | ARD cowesharbourservices.co.uk Y T A O B 55 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS CALENDAR AR ALEND SOLENT EVENTS C Paul Wyeth 15/08/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 16/08/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - C Series 2 Hamble River Sailing Club 17/08/2023 Late summer R5 East Cowes Sailing Club 19/08/2023 RSYC Beaulieu River Series Race 5 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 20/08/2023 – 25/08/2023 Folkboat Week Royal Solent Yacht Club 20/08/2023 – 26/08/2023 Tempest World Championships Portsmouth Sailing Club 20/08/2023 Swallows & Amazons (Sonars) ISLAND SAILING CLUB 22/08/2023 ISC Tuesday Evening Race Series ISLAND SAILING CLUB 24/08/2023 All in race 2 East Cowes Sailing Club 25/08/2023 JOG Race to St Peter Port JOG 25/08/2023 – 28/08/2023 Offshore Races 6, 7 & 8: Weymouth & Back Solo Offshore Racing Club 26/08/2023 – 27/08/2023 Weekend Series Week 9 Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 26/08/2023 Island Double Royal Southampton Yacht Club 26/08/2023 – 28/08/2023 Etchells European Championships Royal London Yacht Club 26/08/2023 – 27/08/2023 Cowes Solent Series Royal Ocean Racing Club 26/08/2023 – 27/08/2023 Dragon South Coast Champs Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club/BDA 27/08/2023 Brunch R1 East Cowes Sailing Club 29/08/2023 Bang & Go Back ISLAND SAILING CLUB 30/08/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - C Series 4 Hamble River Sailing Club 31/08/2023 – 08/09/2023 6M Worlds Royal Yacht Squadron SEPTEMBER 01/09/2023 – 02/09/2023 RORC Castle Rock Race / IRC DH Nationals Race 1 RORC 02/09/2023 – 03/09/2023 Passage Series: Yarmouth Royal Southern Yacht Club 02/09/2023 – 03/09/2023 Cowes Solent Series Royal Thames Yacht Club 02/09/2023 RSYC Beaulieu River Series Race 6 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 02/09/2023 Solent Gaffers Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club/Solent Gaffers Association 03/09/2023 Brunch R2 East Cowes Sailing Club 08/09/2023 – 09/09/2023 Little Britain ISLAND SAILING CLUB 09/09/2023 – 10/09/2023 Stug Perry Trophy ISLAND SAILING CLUB 09/09/2023 Nab Tower Race (Inshore Series) ISLAND SAILING CLUB 09/09/2023 Solent Triangle Race Royal Southampton Yacht Club 09/09/2023 – 10/09/2023 Contessa 32 - Solent Series Portsmouth Sailing Club 09/09/2023 – 10/09/2023 Etchells South Coast Championships Royal London Yacht Club 09/09/2023 JOG Race to Lymington JOG 09/09/2023 – 10/09/2023 Women’s Open Keelboat Championship Royal Southern Yacht Club 09/09/2023 – 10/09/2023 RORC IRC DH Nationals Race RORC 09/09/2023 – 10/09/2023 Stug Perry Trophy Island Sailing Club 09/09/2023 – 10/09/2023 Squib Southern Championships RVYC 09/09/2023 – 10/09/2023 Battle of Britain Regatta Royal Air Force Yacht Club 10/09/2023 Brunch R3 East Cowes Sailing Club 10/09/2023 JOG Race Lymington to Cowes JOG 11/09/2023 – 14/09/2023 RCSA ISLAND SAILING CLUB 16/09/2023 JOG Race to Poole JOG 16/09/2023 – 17/09/2023 Summer Series: September Regatta Royal Southern Yacht Club 16/09/2023 – 17/09/2023 Cowes Solent Series Royal Ocean Racing Club 16/09/2023 – 17/09/2023 Portcullis Autumn Regatta Portcullis Sailing Club 16/09/2023 – 17/09/2023 Merrydown Regatta RVYC 16/09/2023 – 17/09/2023 Inshore Races 7 & 8 Solo Offshore Racing Club 17/09/2023 Brunch R4 East Cowes Sailing Club 17/09/2023 JOG Race from Poole to Cowes JOG 23/09/2023 Wednesday Evening Racing - C Series 3 Hamble River Sailing Club 23/09/2023 – 24/09/2023 Roddy Carritt Trophy ISLAND SAILING CLUB 23/09/2023 West Princessa Double Royal Southampton Yacht Club 23/09/2023 Denise Cartlidge Ladies Race Royal Southern Yacht Club 23/09/2023 Autumn Spithead 1 Portsmouth Sailing Club 24/09/2023 Brunch R5 East Cowes Sailing Club 24/09/2023 Ancient Mariners Race Royal Southern Yacht Club 29/09/2023 – 30/09/2023 JOG Race to Cherbourg JOG 30/09/2023 XOD Autumn Series - Race 1 Hamble River Sailing Club 30/09/2023 – 01/10/2023 Roddy Carritt Trophy ISLAND SAILING CLUB 30/09/2023 Autumn Spithead 2 Portsmouth Sailing Club OCTOBER 01/10/2023 – 14/10/2023 Winter Series Race 1 & 2 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 01/10/2023 Brunch R6 East Cowes Sailing Club 01/10/2023 – 10/12/2023 Cruiser Autumn Series RVYC 06/10/2023 – 08/10/2023 Contessa 32 Nationals Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club/Contessa 32 Association 56 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT EVENTS CALENDAR 07/10/2023 XOD Autumn Series - Race 2 Hamble River Sailing Club AR 07/10/2023 – 08/10/2023 John Lewis Regatta ISLAND SAILING CLUB 07/10/2023 – 08/10/2023 Arrow Trophy (TBC) Royal London Yacht Club 07/10/2023 Autumn Spithead 3 Portsmouth Sailing Club ALEND 07/10/2023 – 08/10/2023 Hamble One Design Championships - Weekend 1 Hamble River Sailing Club 08/10/2023 Hamble Winter Series - Day 1 Hamble River Sailing Club 14/10/2023 XOD Autumn Series - Race 3 Hamble River Sailing Club 14/10/2023 Autumn Solent Double ( 2 Races) Royal Southampton Yacht Club 14/10/2023 – 15/10/2023 Short-handed 4x4 Series II Royal Southern Yacht Club 14/10/2023 Inshore Race 9: Nab Tower Solo Offshore Racing Club 14/10/2023 Autumn Spithead 4 Portsmouth Sailing Club 14/10/2023 – 15/10/2023 Hamble IRC Autumn Championships - Weekend Hamble River Sailing Club SOLENT EVENTS C 15/10/2023 Hamble Winter Series - Day 2 Hamble River Sailing Club 15/10/2023 Winter Series Race 3 & 4 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 21/10/2023 XOD Autumn Series - Race 4 Hamble River Sailing Club 21/10/2023 Autumn Spithead 5 Portsmouth Sailing Club 21/10/2023 – 22/10/2023 Hamble One Design Championships - Weekend 2 Hamble River Sailing Club 22/10/2023 Hamble Winter Series - Day 3 Hamble River Sailing Club 22/10/2023 The Vital Spark Pursuit Race Royal Southern Yacht Club 28/10/2023 XOD Autumn Series - Race 5 Hamble River Sailing Club 28/10/2023 – 29/10/2023 The Academy Trophy Royal Southern Yacht Club 29/10/2023 Hamble Winter Series - Day 4 Hamble River Sailing Club 29/10/2023 Winter Series Race 5 & 6 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 29/10/2023 – 10/12/2023 Frostbite Series RVYC NOVEMBER 05/11/2023 Winter Series Race 7 & 8 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 12/11/2023 Hamble Winter Series - Day 5 Hamble River Sailing Club 19/11/2023 Hamble Winter Series - Day 6 Hamble River Sailing Club 19/11/2023 Charity Pursuit Royal Southampton Yacht Club 26/11/2023 Hamble Winter Series - Day 7 Hamble River Sailing Club DECEMBER 03/12/2023 Hamble Winter Series - Day 8 Hamble River Sailing Club 25/12/2023 Hot Turkey Race Portsmouth Sailing Club 119 106mm x 82mm solent copy.pdf 1 15/01/2020 13:05 C M Boat Insurance made easy Y CM Get a quote in 20 seconds MY On cover in 2 minutes CY Low on-line premiums CMY K Get the App - craftinsure.com/app craftinsure.com 03452 607888 Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority 57 solenthandbook.com
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USEFUL CONTACTS ACTS USEFUL CONT Paul Wyeth HM Coastguard 0203 817 2000 HM Customs National ‘Yachtline’ (24 hour yacht reporting) 0300 123 2012 HM Customs National Advice Service 0300 200 3300 Emergency Services (Coastguard, Police, Ambulance, Fire) 999 Non-Emergency Calls 101 NHS Non-Emergency Service 111 Sea Start 0800 885500 / 01489 557364 The National Coastwatch Institution: Gosport NCI, Portsmouth Harbour Entrance 02392 765194 Lee NCI, Lee-on-Solent beach 02392 556758 Calshot NCI, Radar Tower Calshot Spit 02380 893562 Needles NCI, Lookout Station, The Needles 01983 754231 Blue Funnel Cruises 02380 223278 Brittany Ferries 0330 162 4745 Gosport Ferry 02392 524551 Hamble Ferry 07720 438402 Hovertravel 0345 222 0461 Hythe Ferry 02380 840722 Red Funnel 02380 019192 Solent & Wightline Cruises 01983 564602 Wightlink 0333 999 7333 P&O Ferries 01304 448888 Southampton Airport 0344 481 7777 Bournemouth Airport 01202 364000 Gatwick Airport 0344 892 0322 Heathrow Airport 0844 335 1801 National Express 0371 781 8181 National Rail Enquiries 0345 748 4950 Transport for London 0343 222 1234 Traveline 0871 200 2233 60 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT PORTS & HARBOURS A Solent Handbook wouldn’t be complete without revealing some of the hidden delights to be found in the area and so this section introduces the reader to the wonderful diversity of TS & HARBOURS harbours, ports, and rivers to be found around the Solent. The Solent has many harbours ranging from quaint creeks to some of the busiest ports in the world. Whether you want to have a relaxing SOLENT POR cruise or a challenging race the Solent has got it all. There are plenty of bays and rivers to explore where you can drop your anchor for lunch and maybe take a swim, or if it’s the exhilaration of racing you are after, then why not take part in one of the hundreds of sailing regattas offered here during the season, and in fact over the winter too if you are the hardy type! If you’re after some retail therapy, or fancy a night out, there is something for everyone; the Solent plays host to some of the best restaurants in the UK offering fresh, local produce. We hope you enjoy browsing through our guides to some of the most popular destinations in the Solent - and that your stay here is a memorable one. DISTANCE TABLE Bembridge Hbr 13 Chichester Hbr 17 8 Cowes 2 10 15 Fareham 14 10 12 10 R. Hamble (ent) 6 15 18 6 14 Keyhaven 8 20 25 12 22 13 Langstone Hbr 14 6 5 12 10 18 25 Lymington Hbr 7 8 23 10 20 12 3 21 Newtown 4 14 19 5 16 9 6 17 4 Poole 27 42 49 29 40 32 20 39 22 24 Portsmouth Hbr 12 5 8 10 3 13 18 5 19 12 37 Ryde Hbr 8 4 8 5 6 8 16 7 14 10 35 3 Seaview 11 2 10 9 10 12 19 7 18 15 38 5 3 Southampton 9 18 23 9 16 5 16 21 16 12 35 18 12 14 Wootton 6 5 10 4 9 8 16 10 12 9 32 5 2 10 10 Yarmouth Hbr 7 19 24 9 18 13 3 21 2 2 20 19 13 17 16 12 Ventnor Haven 22 12 18 22 18 23 33 17 28 25 30 15 14 12 25 15 28 Beaulieu R. (ent) Bembridge HbrChichester Hbr Cowes Fareham R. Hamble (ent)Keyhaven Langstone Hbr Lymington Hbr NewtownPoole Portsmouth HbrRyde HbrSeaviewSouthampton WoottonYarmouth Hbr Approximate distances in nautical miles. To be used as a guide only and not for navigation. 61 solenthandbook.com
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BEAULIEU RIVER 50º46’.58N, 01º21’.60W (ENT) The Beaulieu River is centrally located on the Solent, and is one of the most picturesque rivers on the South Coast. Forming part of the Beaulieu Estate, Beaulieu River is one of the few privately owned rivers in the world and is largely unspoilt, both in terms of BEAULIEU RIVERits landscape and as a haven for wildlife. The banks play host to an exceptional variety of habitats with an equally varied display of flora and fauna. Beaulieu Enterprises Ltd When approaching Beaulieu River from the East, keep the lit South Cardinal to starboard off Stone Point and steer to the vicinity of a lit, yellow special buoy close to the bearing to run in on. The bearing to run in on is 324° guided by the transit marks, the front mark is port post No. 2 and the back mark is the Eastern edge of Lepe House. If entering in the dark there is a sector light to guide you into the entrance of the channel. To approach from the west, keep well off the mud banks of Warren Flat and Beaulieu Spit and again steer a course towards the special buoy and transit as above. The Beaulieu Spit dolphin marks the entrance, it is a large port hand tripod. Unless you have a very deep draft on neap tides you will generally be able to enter the river at almost any time, with the minimum depth being just over 2 metres*. It is recommended to avoid the entrance 2 hours either side of LW Springs to ensure that you have enough water to cross the bar which has a depth of 0.9m depth at Chart Datum. If your boat draws 1.5m, (5 feet), you can enter the river 1½ hours after LW Springs. The navigation channel at the mouth of the river is defined with red and green piles. Those that are lit have a flashing sequence of FL.G.4s. Once past the piles you will find there are port and starboard hand buoys to keep you in the channel. These are also lit and have the same light characteristic as the posts. These will guide you up to the marina. Further upstream, branches of willow painted red and green known as ‘withies’ are used. The river benefits from a double tide, with a secondary high water. The flood tide takes 6 hours coming in; then, after a gentle fall, there is a second high tide some 2 hours later followed by a period of slack water for about an hour. Then the ebb sets in, and LW is reached in just 3½ hours. Buckler’s Hard village and its marina are 3.5m upstream from the entrance to Beaulieu River. Set within the heart of the New Forest 64 solenthandbook.com
BEAULIEU RIVER National Park, Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour offers a unique location for short stays and welcomes visiting vessels. The masters of vessels arriving inside the limits of the river are expected to report to the Harbour Master upon arrival, (ch68 BEAULIEU RIVER Beaulieu River radio, or by phone 01590 616200). All commercial vessels and any vessel over 20m in length are required to contact Beaulieu River Radio on channel 68 when approaching the limits of the river. The harbour speed limit is 5 knots from the entrance and for the entire length of the river. Visitors are welcome to enter the marina at any time, day or night. There is increased walk ashore visitor berthing available in the redeveloped marina, with berths available for visiting vessels up to 25m in length. Berths for overnight visitors can be reserved in advance, subject to availability. Alternatively, you can pick up one of our visitor moorings marked with a yellow “V” plate, but please note a dinghy will be required to get ashore. Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour is an unspoilt haven, rich in history and wildlife, ideal as a base for exploring the Solent and the Channel. Situated on the beautiful Beaulieu River, the Yacht Harbour is only 25 minutes from the M27 motorway. Awarded five gold anchors, Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour was awarded Marina of the Year at the prestigious British Yachting Awards 2022, being recognised for providing the warmest welcome and best facilities for visiting sailors. Safe, traditional and friendly, there are a range of berths available on the river and within the marina. Full marina services and facilities are available, including a 40 tonne hoist, open policy boat yard as well as a refurbished shower and toilet block and a launderette. There is also a chandlery, stocking a wide variety of provisions, supplies, hardware, outboards and dinghies, as well as on site marine engineers. A unique location for short stay visitors, overnight berths and permanent moorings, experience tranquillity and stunning natural beauty on the Beaulieu River - where the New Forest meets the Solent. *Depths will vary slightly and are affected by atmospheric pressure. It is always recommended to carry out tidal calculations if you are unsure as to whether you will have enough water when entering the river. Contact: Harbour Master’s Office, Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour, Beaulieu, Hampshire, SO42 7XB. Tel: 01590 616200. VHF Channel 68 Beaulieu River radio. beaulieuriver.co.uk Beaulieu Enterprises Ltd 65 solenthandbook.com
BEMBRIDGE HARBOUR 50º41’.62N, 01º06’.40W + (ENT) Bembridge Harbour lies on the eastern tip of the Isle of Wight, just a short sail from many Solent harbours with Chichester, Langstone, and Portsmouth all within a 10-mile radius. For yachtsmen embarking on a Channel crossing, Bembridge Harbour has the added attraction that it is at least an hour closer to the continent than the mainland marinas at the same end of BEMBRIDGE HARBOURthe Solent. Bembridge Harbour Authority The Harbour is designated a ‘Site of Special Scientific Interest’ in recognition of its significance as a habitat for wildlife. The Harbour’s European importance is confirmed by its status as a ‘Special Protection Area’ and it is designated a ‘wetland of international importance’ under the Ramsar Convention. There is an area of saltmarsh as well as other important habitats such as sand dunes, vegetated shingle, and saline lagoons, the saltmarsh and intertidal mud providing feeding grounds for wintering and migratory waterfowl, and the Island’s only RSPB site edges onto the Harbour. Bembridge is a large, picturesque, sheltered harbour with beautiful beaches, and although the entrance is tidally restricted, once inside its shelter a warm welcome awaits visitors whatever the weather. It’s flanked by the villages of Bembridge and St Helens, home to a variety of pubs, cafes, and eateries offering the best Island produce. The entrance is due south of Portsmouth Harbour and is marked by a tide gauge topped with a yellow cross. As you pass the tide gauge the village of Seaview will be to starboard and St Helens Fort to port. Vessels should leave the tide gauge to port on their approach which will line them up with pairs of channel markers - the first pair being buoys 1 and 2 which are lit - all other buoys are marked with reflective tape. On passing buoys 6a and 7a you will be running parallel to the shore with the Harbour entrance appearing in the distance. On big Spring tides beware of a strong current through into the Harbour. A live-feed electronic tide height gauge, showing the depth of water over the bar, can be found on the Harbour website and is displayed 66 solenthandbook.com
at the Berthing Office, with info updated every 60 seconds. There is VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1 27/01/2023 15:1227/01/2023 15:12 also a video guide. As general guidance, access to the Harbour for a vessel drawing 1.5m is ±3 hours HW Portsmouth, Neaps or Springs. BEMBRIDGE HARBOUR Regular dredging maintains average depths of 2m MLWS along the visitors’ pontoon at the Duver Marina. Visitor berths are booked online via the Harbour website. Once in the Entrance Channel (at approx buoy 10A) visitors should call “Bembridge Harbour” on VHF Ch 80 to receive berthing instructions. Harbour staff are on duty 0800-1800 seven days a week (summer hours). Once inside the Harbour there is a drying beach anchorage on your port side. The Duver Marina is approx half-way down the Harbour to starboard. As well as finger pontoons and alongside berthing for larger vessels, there is also a designated Rally Area for pre-booked rallies of 5 or more boats. A Water Taxi service (VHF Ch 80 Callsign ‘Bembridge Water Taxi” or tel: 01983 872828 ext 2) operates from the Duver pontoon, with various pick up and drop off points (subject to tidal access). There are toilet and shower facilities, and a “Galley Locker” shop within the Berthing Office sells essentials and a range of Island produce. Free WiFi is available. The independently run seasonal Duver Café is open every day from Easter to October, and Steve’s Bar” features Island-made ales, spirits and wine (opening hours vary). Both facilities are outside with seating available and a large marquee for less friendly weather. A lift out and scrub service for visitors with RIBs/powerboats up to 10m (5 tonnes) is available at Bembridge Boat Storage (bembridgeboatstorage.co.uk) and can be arranged through the Harbour or Berthing Office. Undercover and external dry-stack storage also available. Contact: Bembridge Harbour Authority, Harbour Office, The Duver St Helens, Isle of Wight PO33 1YB. Tel: 01983 872828. bembridgeharbour.co.uk or follow on Facebook. Bembridge Harbour Authority 67 solenthandbook.com
CHICHESTER HARBOUR 50º46’.86N, 00º56’.00W (ENT) Chichester Harbour is an ideal water recreation centre with its 11 square miles of water, 17 miles of well marked and lit channels and easy access to the Solent. The sheltered waters are ideal for racing and day sailing and its channels offer secure moorings for cruising vessels. In addition, the harbour is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and of national and international CHICHESTER HARBOURimportance for nature conservation. Paul Adams The low lying entrance to Chichester Harbour is not easily distinguished against the backdrop of the South Downs and is bordered on both sides by extensive drying banks; West Pole, Middle Pole and East Pole Sands, the latter extending more than a mile seaward. A deep-water channel running between these banks to the harbour entrance is interrupted by a bar joining West to Middle Pole and East Pole Sands, this mobile feature varies in position and height and is periodically dredged to maintain a charted depth of 1.5 metres below chart datum. The width of the dredged channel across the Bar is a little less than 200 yards. Vessels approaching the harbour from the west are advised to shape course for West Pole Beacon 50º 45’.45 N, 00º 56’.59 W. On rounding the Beacon aim to pass between Eastoke Buoy and West Winner Beacons leaving the Bar Beacon 50º 46’.023 N, 00º 56’.380 W, close to port. When approaching the harbour from the east, mariners are advised not to cross the 5 metre contour until West Pole Beacon bears 310º T. On reaching the beacon shape a course for the harbour entrance keeping the Bar Beacon close to port. Chichester Bar is normally dredged to approximately 1.5m below chart datum giving a depth of 2m at MLWS. However, through gradual accretion and after severe gales the bottom can vary markedly and it is then prudent to assume a least depth of 0.8 metres below Chart Datum. Mariners should be aware that ebb tides in the entrance to the harbour can attain a rate of up to 6 knots on springs. With a falling tide and strong winds from a southerly sector a dangerous sea may be encountered. In these conditions it is advisable to exercise caution and cross the bar between three hours before and one hour after HW springs. In very strong winds entry should not be attempted. The speed limit throughout the harbour is 8 knots and is strongly enforced. 68 solenthandbook.com
CHICHESTER HARBOUR Up-to-date tide and weather information at the Harbour Entrance is available at chimet.co.uk or from the Harbour Office. The Harbour Patrol maintains a VHF radio watch on Ch 14, Call Sign ‘Chichester Harbour Radio’ or ‘Chichester Harbour Patrol’. The speed limit throughout the harbour is 8 knots. Useful navigation information, including race start times and locations, is published each weekend as an eNewsletter, sign up at conservancy.co.uk to receive a copy. CHICHESTER HARBOUR Itchenor - visitor moorings, fresh water, showers, free pump-out station and maintenance piles available, contact Chichester Harbour Patrol for information. Ferry available weekends and bank holidays all year and daily from mid May to September, call ‘Ferry’ on Ch 08. Emsworth - visitor pontoon, jetty and fresh water available. Ferry operates weekends and bank holidays Easter to September 2hrs either side of HW. Call ’Emsworth Mobile’ on Ch 14 for information or ferry. Bosham - deep water visitor moorings available on request and drying quay for day visits and overnight stays. Fresh water and jet washer to hire. Call ‘Bosham Quay’ on VHF channel 14 (01 April to 30 October) or call 01243 573336. Long-term moorings are available throughout the harbour managed by Chichester Harbour Conservancy. These offer the opportunity to enjoy the best of the beautiful natural environment of Chichester Harbour. Located in some idyllic settings these well maintained and sheltered moorings offer a cost effective way to experience this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Contact: Chichester Harbour Conservancy, Harbour Office, Itchenor, Chichester, PO20 7AW. Tel: 01243 512301 conservancy.co.uk Sparkes Marina, on the south-east tip of Hayling Island, lies within Chichester Harbour – one of Europe’s largest natural harbours, and is accessible at all states of the tide. The area is famous for its birds and marine life and stunning sunsets. The facilities at this 140-berth marina include 24-hour showers and toilets, a laundry room, an office and reception. There is also the ever-popular Drift: Hayling Island bar and restaurant, and Mistral Hayling, a dedicated paddleboard centre. When approaching the marina, enter Chichester Harbour and proceed on the starboard side of the channel until the Hayling Island Sailing Club mast is bearing 240 degrees M (236 degrees T) on the portside. From this position you will see an East Cardinal Mark with tide gauge bearing approximately 290 degrees M (286 degrees T) and a jetty pontoon on the sailing club shore. Alter course to port onto a heading of 281 degrees M (277 degrees T). Adjust your course to pass midway between the cardinal mark and the pontoon. You will now see transit marks consisting of two Day-Glo orange St Andrews Crosses, bearing 281 degrees M (277 degrees T). Adjusting your course to keep the transit in line, proceed down the transit for approximately three cables, leaving the pile mooring to port. As you pass the last pile mooring you will see steel piles with red can top marks on your port bow (South West). Follow these marks, which will lead you into the marina. The approach channel from the Sailing Club to the Marina has been dredged to 2 metres below CD. 69 solenthandbook.com
CHICHESTER HARBOUR Sparkes Marina has 140 berths; max LOA: 15m; fuel (diesel, petrol and marine gas); dry boat sailing for yachts and motorboats; swinging moorings; 24-hour showers and toilets; laundry facilities; restaurant and bar; paddleboard centre; and MDL Wi-Fi. Contact: Sparkes Marina, Wittering Road, Hayling Island, PO11 9SR. CHICHESTER HARBOURVHF Ch 80. Tel: 023 9246 3572. sparkesmarina.co.uk MDL Marinas, Sparkes Marina Accessible at all states of the tide, Northney Marina offers excellent boatyard facilities for boat repairs or maintenance work. There is storage ashore for over 200 boats as well as a 35-ton boat hoist and crane for mast stepping. There is also a modernised slipway, with an access pontoon, giving easy access to the water for trailer sailors – with ample space for car parking and trailer storage. When approaching Northney Marina, enter Chichester Harbour on the top half of the flood. Continue north up Emsworth Channel for 3 miles to Emsworth south cardinal light beacon. Here fork 45° to port up Sweare Deep. After 8 cables turn sharply port around the Northney red beacon. Enter the marina via a short channel dredged 1m; access H24. Northney Marina has 228 berths; max LOA: 24m; fuel (diesel); boat lifting and storage ashore; 35-ton boat hoist; slipway; car parking and trailer storage; boatyard services; yacht brokerage; laundry facilities; café; chandlery; provisions shop; electric vehicle charging; 24/7 self- storage facilities and MDL Wi-Fi. Contact: Northney Marina, Northney Road, Hayling Island, PO11 0NH. VHF Ch 80. Tel: 02392 466321. northneymarina.co.uk MDL Marinas, Northney Marina 70 solenthandbook.com
CHICHESTER HARBOUR Emsworth Yacht Harbour is a friendly, family owned marina within walking distance of the attractive village of Emsworth with its many restaurants and pubs. There are limits on access due to the fixed sill and the marina is accessible ±2 HW. The marina has 220 fully serviced pontoon berths; hard-standing for 200 boats; and a visitor pontoon. There is a 50 tonne travel hoist and Wise W14 boat parker. Also on site are The CHICHESTER HARBOUR Deck Restaurant and a range of boat repair services; slipway and drying grid, diesel and Calor Gas sales, and free Wi-Fi. Contact: Emsworth Yacht Harbour, Thorney Road, Emsworth, Hants, PO10 8BP. Tel: 01243 377727. emsworth-marina.co.uk Emsworth Yacht Harbour Thornham Marina is at the top of Prinsted Bay in Chichester Harbour. Visitors can moor on drying pontoon berths, on pontoon berths within a gated basin, or on swinging moorings. Access to pontoon berths is around ±2 HW, (swinging moorings is 2.5 hours), depending on tide height. To find Thornham Marina enter into Thorney Channel and proceed north, pass Thorney Island SC and church to port. Follow the moorings all the way to the entrance to Prinsted Bay. After entering the bay, follow the channel markers which will then guide you into the deep water pool or pontoon berths. Call Sign ‘Thornham Marina’, VHF Ch 80. There is storage for around 300 vessels; a 12 ton boat hoist; electricity and water; toilets and showers; and car parking. Contact: Thornham Marina, Thornham Lane, Prinsted, Nr. Emsworth, PO10 8DD. Tel: 01243 375335. thornhammarina.com Thornham Marina 71 solenthandbook.com
CHICHESTER HARBOUR Birdham Pool Marina is situated on the south eastern edge of Chichester Harbour, six miles from the entrance, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Opened in 1937, it is one of the oldest marinas in the country that is full of character in an idyllic setting. The marina runs alongside a traditional working shipyard which provides excellent services. CHICHESTER HARBOURBirdham Pool can accommodate up to 289 vessels up to a maximum of 14m x 4.5m x 1.9m. Berthing is mostly between piles, bow or stern to the shore or jetties with 16amp power. The approach channel to Birdham Pool Marina is approximately 9m in width and is marked with starboard posts. Please call on VHF Ch 80, Call Sign ‘Birdham Pool Marina’, or by phone to the lock on 01243 511482 or 07831 466815. Email: [email protected]. Entrance and exit via the lock is available 3 hours before high water, through to 4 hours after high water. Contact: Birdham Pool Waterside & Marina, Birdham, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 7BG. Tel: 01243 512310. Email: [email protected] Birdham Pool Waterside & Marina Chichester Marina is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty situated upstream from Itchenor on the Eastern side of Chichester Harbour. Once inside the harbour, you need to head northeast at East Head, passing through Itchenor Reach and toward Birdham Pool to arrive at the Marina. The channel to the marina is marked by the Chichester Marina starboard pile - Maximum speed 8 knots. When you reach this pile, please call the marina on VHF Ch. 80 for lock and berthing instructions. During busy periods and at certain states of the tide you may be asked to moor on the outer waiting pontoon. The lock allows 24-hour access to the marina with excellent CCTV security provided around the clock. The marina has luxury toilets and showers; a launderette; free Wi-Fi; the Boat House Café overlooking the water; a welcoming yacht club with stunning views across the harbour, car parking; boatyard with lift-out, a fuel berth with pump out facility and a wide variety of marine services. Contact: Premier Chichester Marina, Birdham, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 7EJ. Tel: 01243 512731. Email: [email protected] premiermarinas.com VHF 80 72 solenthandbook.com
CHICHESTER HARBOUR CHICHESTER HARBOUR Premier Marinas, Chichester Marina Haines Boatyard, Itchenor is a small friendly boatyard offering a comprehensive range of services for all types of craft. They are well respected in the marine community in and around Chichester Harbour for their specialist expertise in shipwright work, painting, rigging and engineering. Excellent modern facilities and skilled staff mean that they are able to restore and maintain the Itchenor classic keelboats as well as other craft like Folkboats, yachts, motorboats, RIBs and dinghies to a very high standard. Boats up to 28ft or 5 tonnes can be hauled using the slipway services for repairs and maintenance, including pressure washing and anti-fouling. Haines can offer secure indoor and outdoor storage, which is available throughout the year and moorings in the Itchenor Reach. Contact: Haines Boatyard, Itchenor, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 7AN. Tel: 01243 512228. Email: [email protected] hainesboatyard.com The Hayling Yacht Company is a family- owned business which has generations of experience providing expert boat repairs, osmosis treatments, winter boat storage and marina berths. With so many The Hayling Yacht Company years on the water, they have learned to change with the times, embracing the latest technology and techniques for boat repairs, but keeping some things the same such as pride in their work and a commitment to their customers. Located on the western edge of Chichester Harbour they are perfectly positioned to take advantage of the natural shelter, offering calm marina berths and safe boat storage - with over 15, 000 square feet under cover. Their hard-standing boat storage gives access to both electricity and water points, and soft mud berths offer exceptional value for money. Contact: The Hayling Yacht Co Ltd, Mill Rythe Lane, Hayling Island, Hants, PO11 0QQ. Tel: 02392 463592. haylingyacht.co.uk 73 solenthandbook.com
COWES & RIVER MEDINA 50º46’.08N, 01º17’.95W Cowes is fortunate to enjoy the benefits of its geography and history. Its position at the centre of the Solent, with a harbour that’s easily accessible and a river navigable as far as Newport, has made it the Isle of Wight’s main port as well as a popular destination harbour and events centre for sailing, cruising, and powerboating. COWES & RIVER MEDINA Cowes Harbour, Paul Wyeth Cowes’ history is steeped in yachting tradition. Even before the 1815 founding in London of The Yacht Club, which went on to become the Royal Yacht Squadron, Cowes was a fashionable watering place. The Cowes Regatta, which was based on the annual licensing of the local pilot vessels and races between them, was a popular spectator sport for visitors even before the advent of Cowes Week. When Queen Victoria’s court was at Osborne House the town became famous for yachting and social events. Today, Cowes has evolved to meet the demands of a growing leisure marine audience and tourist visitors. The harbour and river offer easy access and a choice of mooring types, either close to the town or in the more tranquil stretches of the River Medina. In addition to leisure craft, the harbour and river see a large number of commercial movements including Red Funnel car and freight ferries, high-speed Red Jet ferries, and cargo vessels up to 100m and Cruise vessels up to 150m. Cowes Harbour can be entered by day or night and at all states of the tide by vessels with draft up to about 3 metres. Cowes can be approached safely from the north, east, and west. When approaching from the north, care should be taken not to infringe large vessels in the Southampton Precautionary Area. Vessels over 150m in length have a Moving Prohibited Zone that requires smaller craft (< 20m in length) to keep a minimum of 1, 000m ahead and 100m either side. The Southampton Precautionary Area can be avoided completely, when taking passage from Southampton Water and the River Hamble, when height of tide permits, by passing to the east of the Bramble Bank and entering Cowes via the Eastern Channel. If approaching from the east, pass 300m north of Old Castle Point leaving the Shrape Beacon to port. Small vessels up to 20m in length may use the Eastern Channel. The tide gauge on the Shrape Beacon will indicate if the dredged Eastern Channel is safe to use (tide height + 2.25m); if not, head for Egypt Point to the west, leaving any small craft moorings and the Cowes Breakwater to port before entering the Inner Fairway north of the Royal Yacht Squadron. 74 solenthandbook.com
Vessels entering the Inner Fairway from the Eastern Channel or marinas should do so with caution and give way to any vessel VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1 27/01/2023 15:1227/01/2023 15:12 already within the Inner Fairway. Before starting any manoeuvre to turn across the vessel traffic or enter any marina always give close COWES & RIVER MEDINA attention to all other vessels in the vicinity, especially those astern. If approaching from the west, stay 125m from the shore to avoid rocks along The Green. Vessels need to keep a close lookout for unlit mooring buoys inside the large Gurnard north cardinal buoy and watch out for yachts starting and finishing races off the harbour entrance. The Cowes Outer Fairway extends 500m north of Nos. 1 and 2 buoys. All vessels must comply with Rule 9 of the Collision Regulations: Navigation in Narrow Channels. Vessels should enter and leave the Inner Harbour between the green No. 1 and red No. 2 fairway buoys. A sailing vessel fitted with an auxiliary engine must proceed with the engine running and ready for immediate use in the Inner Harbour. Avoid entering the moorings either side of the channel or the Shrape Watersports Area to the east of the Shrape Breakwater. The Cowes Breakwater is marked with five GPS-synchronised yellow lights spaced equidistant along the breakwater crest, displaying flash characteristic Fl.Y.2.5s. Stay at least 30m from the breakwater crest as the rock-armoured structure extends 25m to the north and south. The western end, on the Inner Fairway extremity, is marked by a red channel mark Fl.R.2s and the eastern end by a green starboard channel mark Fl.Y.5s. Do not cut inside between these channel marks and the ends of the breakwater; there is limited clearance and obstructions. The Cowes Breakwater is private property. Landing is strictly prohibited and an offence under the Cowes General Directions. Tidal flows in the deeper water of the Solent can be stronger than in the approaches to Cowes Harbour and may even run in the opposite direction to that between Nos. 1 and 2 buoys. Tides in the approaches to Cowes can run up to 3 knots. These strong tidal streams have a significant effect on the manoeuvrability of commercial shipping and ferries. Vessels under 20m, sailing vessels and fishing vessels must give way to large vessels that can only safely navigate within the Cowes Harbour Outer and Inner Fairways. Just off Nos. 1 and 2 buoys a westerly-going ebb tide runs between HW-2.5hrs and HW+3hrs with maximum rates (up to 2.5 knots on spring tides) around 1 hour after HW. The weaker easterly-going flood tide runs from HW+5hrs to HW-3hrs with rates of up to 1.5 knots on spring tides. When passing west of the Cowes Breakwater and up to No. 2A buoy you may enter a tidal shadow with little movement. 75 solenthandbook.com
COWES & RIVER MEDINA COWES & RIVER MEDINA Cowes Harbour, Paul Wyeth Between No. 2A buoy and No. 4A beacon from HW-2.5hrs to HW, vessels may experience a cross-current of up to 2 knots at spring tides, which has a tendency to set vessels down towards the western shore. This cross-current splits into two separate flows on the western side of the Inner Fairway (between the Island Sailing Club and the Red Jet terminal) with a current of up to 1.5 knots in either direction. Small craft transiting between No. 2A buoy and No. 4A beacon should be prepared to alter their heading so as not to be set westwards across the fairway and should avoid impeding the safe passage of commercial shipping and ferries. At the Chain Ferry, the flood tide can reach 2.5 knots between HW-2.5hrs and HW at spring tides. The ebb tide can reach 4 knots between LW-3hrs and LW at spring tides. Passage to Newport, 2 nautical miles south of the Folly, can generally only take place about 2 hours either side of high tide. Tide gauges are in place on the Shrape Beacon, at Watch House Slip by the Island Sailing Club at Cowes Town Quay, on the 4A beacon at the west end of the Eastern Channel, and at the north end of Medina Wharf opposite East Cowes Marina. There are frequent ferry movements in the harbour and its approaches. Large vessels, including Red Jet passenger ferries and Red Funnel vehicle and freight ferries, when entering or leaving the harbour between HW-2.5hrs and HW, may be required to remain towards the eastern side of the fairway between No. 2A buoy and the Eastern Channel beacon to avoid being set down onto the western shore. Small craft should be prepared to alter their heading so as not to be set across the fairway when transiting this area and avoid impeding the safe passage of commercial shipping and ferries. Vessels should not overtake on the starboard side of inbound Red Jets approaching their berth at Town Quay, Cowes. Inbound Red Jets sound one short blast and swing to starboard towards the terminal ejecting a substantial wash from their propulsion units. Red Jets also sound one short blast on departure. When joining the Inner Fairway from the Eastern Channel, always give way to vessels already navigating in the Inner Fairway, especially large ships. Two Inner Fairway Precautionary Areas are marked on Chart 2793 for “Red Jet Turning and Eastern Channel Traffic Convergence Area” and “Red Funnel Vehicle and Freight Ferry Berthing Area”. Mariners are advised to navigate with particular caution and keep a good lookout. The speed limit in the Inner Harbour at Cowes is 6 knots through the water. All craft must comply with the speed limit and wash 76 solenthandbook.com
COWES & RIVER MEDINA regulations in Cowes Harbour. The Inner Harbour 6 knot speed limit applies in the Cowes Harbour jurisdiction and within 100m of the Mean High Water Mark west and east of the harbour entrance as far as Egypt Point and Old Castle Point. Navigate with care and caution and keep a good lookout for other vessels and swimmers in the water off the beach at Prince’s Green in Cowes. Do not create wash in the Inner Harbour and within 100m of the shore from Egypt Point COWES & RIVER MEDINA to Old Castle Point. The Chain Ferry (Floating Bridge) carries vehicles, bicycles and foot passengers between Cowes and East Cowes, seven days a week, all year round. The Chain Ferry runs a full service with the support of a “pushing vessel” during spring ebb tides. All vessels are to give way to the Chain Ferry apart from those stated in Cowes General Direction 6.5. Vessels requiring an unimpeded passage must establish early contact (call sign ‘Cowes Chain Ferry’) and agree on VHF Channel 69 which side the ferry will hold for your passage. The Chain Ferry is situated on a blind bend at the narrowest stretch of the river. Navigate with caution when approaching the ferry, particularly with a following tide. The tidal flow generally accelerates as you approach the ferry due to the river narrowing, which may set you down towards the ferry quicker than you initially anticipated. Give way in good time. During all tides, especially spring tides, there are strong currents associated in this narrow part of the river. The ebb flows are usually more pronounced than the flood. The ebb tide is accentuated towards the eastern side of the river where the spring ebb may be in excess of 4 knots and cause the unwary to be set down upon the eastern bank, especially near Trinity Wharf and the Red Funnel ferry terminal in East Cowes. Depending on the tide and position of the Chain Ferry in the river, the depth of navigable water above the level of the chains does vary, being deepest in the centre of the fairway and steadily decreasing towards the banks of the River Medina and at the bow of the ferry. With the Chain Ferry berthed on either the Cowes or East Cowes side, the depth of navigable water above the chains is a minimum of 1.5m below chart datum in the centre of the fairway. For further information contact the Ferry Manager on 01983 293041. Cowes owes much of its popularity to its location in the centre of the Solent and its position midway between Weymouth (46 nautical miles) and Brighton (53 nautical miles), in the centre of the most popular sailing area in the country. As a result, during the summer season there are lots of recreational craft moored on buoys, pontoons, and pile moorings within Cowes Harbour and along the River Medina. A large number of yacht races start and/or finish in Cowes, and the harbour is also popular with visiting cruisers and powerboaters. The main sailing season runs from April to October with the busiest period during July and August. Cowes Week, which is held in the first half of August, sees the approaches to Cowes Harbour and the fairway become extremely crowded. To contact the Cowes Harbour Master afloat call on VHF Ch 69 Call Sign ‘HM1’ or ‘Cowes Harbour Radio’ for the Harbour Master’s Office. Contact: Harbour Office, Town Quay, Cowes, PO31 7AS. Tel: 01983 293952. Email: [email protected] cowesharbourcommission.co.uk 77 solenthandbook.com
COWES & RIVER MEDINA Scrubbing berths can be found at Town Quay next to the Harbour Office, or a lift and scrub can be arranged through one of the marinas or boatyards. Petrol and red diesel are available from the deep water Cowes Harbour Services Fuels berth, which supplies marine fuels, gas and lubricating oils to the commercial and leisure users in the Solent; Lallow’s Boatyard 50m south of Cowes Yacht Haven on the COWES & RIVER MEDINAwestern side of the fairway also sells diesel and petrol however depth is limited to 1 metre below chart datum. Fresh water is available at Trinity Landing and Town Quay. There are several public landing places and slipways. In Cowes there is Trinity Landing (the fairway side of the pontoons can be used for pick up and drop off only, whilst the inside face is available for berthing), the Whitegates pontoon for tenders, a slipway between Thetis Wharf and Shepards Marina, Town Quay adjacent to the Red Jet terminal (up to 9m LOA), the Sun Slip off the High Street, the Watch House slip at the end of Watch House Lane at the south end of The Parade, and at Egypt Point there is a slipway east of the Point. Also, in East Cowes at Bells landing (tidal steps) just north of the Union Flag building, the White Hart slip south of the Red Funnel ferry terminal, the Grid Iron pontoon, immediately north of the Chain Ferry for landing and pickup only, and the Folly slip further up the River Medina. There is direct access from Town Quay (next to the Red Jet terminal) to the High Street. The pontoon at Trinity Landing also offers walk ashore access. Whitegates visitor pontoons are situated on both sides of the main fairway, south of the Chain Ferry. In addition, from May to October M Row, off The Green, provides heavy-duty deepwater moorings, max LOA 25m. Contact ‘HM1’ on VHF Ch 69 for mooring at Trinity Landing and any of the mooring buoys. Cowes Yacht Haven is located in the heart of Cowes, giving visitors easy access to a vibrant high street full of independent pubs, restaurants and shops. The marina is accessible at all states of the tide and has 260 fully serviced berths, max LOA 50m. The marina shower and toilet facilities were upgraded in January 2023. The customer laundry is available for use 24 hours a day. Onsite in the boatyard there is a 50 ton hoist, 25 ton boat mover and 22 ton 28 metre reach mobile crane, ready to carry out all your lifting requirements, there’s Wi-Fi throughout the site, winter berthing, winter storage ashore, under cover storage, dry sailing services, onsite engineers, electricians and boat repairers all close at hand. The Pontoon View Bar and Food Outlet is situated at the top of the South Basin ramp is available to all and open daily during the summer season. The onsite Events Centre is an ideal waterside location that can host a wide range of events, with room to seat up to 400 guests with an additional 3000 sq m of outdoor exhibition space. Call the office to book any of our services. Call VHF 80 ‘Cowes Yacht Haven’ for berthing instructions. Contact: Cowes Yacht Haven, Vectis Yard, High Street, Cowes PO31 7BD. Tel: 01983 299975. Email: [email protected] cowesyachthaven.com 78 solenthandbook.com
Cowes Harbour Shepards Marina is one of the harbour’s main marina facilities offering a full range of services and amenities suitable for yacht racing events, rallies, and catering also to the cruising sailor and powerboater. The family-friendly marina has COWES & RIVER MEDINA capacity for 130 visiting boats, 40 resident berth holders, and specialises in providing dry sailing packages for day class yachts, RIBs, motorboats and trailered keelboats. The Sugar Store Events Centre at the marina benefits from a prime waterfront location. The venue offers contemporary facilities for up to 400 people, with a bar and stage, and regatta/media facilities. Marina services include boat lifting to 6 tonnes, dry sailing, annual moorings, visitor berthing, winter berths and storage, free Wi-Fi, electricity and water, inclusive showers, a free pump out and waste facilities, sitewide CCTV, a restaurant, sail maker, and sailing school. Berths can be booked in advance; at peak times in season rafting up may be necessary. Rallies, clubs and regattas (of six boats and over) are offered discounts on the standard visitor rates. Sailing schools receive discounted berthing Sunday to Thursday. Discounts are not applicable during major events. Ask at the marina office for more details. Contact: Shepards Marina; Medina Road, Cowes, PO31 7HT. Tel: 01983 297821. Email: [email protected] cowesharbourshepardsmarina.co.uk VHF Ch80 Call Sign ‘Shepards Marina’. Shepards Marina, Ariyan Alimadadi 79 solenthandbook.com
COWES & RIVER MEDINA East Cowes Marina is situated in a beautifully sheltered location on the eastern bank of the Medina River, just upstream of the Chain Ferry linking Cowes with East Cowes. VHF 80 Call Sign ‘East Cowes Marina’. The marina provides 240 annual berths and up to 100 visitors’ berths. Visitor berths can be booked in advance, and are all ‘walk-ashore’ with free electricity and fresh water. Shore side COWES & RIVER MEDINAfacilities include high quality washrooms and showers, a laundry room, car parking, yacht stores and our dedicated boat brokerage, boatpoint. Free Wi-Fi is available across the marina. Next to the marina office the ever popular ‘Lifeboat’ pub with its large, sunny decking area overlooking the river, serves delicious food all day, every day. The marina is a great base for all the Isle of Wight’s major events, including the Round the Island Race, Cowes Week, and the music festivals. East Cowes town has a Waitrose and Co-op, a post office, cash machine, lovely restaurants, cafes and takeaways. There are beautiful river walks, and Osborne House and the Classic Boat Museum are just a few minutes stroll away. Cowes is easily accessible by Chain Ferry or the friendly and efficient Water Taxi service operating from the marina. The marina welcomes rallies and a marquee and BBQ area are available for hire. Contact: East Cowes Marina, Britannia Way, East Cowes, PO32 6UB. Tel: 01983 293983. Email: [email protected] boatfolk. co.uk/east-cowes-marina Boatfolk East Cowes Marina Folly Inn - If you wish to travel from East Cowes or Cowes to the Folly Inn, the Folly Waterbus is available on VHF Ch 77 or tel. 07974 864627.There are three visitor pontoons up the Medina River near the Folly Inn, one is a walk ashore and the other two are in mid-river. All are run by the Folly Berthing Master. The walk ashore pontoon has water and electricity, showers and toilets are accessible 24 hours a day at the Folly Inn. There is also a scrubbing berth available nearby. Call on VHF Ch 72 Call Sign ‘Folly Launch’ as you are passing port hand marker No. 10 for berthing instructions. Contact: Folly Moorings, River Medina, Isle of Wight. Tel: 07884 400046. follymoorings.co.uk Island Harbour – Set in one of the most picturesque riverside locations, in an area of outstanding natural beauty, Island Harbour is situated just over a mile south of East Cowes. This peaceful friendly 80 solenthandbook.com
COWES & RIVER MEDINA countryside marina is ideally suited to families with children and dogs. There are over 200 walk ashore finger berths, as well as many amenities including a fully refurbished restaurant, with a superb children’s play area. COWES & RIVER MEDINA There are also showers, a laundry room, car parking, free Wi-Fi, a well-stocked chandlery, winter hard standing, on site boat repairers, a 50 ton travel hoist Island Harbour and slipway. Call Sign ‘Island Harbour’ on VHF CH80. Notify the Marina of your arrival when entering the Folly Reach. To enter Island Harbour, continue up the main channel until you reach the red lane markers, then make your turn as directed by the duty Lock Keeper. There is a ‘waiting pontoon’ opposite the lane markers which can be used for a short stay fee. Access is approximately 4 hours either side of HW depending on your draft, although there is a 2.2 metre draught restriction into the marina over the lock gates’ sill. Marina staff are always on hand to help you through the lock, as well as to assist you onto your berth in inclement weather. Contact: Island Harbour, Mill Lane, Binfield, Newport, PO30 2LA. Tel: 01983 539994. island-harbour.co.uk 81 solenthandbook.com
COWES & RIVER MEDINA Newport Harbour is a small leisure harbour situated at the navigable head of the River Medina, some 5 miles south from the port of Cowes. Newport harbour is a 5-minute walk to the centre of Newport. There are a broad range of facilities and activities, including swimming pool, leisure centre, community theatre, cinema, hotel, supermarkets and pubs and restaurants available nearby. COWES & RIVER MEDINAFurthermore, due to its central location it makes an ideal destination to explore the Island by the cycle and footpaths. The harbour is also within walking distance of readily available buses that service the whole Island. The visitor pontoons are walk ashore, additionally there is a quay wall for fin keel vessels. At both of these locations, there is power and water available. Throughout the year the quay is used by many events these include food markets, car shows, festivals and various marine events. To reach Newport Harbour from Cowes, a beacon at the Folly displays a rapid flashing green light. This is located 1.5 cables south of the Folly Inn Point at the end of the row of yacht moorings. Moving south, two pairs of fixed green lights are located on the west bank, at the northern and southern ends of the Cement Mills site. At Dodnor, a further pair of fixed green lights mark the end of a small jetty extending from the west bank. Shallow points upstream are marked by red buoys on the port side and green buoys on the starboard. On the east bank, the approach to Newport Harbour is identified by large white beacons with pairs of horizontal red lights showing at night. When lined up, these beacons bear a course of 192º T and show the approach channel to the harbour. HW Spring tides give an average 2.5m depth in the approach channel and at the visitors’ pontoons, but this may increase depending on weather conditions. The Neap high tide depth is 1.8m. The harbour dries out at LW, around 5 hours after HW, revealing a firm level bottom. Newport Harbour has basic showers and toilets, water and electricity, waste facilities and slipways. Contact: Newport Harbour Office, Newport Quay, Newport, PO30 2ED. Tel: 01983 823885. Email: [email protected] iwight.com Visit Isle of Wight 82 solenthandbook.com
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FAREHAM FAREHAM CHANNEL: 50º50’.40N, 01º10’.40W (ENT) Fareham provides a unique opportunity to explore a rich heritage of both maritime and national history, peaceful woodland walks, AREHAMconservation areas, plus an attractive safe coastline. F WicorMarine Yacht Haven, Scott Waddington North of the marinas on your port side as you enter Portsmouth Harbour, and the docks on your starboard side, is Fareham Lake. Further north are Bomb Ketch Lake and Spider Lake on your starboard side, then a couple of southerly cardinal marks which need to be left to starboard. From now on the channel is marked by piles. Bedenham Pier, on your port side, should not be approached closer than 12m. The channel is lit as far as Foxbury Point. Anyone planning to push on up to Fareham must take note of the overhead electricity cables, which cross the channel from Cams Hall Golf Course across to Fareham Reach, and only have a safe clearance of 16m at M ean High Water Springs. Close to Fareham depths rapidly shallow out in the channel. WicorMarine Yacht Haven situated to the north of Bedenham Pier, and only a half-hour from the harbour entrance, is a family owned and operated marina offering a variety of deep water, walk- ashore or mid-river pontoons, swinging moorings, and storage ashore, as well as competitive rates for a mid-season scrub and short-term storage. It boasts the wonderful licensed café, SALT, a well-stocked chandlery and can offer kayak hire and luxury off grid accommodation. A number of marine trades are on site to deal with repairs and maintenance. Visitors are welcome. Contact: WicorMarine Yacht Haven, Cranleigh Road, Portchester, Fareham, PO16 9DR. Tel: 01329 237112. Email: [email protected] wicormarine.co.uk Portsmouth Marine Engineering – Continuing onwards from WicorMarine Yacht Haven, and after the sailing club you will pass, on your port side, a yard run by Portsmouth Marine Engineering with around 130 pontoon berths, some with electricity. Shower and toilet facilities are available. They can offer temporary visitors’ berths subject to availability. There is limited storage in the yard for smaller craft. Contact: Portsmouth Marine Engineering (VRS Holdings Ltd), Lower Quay, Fareham, PO16 0RJ. Tel: 01329 232854. Email: [email protected] 84 solenthandbook.com
KEYHAVEN 50º42’.85N, 01º33’.26W (ENT) Keyhaven is an attractive harbour at the western tip of the Solent VEN lying within an area of unspoilt Hampshire coast. The harbour is shielded by the massive shingle bar that leads to the famous KEYHA Hurst Castle situated at its strategic position, guarding the western approaches to the Solent and originally built by Henry VIII. New Forest District Council Keyhaven has many qualities ranging from the extent of sheltered water, which makes it so suitable for teaching youngsters sailing and canoeing, to the great wealth of nature conservation and landscape interest. To approach Keyhaven from the west, enter the Solent by Hurst Point and beware of The Trap if coming in via the north channel. Be aware of strong tidal cross streams. The entrance is approximately 0.5m north-northwest of Hurst Point. There are two unlit buoys, one red and one green near the entrance at North Point. The depth between these buoys is virtually at chart datum so whatever height of tide is shown at that time is how much water there is. Normally, entry is restricted to 2 hours each side of HW at Springs although there is a considerable stand on springs Black transit posts line up at a bearing of 308º. Proceed through the entrance lateral marks until a red lit buoy Fl(3)R.9s is abeam on your port side. Enter the river around this buoy. Note the first of many starboard hand laterals for the channel. When entering from the east, and when Port Albert is abeam, turn to starboard and head towards the red and green buoys. Then follow the directions above. It is not advisable to attempt entering Keyhaven in strong easterly winds. There is a 4 knot speed limit once inside the River. Anchorage is close to the spit on your port side. The deepest water is always where the mooring buoys are so stay close to the bows of the moored vessels. Some mooring buoys may be set aside specifically for visitors, they will have yellow pick up buoys marked ‘visitor’. Visitors are also welcome to use an empty buoy, which has no tender attached, but please attach your own lines to the mooring shackle and contact the River Warden on VHF 37/ M1 or P1 or phone 01590 645695. Charges for both mooring and anchoring apply. The West Solent Boat Builders yard is situated immediately behind the quay providing a full range of boatyard facilities, including cranage. Keyhaven yacht club welcomes visiting yachtsman, tenders can be tied up to their pontoon. Contact: Keyhaven River Warden, The Observation Tower, Keyhaven Quay, Keyhaven, SO41 0TR. Tel: 01590 645695. newforest.gov.uk 85 solenthandbook.com
LANGSTONE HARBOUR 0º47’.01N, 01º01’.60W + (ENT) Langstone Harbour lies on Hampshire’s southeast coast, a large tidal bay between Portsmouth Harbour to the west and Chichester Harbour to the east. Commercial shipping, fishing, and recreational boating have been well established in the peaceful, sheltered waters of the harbour for many years. LANGSTONE HARBOUR Langstone Harbour Board There is abundant wildlife in Langstone Harbour which remains an area of real wilderness alongside the major city of Portsmouth. Sailors, boaters and other water sports enthusiasts share the harbour with the resident wildlife, and providing a little consideration is shown, all the different uses can coexist in harmony. Langstone Harbour contains a number of nesting islands and landing is not allowed. Visitors should avoid trampling the mud and saltmarsh plants to ensure their survival into the future. Langstone Harbour is a shallow, natural harbour with extensive mudflats which are exposed during low tide. The whole harbour is one of Hampshire’s several ‘Sites of Special Scientific Interest’ (SSSI) with international status. Together with neighbouring Chichester Harbour, it is a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, and part of the Solent European Marine Site. The approach to Langstone Harbour is easy in most weather conditions, but best from High Water -3 to +1 hour. The entrance channel lies between the East and West Winner banks. Some protection may be offered by the East Winner bank, which dries at low water. With the Fairway beacon, approximately 1 mile to the south of the harbour entrance, in line with a conspicuous chimney, a course of 344º will pass between the southern extremity of the East Winner shoal and the Langstone Bar. From the Fairway beacon the course to the harbour entrance is 352º. Allowance should be made for a west-going tide after HW-3h. The entrance itself deepens and favours the west side. Inbound vessels of up to 85 metres length may be encountered in the harbour approaches between HW-2h and HW-1h. These vessels are constrained by their draught and should be given a wide berth. The harbour speed limit is 10 knots and because of the environmental sensitivity of the area’s wildlife, there are also restrictions on certain activities. Chichester Harbour is accessible under the Hayling road bridge for vessels of low air draught at certain states of the tide. 86 solenthandbook.com
LANGSTONE HARBOUR Two visitor moorings (May–Sept) have been established to the north of the mulberry harbour in approximate position 50º 48.1N 001º 01.5W. A third visitor mooring has been established in Sinah Lake. Vessels must not be left unattended on these moorings. All vessels using Langstone Harbour are obliged to pay harbour dues; this includes vessels visiting Southsea Marina. LANGSTONE HARBOUR All vessels on the water must display their daily or annual plaque. Fuel, water, and waste reception facilities are available at the Hayling pontoon. Harbour Office call up is VHF Ch 68/16; the working frequency is Ch 68. In season the Harbour Office is open 0900-1700. There are three public slipways in Langstone Harbour; the Ferry Point slipway, Hayling Island; Eastney slipway, Portsmouth; and the Broadmarsh slipway, Havant. Contact: Langstone Harbour Board, Harbour Office, Ferry Road, Hayling Island, PO11 0DG. Tel: 02392 463419. Email: [email protected] langstoneharbour.org.uk Southsea Marina is a small friendly marina set in Langstone Harbour. Contact the marina on VHF Ch. 80 call sign ‘Southsea Marina’ when approaching Southsea Marina channel to be given berthing instructions. The speed limit in the marina channel is 5 knots. Southsea Marina has a tidal gate that opens +/- 3 hours either side of high water and, when closed there is a waiting pontoon. The tides for Southsea Marina and the times of the tidal gate opening and closing are available to download at premiermarinas.com/southsea. Southsea Marina offers luxury facilities, a launderette, an on-site bar and restaurant, 24-hour diesel and petrol and a fully serviced boatyard. The marina also has an active fishing club, free Wi-Fi, electricity and water on the pontoons and bottled gas. A convenience store and a cashpoint are 10 minutes’ walk away. Contact: Premier Southsea Marina, Fort Cumberland Road, Portsmouth, PO4 9RJ. Tel: 02392 822719. Email: [email protected] premiermarinas.com VHF 80 Premier Marinas, Southsea Marina 87 solenthandbook.com
LYMINGTON HARBOUR 50º45’.10N, 01º31’.40W (ENT) Lymington Harbour is located within an attractive estuary on the Hampshire coast at the western end of the Solent. The estuary is 2 miles long with the entrance channel lying between salt marshes. It is shared by yachtsmen, fishermen, and the Isle of Wight ferry. YMINGTON HARBOUR L Paul Graves - Vertigo Aerial Photography Lymington River is well sheltered and access is available at all states of tide making it a popular destination for visiting yachtsmen. The speed limit is 6 knots with an advisory of 4 knots upstream of the wave screens near the entrance to the Lymington Yacht Haven. There is a double High Water at Springs which gives a stand of 3 hours. At Neaps there is a stand of 2 hours. The tidal range at Springs is 3.1m and at Neaps 1.5m. On approach the first thing you see is the yacht club starting platform with a distant backdrop of masts in the Yacht Haven marina. Leave the platform well to starboard. Jack in the Basket is a single red pile with a basket top-mark to the southwest of the entrance. Water depth in much of the marked channel is in excess of -2.0m below chart datum. However, on the marked channel margins the depth of water is shallower in some locations. Please give way to the Wightlink ferries. At night, the main channel piles are lit, green to starboard and red to port – see a chart for flashing characteristics. Leading lights for entering the river are fixed red on 319°T. In Short Reach (as the river bends to the right) there are 2 red and white transit posts lit by fixed white directional lights to the west of the river at the south end and 2 black and white posts similarly lit on the east side of the Reach at the north end. These are to assist the ferries to line up and pass in the river. Either side of the marked navigation channel in Short Reach are rock breakwaters. The end of the eastern breakwater that is nearest the navigation channel is marked at night by a beacon displaying 2 fixed green lights vertically disposed. The end of the western breakwater that is nearest the navigation channel is marked at night by 2 fixed red lights vertically disposed. The extent of both breakwater underwater footprints is marked by yellow special marks mounted on vertical posts – keep clear. The wave screens mark the beginning of the inner harbour. Beyond these you pass to port in quick succession the entrance to the Yacht 88 solenthandbook.com
LYMINGTON HARBOUR Haven marinas. Dan Bran visitors’ pontoon, the Harbour Master’s pontoon and the Harbour Office, public slipway, the 2 yacht clubs and Berthon Lymington Marina which faces the ferry terminal on the opposite bank. Above the ferry terminal the channel narrows and turns to port between 2 lines of piles forming moorings. This part of the channel YMINGTON HARBOUR L has a maintained depth of 1.7m below chart datum up to the Town Quay where there is a walk ashore pontoon and fore and aft moorings for visiting craft, just 2 minutes’ walk from the Town Centre. Lymington Harbour Commission Visitor Berths & Facilities The Town Quay pontoon has 46 walk ashore berths (for boats up to 12m) with power, water and free Wi-Fi. Berths include 26 finger berths and 20 alongside / rafted berths for boats up to 12m. During the summer season the majority of berths can be booked in advance through the Harbour office or online. A small number of rafting berths are available on a first come first served basis. Fore and aft buoys are also available on a first come, first served basis. The Dan Bran pontoon is a separate bookable visitor walk ashore pontoon that can accommodate boats up to 26m. The pontoon has electricity, water and free Wi-Fi and can accommodate rallies of up to 50 (10m) boats moored together. There are also 6 bookable Only a step away... Beautiful Georgian Town New Forest Activities Fantastic Dining Experiences Things To See & Do Charming Harbour with First Class Mooring Facilities NEW IN 2022 refurbished shower & washroom facilities at Town Quay Find out more: www.lymingtonharbour.co.uk Let’s get social [email protected] 01590 672014 89 solenthandbook.com
LYMINGTON HARBOUR berths for smaller boats up to 8m in length on the inside of the Harbour Master’s Pontoon. Both pontoons are located adjacent to the Royal Lymington Yacht Club. During the winter season, visitor berth number are limited. YMINGTON HARBOURNewly refurbished free washrooms and showers are provided L adjacent to the visitors’ moorings on the Town Quay. Visitors to the Dan Bran pontoon can use the washroom and shower facilities at the adjacent Lymington Town Sailing Club. Three scrubbing grids are available immediately north of the Royal Lymington Yacht Club. Reservations and payment must be made through the Harbour office first. There is a public slipway from the Bath Road car park; a charge is made for launching which must be paid in advance. Please pay using the QR code displayed on the slipway, via the Lymington Harbour website, or at the nearby Harbour Office. Public pontoons for landing can be found at the Town Quay and off the car park in Bath Road. Boats must not be left unattended in the yellow hatched emergency area on the Harbour Master pontoon. Contact: Lymington Harbour Commissioners, Harbour Office, Bath Road, Lymington SO41 3SE. Tel: 01590 672014. VHF Ch 66 (office hours). lymingtonharbour.co.uk Both marinas at Lymington may be contacted on VHF Ch 80 for berth availability. Lymington Harbour Commissioners Lymington Yacht Haven is the first marina that comes into sight as you make your way up the Lymington River. The Yacht Haven offers 24/7 service, on-the-water fuel, luxury showers, complimentary Wi- Fi, and a stunning bar and restaurant with panoramic views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. Lymington Yacht Haven boasts a comprehensive range of marine services on-site, including full hoists and wash off facilities, engine servicing and repairs, rigging specialists, and a well-stocked chandlery. Out-of-hours haul outs are available in emergencies. Contact: Lymington Yacht Haven, Kings Saltern Road, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41 3QD. Tel: 01590 677071. yachthavens.com 90 solenthandbook.com
LYMINGTON HARBOUR YMINGTON HARBOUR L Lymington Yacht Haven Berthon Lymington Marina is located on the western bank of Lymington River and a quiet 10 minute stroll into the beautiful Georgian town where cafes, restaurants and local shops can be found. A 10 minute motor from the open waters of the Solent and one of the longest established marinas in the UK, Lymington Marina offers 300 deep water, well-protected berths for yachts up to 45m (150ft) LOA. Full marina facilities are available, including acclaimed luxury washrooms with under floor and shower seat heating, and a concierge service from Berthon’s friendly Dockmasters. The onsite boatyard caters for all aspects of boat maintenance from engineering, to painting in state of the art purpose built sheds. Whether just visiting or an annual berth, you will be sure to receive the warmest of welcomes. Contact: Lymington Marina Berthon, The Shipyard, Bath Road, Lymington, Hampshire, SO413YL. Tel: 01590 673312. Email: [email protected] berthon.co.uk Berthon Lyminton Marina 91 solenthandbook.com
NEWTOWN HARBOUR 50º43’.45N, 01º24’.66W (ENT) Newtown Harbour, on the Isle of Wight, lies to the west of Newport and east of Yarmouth. Newtown is a National Nature Reserve administered by the National Trust, and is a fragile area for wildlife and a low key, quiet, and unspoilt location. NEWTOWN HARBOUR Island Visions, Jamie Russell The winding estuary at Newtown has provided a sheltered harbour for boats over many centuries. It is thought to have once been capable of accommodating much larger ships than the pleasure craft which use it today. The silting up of the channels led to the decline of Newtown as the harbour became difficult to navigate. When approaching Newtown from either east or west, vessels should keep to the north of the west cardinal fairway buoy. Upon approaching the buoy, keep to the west of the buoy and then proceed inbound keeping the leading marks in alignment. The minimum draft in the entrance at Low Water Springs is approximately 2m, therefore boats can enter Newtown River at Low Water. However, vessels should navigate with caution at this time. Prudence and good seamanship should suggest arrival on a rising tide! The leading marks are on a bearing of 130°. The speed limit is a maximum of 5 knots. If a vessel, such as a fully loaded RIB, is creating excessive wash at 5 knots then speed should be reduced further. Depths vary throughout the estuary. Anchoring is free of charge, however visitors are encouraged to make a voluntary donation to the National Trust which maintains this beautiful location. There are visitor moorings in the estuary, charges apply, and the Harbour Master can be contacted by phone on 01983 531424, but not VHF. Water is available on the landward end of the footbridge at Newtown Quay; waste facilities at Shalfeet Quay. There is a landing place at Shalfleet Quay which is the main point of access to reach the New Inn. There is a National Trust visitor point at the Newtown Nature Reserve and the nearest toilet is at the Visitor Point in the National Trust car park in Newtown village near the Old Town Hall. Refreshment facilities are in nearby villages. A free local information leafet can be obtained from the Harbour Master. Contact: Newtown Harbour Master. Tel: 01983 531424. Extracts from ‘Discovering Newtown’ are reproduced with the permission of the National Trust. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk to find out more. 92 solenthandbook.com VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1 27/01/2023 15:1227/01/2023 15:12
POOLE HARBOUR 50°43’.50N, 001°59’.00W (ENT) Poole is the second largest natural harbour in the world, with an interior coastline of over 100 miles and covering nearly 10, 000 acres. It is a very shallow harbour and mariners are advised to stay within the marked channels, indicated by the red and green lateral posts or buoys, at all times within the Harbour to avoid running aground. When approaching from the east, the high cliffs of ‘Anvil Point’ will be clearly visible. As you get closer the white chalk cliffs of ‘Handfast Point’, also known as ‘Old Harry Rocks’, come into view. The main Swash Channel into Poole is well marked and is usable day and night in all conditions. In very strong winds from the south or southeast it can become dangerous on the ebb in the vicinity of Poole Bar. The channel itself runs between the ‘training bank’ on the western side and ‘Hook Sands’ on the eastern side. A small craft channel runs along the western side of the Swash Channel and is the recommended entrance for leisure vessels. It is marked on its western side by a series of lit and unlit red piles on the training bank and bounded on the eastern side by the red can buoys of the Main Swash Channel. Vessels using this channel should re-join the main Swash Channel between Number 8 buoy and Number 10 ready to traverse the Harbour Entrance. A handy alternative to the main Swash Channel, for those coming along the coast from the east, is to head straight for the entrance via the East Looe Channel. This is well marked with port and starboard hand buoys and runs west over the sands before dog-legging round to the southwest close along the shore. It is quite shallow and should be navigated with caution and avoided by deeper draught vessels. The Harbour Entrance is only 300m wide causing tides up to 5kn on an ebbing spring. Consult the tidal stream atlas and plan your entrance accordingly. A Chain Ferry runs across the Harbour Entrance taking vehicles and passengers between Sandbanks and Shell Bay. The ferry has right of way over all vessels. When the ferry is about to cross a black ball is hoisted in the rigging and a white strobe light will flash on the mast. Sam Kurtul 93 solenthandbook.com
POOLE HARBOUR After entering the harbour, the striking facade of Brownsea Castle will be clearly visible. There are many options available with regard to an overnight stop. Poole Quay Boat Haven is easily reached by following the Middle Ship Channel round to the north and then west POOLE HARBOURuntil you reach the south cardinal Stakes buoy (Number 29). Follow the ‘Little Channel’ towards Town Quay and the entrance to the Marina is clearly visible on the right hand side. Alternatively take the North Channel, leave the main ship channel at the ‘Bell’ Southerly Cardinal and proceed along the channel heading initially northeast and then bearing round to northwest. From this channel the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Salterns Marina, Parkstone Yacht Club, and Parkstone Bay Marina are easily accessible. South Deep offers a sheltered spot for a quiet night at anchor. After passing through the entrance make a sharp turn to port between port hand buoy No. 14 and the east cardinal Brownsea and venture down the marked channel southeast of Brownsea Island. You can’t anchor in the channel but with care you should find deep water just outside it. Remember to pay your harbour dues which can be paid online at www.phc.co.uk Navigational Hints: See Admiralty Chart 2611 or Imray Chart Y23. Please note: Be aware of the chain ferry in the entrance to the harbour and a byelaw which states that all vessels must give way to the chain and use a motor if fitted when transiting the harbour entrance. Contact: Poole Harbour Commissioners, 20 New Quay Road, Hamworthy, Poole, Dorset BH15 4AF. Tel: 01202 440200. phc.co.uk Poole Harbour Control: Tel: 01202 440230. VHF Channel 14 (vessels should maintain a listening watch from Bar Buoy inbound) Call Sign ‘Poole Harbour Control’. Poole Quay Boat Haven: Tel: 01202 649488. (Option 1). VHF Channel 80. Call Sign ‘Poole Quay Boat Haven’. Cobb’s Quay Marina at Hamworthy in Holes Bay lies in Poole Harbour, the world’s second largest natural harbour. It has a lively, seafaring atmosphere, and with 1,109 berths it’s a favourite with yachtsmen and motor cruisers alike. Out of the harbour to the east lies the Solent, offering year-round racing and sheltered cruising around the Isle of Wight. To the west is Studland Bay and Swanage, with its popular beach and white cliffs. To reach Cobb’s Quay Marina, enter Poole Harbour by the main Swash Channel from Poole Bar buoy; or from the east via the shallower East Looe Channel. Go up-harbour via the North Channel or Middle Ship Channel. Pass Poole Quay and transit the lifting bridges. Follow the buoyed channel to the marina. Cobb’s Quay offers 850 marina berths (max LOA: 25m) and 259 dry stack berths (max LOA:10m); fuel (petrol/diesel); gas; boat lifting and storage ashore; slipway; laundry facilities; restaurant and bar; jet ski pods; brokerage; chandlery; convenience store; electric vehicle charging; 24/7 self-storage facilities; and MDL Wi-Fi. 94 solenthandbook.com
POOLE QUAY POOLE QUAY BOAT HAVEN BOAT HAVEN POOLE QUAY POOLE QUAY BOAT HAVEN POOLE QUAY BOAT HAVEN POOLE QUAY BOAT HAVEN BOAT HAVEN PORT OF POOLE PORT OF POOLE MARINA MARINA HOME OF PORT OF POOLE PORT OF POOLE MARINA MARINA MARINA OF THE YEAR 2016 - 2017 - 2019 - 2020 PORT OF POOLE PORT OF POOLE MARINA MARINA POOLE A SEA OF DISCOVERY AWAITS THE SOUTH COAST’S PREMIER MARINA SWINGING MOORINGS VISITOR MARINA Relax with a glass of wine, on a 125 visitor berths all year for sunny afternoon, on your own vessels up to 75m in length swinging mooring in Poole and up to 4.8m draft Harbour overlooking Brownsea On the Port estate we can Island. Away from the madding accommodate vessels crowd, these offer you ultimate up to 210m in length with privacy, peace & tranquillity. a maximum draft of 9m. Poole Town Quay, Poole, Dorset BH15 1HJ t: 01202 649488 | poolequayboathaven.co.uk VHF Channel 80 call sign “Poole Quay Boat Haven” 95 solenthandbook.com
POOLE HARBOUR POOLE HARBOUR MDL Marinas Cobb’s Quay Contact: Cobb’s Quay Marina, Hamworthy, Poole, Dorset, BH15 4EL. VHF Ch 80. Tel: 01202 674299. cobbsquaymarina.co.uk Salterns Marina – Located within the beautiful entrance of Poole Harbour this prestigious Marina offers permanent and visitor berths, swinging moorings, Versa dock and storage ashore. Customer car parking and full marina and boatyard facilities include 24-hour manned security, 24-hour fuel, showers and laundry area, private member’s slipway, hoists, chandlery and a brokerage sales office. Call on VHF Ch 80 with call sign ‘Salterns Marina’. Contact: Salterns Marina, 40 Salterns Way, Lilliput, Poole, Dorset, BH14 8JR. Tel: 01202 709971. Email: [email protected] salterns.co.uk Salterns Marina Lake Yard Marina is ideally situated in an area of outstanding beauty on the north western edge of Poole Harbour. The 44 berth marina benefits from deep water access at all tidal states and outside the marina entrance are 100 swinging moorings. Lake Yard also has a fully equipped working boat yard and we offer a wide range of services including pressure washing, antifouling and polishing. 96 solenthandbook.com
POOLE HARBOUR POOLE HARBOUR Lake Yard Marina Access is easy by both sea and land. Approaching by sea, craft will need to pick up the Wareham Channel just past the Poole Ferry Terminal and Lake Yard is located just by WH3 and WH4 Channel Markers, between the distinguishable white buildings of Moriconium Quay and the Marines facility. Contact: Dorset Lake Shipyard, Lake Drive, Hamworthy Poole, BH15 4DT. Tel: 01202 674531. Email: [email protected] lake yard Swinging moorings Lake Drive, Hamworthy, Poole, Dorset BH15 4DT with water taxi. Visitor moorings available. Moorings & Boat Yard 1 451 Deep water marina o fi€e‚lakeyardƒ€om with 24-hour access. „l…†ho…se & ‡esta…rant Licensed restaurant & bar. 1 ˆ5 ood‚lakeyardƒ€om Changing rooms with showers & toilets. oat hoist & ard services. oston haler dealer. www.lakeyard.com 97 solenthandbook.com
PORT SOLENT PORT SOLENT CHANNEL: 50º 50’ 37” N, 01º 06’ 06” W (LOCK ENT) Port Solent is located in the northeast corner of Portsmouth Harbour, near the historic Portchester Castle. Portchester is one T SOLENTof the best preserved of the Roman ‘Saxon shore’ forts and was PORbuilt in the third century. There are spectacular views over the Solent from the Castle’s towers. Premier Marinas Port Solent The entrance to Portchester Lake lies about a mile north of Portsmouth Harbour entrance. At Pile No.78 call Port Solent on VHF CH.80 and request a Lock In. In season, the upper section is well marked by moored yachts. Out of season, beware of many unlit moorings on both sides of the channel. Do not proceed into the lock barrel unless three green entry lights show. If it is necessary to wait for the lock, moor to the outer waiting pontoon, clear of the lock entrance. Please note that during the winter months, the outer pontoon is removed. Port Solent Marina is a family friendly locked marina set amongst the vibrant Boardwalk’s array of restaurants, bars and entertainment. The marina also offers a fully serviced boatyard with storage ashore for over 300 boats, a fuel berth with pump-put facility, luxury showers and toilets, dedicated berth holder car parking, 24 hour security and marina staffing, and a children’s play area. The marina is also serviced by the Mariners Table cafe offering a breakfast menu and an all-day menu. The lock provides 24-hour access in and out of the marina. Contact: Port Solent Marina, South Lockside, Port Solent, Portsmouth, PO6 4TJ. Tel: 02392 210765. Email: [email protected] premiermarinas.com VHF Channel 80 98 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH & GOSPORT 50º47’.38N, 001º06’.65W (HARBOUR ENTRANCE) Portsmouth is Britain’s premier naval base and one of the T busiest harbours in the country. It is a very large natural harbour, almost completely landlocked except for the narrow entrance, with the approaches well sheltered by the Isle of Wight. TSMOUTH & GOSPOR POR Crown Copyright – MOD The King’s Harbour Master (KHM) Portsmouth is the regulatory authority of the Dockyard Port of Portsmouth, an area of approximately 55 square miles that encompasses not only Portsmouth Harbour itself, but includes all the waters from Cowes in the west to Hayling Island to Sandown Bay in the east, with the single exception of Bembridge Harbour. Traffic co-ordination for shipping entering and leaving Portsmouth Harbour is performed by Harbour Control which is manned 24 hours a day. The KHM and his staff have to ensure that the 130,000 yearly shipping movements under their control are safely carried out and with the minimum impact to the surrounding area. To facilitate the safe passage of small craft to and from Portsmouth Harbour, a ‘Small Boat Channel’ exists for vessels less than 20m in length on the western side of the harbour entrance. The northern and southern extremities of the Small Boat Channel are at Ballast pile and No. 4 Bar buoy, both of which are to be left close to PORT by vessels entering and departing. Remember, small boats are extremely difficult to see and the harbour entrance is a blind bend to larger vessels. All vessels under 20m shall enter and leave the harbour through the 50m wide Small Boat Channel. All craft fitted with engines, when navigating in the approach channel to Portsmouth Harbour, are to proceed under power between No. 4 Bar buoy and the Ballast pile. Vessels are only to cross the main channel when they are to the north of Ballast pile, and after permission has been obtained from the KHM on VHF Ch 11. 99 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH & GOSPORT T TSMOUTH & GOSPOR POR Crown Copyright – MOD The Small Boat Channel may only be entered or exited by vessels approaching from the east at its northern or southern extremities. If crossing the harbour entrance, do so to the north of Ballast pile or to the south of No. 4 Bar buoy. Keep to the starboard side of the Small Boat Channel and adjust speed to remain within the channel rather than overtake and be forced into the main channel. Mariners should also be mindful of the wash their vessel is creating, particularly when near or overtaking other vessels. Small boats may continue to use the Small Boat Channel when the main channel is closed for the passage of a large vessel, except for entry or exit of the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers when the Small Boat Channel will be closed to all vessels except the carrier and those assisting her. Extra caution is to be taken when operating in the vicinity of the harbour entrance to prevent small and less powerful boats being swept into midchannel from the Small Boat Channel by the strong cross-tide, especially at Springs when it runs as much as four knots. Plan your entrance/exit of the harbour with this in mind and consult nautical publications should needs be. It is essential that all mariners operating north of a line between Outer Spit Buoy and Gilkicker Point maintain a close listening watch on VHF Ch 11, for vessel traffic information from KHM Harbour Control. Do not underestimate the speed of ships. If your boat is slow, allow plenty of time to take evasive action in the vicinity of large ships. Be visible. At night make sure your navigation lights can be seen. At night be extra vigilant as, even on a clear night, you will have difficulty seeing a big ship approach. You might see it first as a black shadow against a background of shore lights, or as a growing shadow, at that point you are not far apart. Remember that your lights will not be easily spotted from the ship. If you see the navigation lights of a vessel and think you have not been seen, get out of the way. Carry a radar reflector high on your boat. Remember, from the bridge of a loaded container ship or large tanker, the captain or pilot will lose sight of you a third of a mile ahead, although you can see the ship at all times. Ships with deep draught may have less room for manoeuvre than is immediately apparent. 100 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH & GOSPORT T TSMOUTH & GOSPOR POR Crown Copyright – MOD In an emergency, if you believe you have not been seen or you are unsure of a ship’s intentions, call them on VHF Ch 11 or 16, then shift to a working frequency for inter-ship safety messages. The Swashway is an important channel for shallow draught vessels approaching and leaving Portsmouth Harbour. It should be noted that hovercraft and high-speed catamaran ferries often transit the area en-route to and from Ryde at speeds in excess of 24 knots. As non-displacement craft, hovercraft usually navigate outside the Swashway in areas where depths are shallow. The Spitbank area is regularly used for yacht racing and regattas. Yachts and slow moving craft are advised to keep watch for the possible approach of high-speed ferries and other fast craft. The speed limit within Portsmouth Harbour is 10 knots within 0.5nm of the line of MLWS in any part of the Dockyard Port of Portsmouth outside the harbour, ie across most of the Eastern Solent. The speed limit in each case is to be taken as ‘speed through the water’. High-speed craft are cautioned not to assume that other boats, particularly those whom they are overtaking, are aware of their presence, and are to give them a sufficiently wide berth and be mindful of their wash. When visibility in the harbour or approach channel is less than 0.25 of a nautical mile the KHM may declare the fog routine to be in force. Small boats may proceed with caution but must keep clear of the main navigable channels and the approach channel. The KHM will direct that the routine is in force, and when it has ended, by broadcasts on VHF Ch 11 or 13. Vessels without operational radars are advised not to proceed in such conditions, and in any event, should navigate with extreme caution in conditions of restricted visibility. Contact: King’s Harbour Master Portsmouth, Semaphore Tower, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, PO1 3LT. Tel: 02392 723694. Email: [email protected] Visit: royalnavy.mod.uk/khm/portsmouth for access to all KHM Portsmouth Safety Information, Local Notices to Mariners and General Directions, tidal information as well as other relevant Harbour information and sign up for our mailing lists containing maritime safety information. 101 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH & GOSPORT TReference: KHM Portsmouth General Direction 02/23. Small Boat Channel and access to Gunwharf Quays and Town Camber. The Small Boat Channel, as displayed on Admiralty charts, is defined by Ballast pile at its northern extremity and No 4 Bar Buoy to the south. As the harbour entrance is a blind bend for large TSMOUTH & GOSPORvessels, small boats operating near the harbour entrance are often PORdifficult to detect, the following rules therefore apply to all small boats, all vessels under 20m LOA: 1. Small Boats must enter and leave the harbour through the Small Boat Channel. 2. All craft fitted with engines, when navigating in the approach channel to Portsmouth Harbour, are to proceed under power between No 4 Bar buoy, Ballast pile. 3. Vessels greater than 20 metres in length may only use the Small Boat Channel with the express permission of KHM on VHF Channel 11. 4. The Small Boat Channel may only be entered or exited by vessels approaching from the east at its northern or southern ends. 5. A traffic pattern is established around Ballast Pile; small boats entering the harbour are to pass close to the east of Ballast Pile and those exiting close to the west, ie always leave it to port. 6. Small boats crossing the harbour entrance may only do so to the north of Ballast Pile and may not cross the main channel until south of 4 Bar Buoy. 7. Small boats, are not to loiter in the Small Boat Channel. 8. Small boats should remain on the Starboard side of the Small Boat Channel and should adjust their speed to remain within the Small Boat Channel rather than overtake other craft and be forced into the main channel. 9. All vessels using the Small Boat Channel are to leave 4 Bar Buoy to port, whether heading inbound or outbound. 10. In vicinity of BC Outer (red beacon), all vessels are to pass to the east of the beacon except those joining or leaving the Small Boat Channel at the Inner Swashway who are to leave it to port. 11. Immediately prior to departure from Gunwharf Quays/Town Camber, small boats are to request permission, from KHM on VHF Ch 11, to cross the harbour to Ballast Beacon before entering the Channel. Gunwharf Quays Marina – Fantastically located at the mouth of Portsmouth Harbour, beneath the iconic Spinnaker Tower, Gunwharf Quays Marina offers immediate access to the Solent and some of the best sailing and cruising on the South Coast. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Portsmouth’s Historic Naval Dockyard, this specially designed marina can accommodate power and sail craft up to 80 metres LOA with a maximum depth of 5.5 metres. Offering spacious and easily accessible berths this well positioned marina offers all guests a unique waterside experience. 102 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH & GOSPORT T TSMOUTH & GOSPOR POR Gunwharf Quays Marina Gunwharf Quays Marina offers berths for short stays and overnights as well as longer term options for both monthly and annual berths. We are also an excellent location for hosting events and regattas. We provide 24 hr on site security, access to water and electricity (32/16 amp), marina facilities, complimentary laundry service and subsidised car parking All berths are just a short stroll to all that Gunwharf Quays has to offer. Take advantage of over 90 incredible outlet stores, over 30 restaurants, cafes and bars, a cinema, bowling alley and casino. So why not experience the Solent marina with the warmest welcome! For further information or to book a berth, contact Gunwharf Quays Marina by phone, email or call VHF channel 80. Contact: Gunwharf Quays Marina, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, PO1 3TZ. Tel: 02392 836732. Email: [email protected] gunwharf-quays.com/marina Camber Dock – Set in the most historic part of the city, Camber Docks is home to KB-Boatpark Dry Stack, BAR Technology and Subsea Advanced Maritime Technology, the Wightlink ferry service, the local fishing fleet and fish market, commercial workboats, Portsmouth Sailing Club, and a number of private sailing and motor vessels. Visiting vessels are welcome and can moor alongside the quay wall next to the Bridge Tavern with a short stay charge collected by KBBoatpark staff on behalf of the Harbour Master. Contact: Camber Harbour Office, KB-Boatpark, 1st Floor, 96 Broad Street, Old Portsmouth, PO1 2JE. Tel: 02392 833166. Email: [email protected] 103 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH & GOSPORT T KB-Boatpark Dry Stack – KB Boatpark was one of the first Dry Stacks in the UK and the longest established in the Solent area. KB’s years of experience and enviable location at the entrance TSMOUTH & GOSPOR to Portsmouth Harbour in the most POR historic part of Old Portsmouth has made it a destination Dry Stack for KB Dry Stack many Rib and Sports Boat owners. KB-Boatpark has over 120 rack spaces for boats from 6m to 10m and new pontoons that were installed in 2021, always ensuring sufficient space on the holding berths. We recently imported a Wiggins forklift from America to add to our Clarke and Hoist machines, allowing greater flexibility for routine maintenance work, and quicker launching on busy days. Dredging of the Camber is planned for January 2023 to ensure we can continue to launch at spring low tides. Contact: KB-Boatpark, First Floor, 96 Broad Street, Old Portsmouth. PO1 2JE. Tel: 02392 833166. Mob: 07733 880260. Email: [email protected] kb-boatpark.co.uk Haslar Marina is a modern purpose-built marina in Portsmouth Harbour just minutes from the waters of the Solent. Located in Haslar Creek, Gosport, the marina offers sheltered berthing with no tidal restrictions. The marina has up to 120 dedicated visitors’ berths, catering for vessels up to 60m LOA. All berths are fully serviced with water, electricity, and Wi-Fi. On-site facilities include luxurious showers and washrooms, two laundries, 24-hour security, ample car parking as well as two brand new restaurants. Home to the convenient sail-in-and-go Sealift, Haslar Marina also boats a brand new motorboat yard and boatcare service centre as well as dedicated boat brokerage, boatpoint. ‘The Lightship’ restaurant and bar has been completely refurbished to create a destination venue. Upstairs, take in the panoramic views while you enjoy a sharing plate with your drink. Downstairs there is a superb restaurant for fine dining. Book online thelightshiphaslar.co.uk Boatfolk Haslar Marina 104 solenthandbook.com
T ‘The Creek’ restaurant and bar is located on the water’s edge, with stunning views of the marina and Portsmouth Harbour beyond. It has indoor and outdoor seating and a relaxed, laid-back vibe. TSMOUTH & GOSPOR Book online www.thecreekhaslar.co.uk. Both venues are dog friendly POR (Lightship: outside only). Call Sign ‘Haslar Marina’ on VHF 80. Contact: Haslar Marina, Haslar Road, Gosport, PO12 1NU. Tel: 02392 601201. Email: [email protected] boatfolk.co.uk/haslar-marina-portsmouth Premier Marinas Gosport Marina Premier’s Gosport Marina is situated just 500m from the entrance to Portsmouth Harbour and a breakwater ensures that boats are protected from wash from passing boats. Gosport Marina can accommodate 500 boats on berths up to 30m. There is electricity and water on the pontoons, car parking, free Wi-Fi and bottled gas available. The marina has luxury facilities, a launderette and The Boathouse café. There is also 24 hour a self- serve fuel berth, dry stack storage, a specialist boatyard (Endeavour Quay). Gosport High Street with a variety of shops is just two minutes away and a quick ferry trip over the water will find you at Gunwharf Quays. Contact: Gosport Marina, Mumby Road, Gosport, PO12 1AH. Tel: 02392 524811. Email: [email protected] premiermarinas.com VHF Channel 80 Gosport Ferry 105 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH & GOSPORT T Endeavour Quay offers a comprehensive refit maintenance and repair facility for commercial vessels and private sailing and power craft up to 40 TSMOUTH & GOSPOR metres LOA or 180 tonnes. POR Part of Gosport Marina, Endeavour Quay is also renowned for providing service and support for major yacht race projects. Supporting the yard’s lifting and storage services is a comprehensive range of independent onsite marine Premier Marinas Endeavour Quay service tenants and a chandlery. The yard also welcomes owner’s contractors onto the site as part of its ‘open yard policy’. Endeavour Quay offers easy access to The Solent and English Channel, with no air draft restriction, 130m of deep water pontoons, a 30m long and 8.8m wide lifting dock, and a 180 tonne travel hoist. Contact: Endeavour Quay, Mumby Road, Gosport, PO12 1AH Tel: 02392 584200. Email: [email protected] premiermarinas.com Royal Clarence Waterside & Marina lies within a deep water basin fronting the Royal Navy’s former victualling yard, tucked inside Portsmouth Harbour. It’s less than 10 minutes from the entrance to Portsmouth Harbour and close to Gosport town centre. The marina provides fully serviced pontoon berths ranging in length from 8 to 18m. There are also over 150 metres of alongside berthing available. The marina enjoys one of the deepest water basins in southern England with the capacity to take vessels up to 4 m draft. Royal Clarence Waterside & Marina has 150 fully serviced berths in an extremely sheltered position inside the harbour. The marina benefits from contemporary toilets, showers, laundry and visitors lounge, right next to the pontoons. VHF Ch 80, Call Sign ‘Royal Clarence Marina’. Contact: Royal Clarence Waterside & Marina, Weevil Lane, Gosport, PO12 1AX. Tel: 02392 523523. Email: [email protected] Royal Clarence Waterside & Marina 106 solenthandbook.com
RIVER HAMBLE & WARSASH 50°50’.40N, 01°18’.50W (ENT) Internationally famous as a first-class sailing centre, the River Hamble is also renowned for the excellence of its servicing and repair facilities offered in a variety of marinas and boatyards. ARSASH Whether your interest is racing, power-boating or blue water cruising, the Hamble has the facilities you need; deep water, easy access to the Solent at all states of tide. RIVER HAMBLE & W River Hamble Harbour Authority Popular with locals and visitors alike, the Hamble is perfect for weekend excursions or as a departure point for destinations further afield. It is used extensively by yachtsmen; competitors in Cowes Week and the Round the Island Race use the harbour as a base, and closer to home, local yacht clubs host the Hamble Winter Series, Warsash Spring Series, Bursledon Regatta, National, European and World championships. The river is not just a sailing Mecca, it is a nationally and internationally important site for nature conservation and a bird watchers’ paradise. Riverside walks or simply watching the world go by are popular pastimes. It also offers a safe location for small craft recreational sports such as rowing, canoeing/kayaking and the now very popular, stand-up paddleboarding. The river is a constant hive of activity during the summer season and therefore care should always be taken. Access to the River Hamble is available at all states of tide, although waves can build up at the entrance in a south-westerly wind combined with an ebb tide. By day, from the vicinity of Hamble Point Buoy, follow the main channel which is clearly marked with lit port and starboard-hand piles. From the Warsash Maritime Academy Jetty, the starboard side of the channel is clearly marked by four lit starboard-hand buoys. A ‘preferred channel’ mark (pile B1) is at the southern end of the first pontoon encountered; leave it to port for the main channel. Thereafter, the main channel is clearly marked with lit port and starboard-hand piles. At night, follow Hamble Common Directional light on a bearing of 352°, then Sailing Club Directional light on a bearing of 029° and then follow the lit buoys and piles as above. Depths obviously vary. Most marinas are dredged to 1.5m. Depths in the main channel vary from at least 4m in the approaches, to 2.2m at Bursledon Bend. Tidal streams can be very strong, particularly on the ebb. Mariners are advised to keep to the centre line or to starboard of the centre line and not too close to the entrance piles, especially at low water. Walk ashore facilities are available for visitors at the Harbour Master’s jetty at Warsash and Hamble. There are also black water pump-out facilities at the Warsash jetty and at Premier Marina 107 solenthandbook.com
RIVER HAMBLE & WARSASH Swanwick (VHF 80). There are also mid-stream visitors’ pontoons available between piles B1 and B6 (these are painted blue). For berth ARSASHallocation, visitors should call the Harbour Master on VHF Ch 68 Call Sign ‘Hamble Harbour Radio’ or by phone (the number is displayed on signage at all visitor pontoons). There is a 6 knot ‘through the water’ speed limit from No. 1 pile and wash limit on all vessels whilst within the River Hamble harbour RIVER HAMBLE & Wlimits. No anchoring is allowed in the river, except in the Upper Hamble, above River Hamble Country Park Jetty, where anchored boats must not be left unattended. Access to the Upper Hamble is through three bridges, the lowest of which (A27) has a clearance of 3.5 metres at Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT). Visitors should be aware that large numbers of paddle boarders (SUP) and other small craft users can be present throughout the season but most notably in the summer months, particularly from Swanwick northwards to the Upper Hamble. A designated route for Paddle craft, marked by simple pictorial signage, is now provided throughout the river to encourage users to keep clear of the main channel. Use of Midstream Visitors Pontoon B1- B6 For Training In its commitment to promoting river safety through its obligation to the Port Marine Safety Code, the River Hamble Harbour Authority recognises and encourages the wide range of commercial maritime training activities provided by competent qualified sailing/boating organisations and in doing so, has designated an area of its mid- stream visitor pontoons for mooring practice (subject to available space). • Vessels must contact the Harbour Office for permission prior to commencing. • 30 mins period only after which a short stay fee applies (see rates). • Vessels/Crew must be engaged in practical mooring practice only (‘touch & go’) • Vessels must monitor channel VHF68 at all times during training. For full guidance please contact the Harbour Office or visit the website. Contact: River Hamble Harbour Authority, Harbour Office, Shore Road, Warsash, SO31 9FR. Tel: 01489 576387. Email: [email protected] hants.gov.uk/hambleharbour Marinas may be contacted on VHF Ch 80 for berth availability. Deacons Marina & Yard is conveniently located just minutes from the M27 and enjoys a pretty river outlook. Staffed by a friendly and welcoming team, Boatfolk Deacons Marina the Marina is full service, with all new walk ashore pontoons, power and water. Deacons Marina boasts luxurious washrooms, ample car parking, free Wi-Fi and a range of on-site services including an excellent bistro, comprehensive chandlery and dedicated boat sales office, boatpoint. 108 solenthandbook.com
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RIVER HAMBLE & WARSASH The Yard at Deacons Marina provides 150 spaces ashore for boats up to 48 feet, with a state-of-the-art boatcare service centre for ARSASHpurchasing parts and engines and a dedicated boatcare team who can handle any task from paint and polish to keel removal, Coppercoat application to rudder rebuilds. On-site you will also find expert riggers and electronics specialists. Limited visitor spaces, so please call ahead to book. RIVER HAMBLE & WContact: Deacons Marina, Bridge Road, Bursledon, Southampton SO31 8AZ. Tel: 02380 402253. Email: [email protected] boatfolk.co.uk/deacons-marina-southampton Hamble Point Marina is hard to beat for its location alone, right at the mouth of the River Hamble with easy access to the world famous waters of the Solent. This makes the marina a magnet for competitive sailors from around the globe, and a favourite with racers and cruising yachtsmen alike. The 230-berth marina itself offers extensive shoreside facilities. Besides a well-stocked chandlery, bar and restaurant, Hamble Point also has the best range of new and used boats for sale on the South Coast. When approaching Hamble Point, please keep clear of commercial shipping in Southampton Water. From abeam Calshot Castle head for Hamble Pt South Cardinal buoy at the mouth of the well-marked river. From here the channel is narrow between drying banks, so be sure to leave the No 2 East Cardinal beacon to port. At night two directional lights lead to Warsash Jetty on the east bank. The entrance to Hamble Point Marina is 500m further north on the west bank. Hamble Point has 230 berths (max LOA: 30m) and 137 dry stack berths (max LOA: 10m). There is boat lifting and storage ashore; a 75-ton boat hoist; a 4-ton crane for masts / engines; slipway; boat repairs; electronic services; storage ashore; bar and restaurant; yacht brokerage; dry sailing facility; trailer sailing; electric vehicle charging; 24/7 self-storage facilities; and MDL Wi-Fi. Contact: Hamble Point Marina, School Lane, Hamble, Southampton, SO31 4NB. Tel: 02380 452464. VHF Ch 80. hamblepointmarina.co.uk MDL Marinas, Hamble Point Marina 110 solenthandbook.com
RIVER HAMBLE & WARSASH ARSASH RIVER HAMBLE & W MDL Marinas, Port Hamble Marina Port Hamble Marina is on the River Hamble, right in the heart of the South Coast’s sailing scene. With thousands of visitors every year, this busy marina is popular with racing enthusiasts and cruising vessels looking for an exciting atmosphere. The picturesque Hamble Village, with its inviting pubs and restaurants, is only a few minutes’ walk away. Our easily accessible fuel berth sells both petrol and diesel seven days a week, with late-night opening in the summer. When approaching Port Hamble, please keep clear of commercial shipping in Southampton Water. From abeam Calshot Castle head for Hamble Pt South Cardinal buoy at the mouth of the well-marked river. From here the channel is narrow between drying banks, so be sure to leave the No 2 East Cardinal beacon to port. At night two directional lights lead to Warsash Jetty on the east bank. Port Hamble Marina is about 0.75 miles north, the second marina on the west bank. Port Hamble has 310 berths, max LOA: 24m; fuel (petrol/diesel) seven days a week; boat lifting and storage ashore at Hamble Point Marina; electronic services; chandlery; laundry facilities; bar and restaurant; electric vehicle charging; yacht brokerage; 24/7 self-storage facilities; and MDL Wi-Fi. Contact: Port Hamble Marina, Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton, SO31 4QD. Tel: 02380 452741. VHF Ch 80. porthamblemarina.co.uk Stone Pier Boat Yard – Marina and boatyard at Stone Pier in Warsash, close to the mouth of the Hamble River. Services include craning, hard standing and covered storage, berthing and dry-sailing. Contact: R K Marine, Stone Pier Boatyard, Shore Road, Warsash, Southampton, SO31 9FR. Tel: 01489 564914. rkmarine.co.uk Stone Pier Yard 111 solenthandbook.com
RIVER HAMBLE & WARSASH Hamble River Boat Yard – Marina and boatyard at Swanwick, close ARSASH to the A27 road bridge over the Hamble River. Services include lifting, hard standing, berthing and marine engineering. Contact: R K Marine, Hamble RIVER HAMBLE & W River Boatyard, Bridge Road, Swanwick, Southampton, SO31 7EB. Tel: 01489 583572. Hamble River Boat Yard rkmarine.co.uk Mercury Yacht Harbour and Holiday Park is set in a sheltered wooded site where the shallow waters of Badnam Creek join the River Hamble. Originally built by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the marina offers berthing for 360 boats and enjoys deep water at all states of tide. Among its excellent facilities are a bar and restaurant with waterfront views. The marina is just a 20-minute walk from Hamble village. It is a scenic, peaceful spot, which still provides easy access to Southampton Water and the Solent. There are plenty of other tranquil anchorages to visit, such as Newtown Creek on the Isle of Wight or the pretty Beaulieu River. When approaching the marina, please keep clear of commercial shipping in Southampton Water. From abeam Calshot Castle head for Hamble Pt South Cardinal buoy at the mouth of the well-marked river. From here the channel is narrow between drying banks, so be sure to leave the No 2 East Cardinal beacon to port. At night two directional lights lead to Warsash Jetty on the east bank. About 1.35 miles north, Mercury Yacht Harbour and Holiday Park is the third marina on the west bank. Mercury Yacht Harbour and Holiday Park has 360 berths, max LOA: 24m; boat lifting and storage ashore at Hamble Point Marina; electronic services; towing; laundry facilities; bar and restaurant; yacht brokerage; sailing schools; yacht charters; electric vehicle charging; 24/7 self-storage facilities, holiday accommodation and MDL Wi-Fi. Contact: Mercury Yacht Harbour and Holiday Park, Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton, SO31 4HQ. Tel: 02380 455994. VHF Ch 80. mercuryyachtharbour.co.uk MDL Marinas, Mercury Yacht Harbour 112 solenthandbook.com
RIVER HAMBLE & WARSASH ARSASH RIVER HAMBLE & W Premier Marinas, Universal Marina Universal Marina – Beautifully located on the east bank of the Hamble River and surrounded by woods and salt marsh, Universal Marina is the newest addition to the Premier Marinas family. Offering 24-hour river access, it’s an ideal base to explore the Solent. Offering a full service boatyard with 75-tonne hoist, the river’s largest dry stack facility and dedicated berth holder facilities. Enjoy being amongst nature in this peaceful marina or stroll along the river bank towards Warsash or Swanwick. There is a vibrant restaurant, a bustling café and a selection of marine services to hand. Contact: Premier Universal Marina, Crableck Lane, Sarisbury Green, Southampton, SO31 7ZN. Tel: 01489 574272. Email: [email protected] premiermarinas.com VHF: Ch80 Premier’s Swanwick Marina is situated on the picturesque eastern bank of the River Hamble, approximately two miles upriver from the entrance to Southampton Water. If you’re planning to visit in the summer, please contact reception by phone or VHF Ch. 80 for berth availability and directions. At the marina you can look forward to brand new pontoons with electricity and water; a modern fully serviced boatyard with a wide range of marine services and a dry stack; luxury facilities, launderette and free Wi-Fi. There is also 24-hour security, berth holder car parking, a self-serve fuel berth with a high-speed pump and pump out. A pleasant onsite café, kayak and SUP hire. Contact: Swanwick Marina, Swanwick, Southampton, SO31 1ZL. Tel: 01489 884081. premiermarinas.com/Swanwick Premier Marinas, Swanwick Marina 113 solenthandbook.com
RYDE HARBOUR 50º43’.98N, 01º09’.31W (ENT) Ryde Marina is located on the northeast coast of the Isle of Wight and enjoys excellent views across the Solent towards Portsmouth. The well-situated marina is protected from adverse weather conditions from most directions. YDE HARBOUR R Ryde Marina, Jake Babington Ryde Marina is now run by Ryde Town Council and has already seen a number of improvements put in place including; all main pontoon walkways re-decked with Fibregrid, increased staffing levels with Marina operatives on site seven days a week 0800-1800 (summer hours), installation of CCTV, out of hours security patrols, installation of electric hook-ups. Refurbishment of the shower and toilet facilities are due to be completed for the 2023 summer season. Known as ‘the gateway to the Island’ and a popular destination for families, Ryde Marina lies next to long sandy beaches where you can hire everything you need for a day on the beach, as well as kayak and paddleboard hire. It is only minutes away from restaurants, a bowling alley, swimming pool and fun fair. Ryde Esplanade runs the full length of the seafront, followed by the promenade along the sea wall, which passes the Canoe Lake and reaches as far as Puckpool Park to the east. Connections to Portsmouth and Southsea are within easy walking distance. The marina dries and is only accessible to vessels approximately 2 hours before and 2 hours after High Water Portsmouth for a boat drawing 1.5M. Ryde Marina Operatives can be contacted on VHF Ch. 80 Call Sign ‘Ryde Marina’ and will provide directions and assist in berthing your vessel. VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1 27/01/2023 15:1227/01/2023 15:12 114 solenthandbook.com
RYDE HARBOUR YDE HARBOUR R Approaching Ryde Marina from the east, beware of Ryde Sands (dries), either pass north of No Man’s Land Fort or use the inshore passage between the fort and Ryde Sands beacons (lit port hand markers). Three Starboard hand markers and three Port hand marker mark the drying demarcation channel at 197º across Ryde Sands; these are unlit buoys. Keep well clear of the hovercraft manoeuvring between Ryde Pier and the marina, and the Wightlink high-speed ferries from and to Ryde Pier Head. The Marina entrance is lit after sunset by two fixed red lights (vertical) on the port side of the marina entrance, and one flashing green light on the starboard side of the marina entrance. There is pontoon berthing for vessels for up to about 14 metres in length, there is the option for fin keel vessels to lay alongside the marina wall. There are showers and toilets close by (due for refurbishment in 2023) as well as a public slipway, there is water on all pontoons, electric hook ups (installation in 2023), waste and recycling facilities. Mariners are advised that the marina entrance suffers from a periodic build-up of sand and so before visiting should consult the latest navigational notices issued by QHM (Portsmouth). VHF Ch 80 Call Sign ‘Ryde Marina’. There are also Local Notice To Mariners posted on the Ryde Marina webpage via www.rydetowncoucil.gov.uk Contact: Ryde Marina, The Esplanade, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 1JA. Tel: 01983 613879. Email [email protected] Paddleboards Kayaks Deckchairs Sunloungers Parasols Windbreaks Visit Ryde Marina and enjoy the beach with everything you need already here... visit the marina office for more information or call 01983 613879 115 solenthandbook.com
SEAVIEW 50º.43’.470N, 001º.06’.247W Seaview is a popular sailing village on the North East coast of the Isle of Wight. In the summer it is a vibrant, holiday destination brimming with families, many of whom have spent time here for generations. YDE HARBOUR R Jessica Dobbs The pretty streets, lined with historic buildings that go back to its fishing heritage, offer the visitor several places to eat and drink as well as shops that are a pleasure to browse in. The sea views from almost every street of this village spreading up the hillside away from the sea afford the village its name and there is no place better to enjoy these views than in the Sea View Yacht Club perched over the sea along the esplanade. Getting to Seaview is a delight in itself. The Sea View Yacht Club welcomes visitors from other yacht or similar clubs and provides a large number of visitors’ moorings that should be booked in advance at svyc.org.uk/visit. A launch service (daily from 1st May through to late September) takes you to the Yacht Club where you can enjoy a seaside meal, sip a refreshing beer or take a dip in the calm, clear waters off quay rocks. Please call Seaview Slip on VHF Ch M2/P4 on approach. Due to the exposed location of Seaview, it may not be possible to offer moorings/the launch service during strong North and East winds. If approaching Seaview from the West, be aware of Ryde sands. Once you have experienced the charms of Seaview, it will be hard to return to your boat and you will already be planning your next visit. Contact: Sea View Yacht Club, Esplanade, Seaview, Isle of Wight, PO34 5HB svyc.org.uk/visit VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1 27/01/2023 15:1227/01/2023 15:12 116 solenthandbook.com
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SOUTHAMPTON WATER 50º49’.00N, 01º17’.05W +(ENT) TERSouthampton Water is an extremely popular area for yachtsmen Abecause it offers sheltered cruising in nearly all-weather conditions, while the Hamble and Itchen Rivers are perfect for leisurely exploration. SOUTHAMPTON W As one of the country’s busiest and most successful deep-water ports, Southampton is a natural choice for a wide range of customers and trades, with facilities to handle virtually any type of cargo. Its natural deep-water harbour and unique double tide allow unrestricted access for the world’s largest vessels. ABP Southampton, in its role as the Statutory Harbour Authority for Southampton Water, has a strong commitment to protecting the local environment and plays an active role in ensuring that a balance of activities can be maintained, allowing port operations, recreational sailing, and wildlife to co-exist. In addition to its varied commercial activities Southampton Water is a haven for yachts and leisure craft, and ABP strives to preserve the safety of all users including recreational boat owners, as they sail the waters of the Solent. Contact: ABP Southampton, Vessel Traffic Services, Ocean Gate, Eastern Docks, Southampton, SO14 3QN. Tel: 02380 608208. southamptonvts.co.uk Before contacting VTS by telephone, please consider whether the answer to your question can be found on the website. Keep your VHF tuned to Ch 12, the Port working frequency, and listen for traffic information from the Harbour Master’s Operations Room, Call Sign ‘Southampton VTS’ (Vessel Traffic Services). The VTS Centre guards Ch 9, 12, 14, 16, 20 and monitors Ch 71 and 74. Facts to keep in mind: The number of large commercial ships serving the Port of Southampton and the number of recreational craft afloat in local waters is increasing. Most commercial vessels you meet will have an ABP Southampton Pilot on board regardless of the ship’s flag. They will be working on and listening to VHF Ch 12. Most large ships travel at a speed of between 10-15 knots whilst in the Solent and Southampton Water. The lower limit will vary from ship to ship and is ‘as safe navigation permits’. For various reasons, ships travel faster than you might think, even in congested areas. Light, partially loaded or unevenly trimmed ships may require to maintain a higher ‘as safe navigation permits’ speed in order to remain under full control. It takes less than 10 minutes for a fast ship to reach you from the visible horizon in clear weather, and in hazy conditions it takes a lot less. At 10 knots, a ship travels 1 nautical mile in six minutes; at 15 knots it takes only four minutes. Large deep draught ships cannot easily avoid small craft in narrow channels; it is up to you to stay clear. 118 solenthandbook.com
SOUTHAMPTON WATER A ship that is slowing down does not steer well; it needs the propeller TER action on the rudder to respond. When the ship’s engines are put A ‘full astern’, its manoeuvrability will be affected. Remember that it takes time and considerable distance for a ship to stop. There are numerous other small vessels operating within the Port of Southampton. Watch out for ferries, hydrofoils, tugs towing barges, especially at night, when unlit barges may remain invisible. SOUTHAMPTON W What can you do? Avoid sailing in the main navigational channels and fairways, especially in poor visibility. Obey Rule 9 of the ColRegs for conduct in narrow channels by keeping to the starboard side of the channel and crossing only when this does not impede the passage of a large vessel that can safely navigate only within the narrow channel. Do not underestimate the speed of ships. If your boat is slow, allow sufficient time to take effective evasive action in the vicinity of large ships. Be visible. At night make sure your navigation lights can be seen. If you see the navigation lights of a vessel and you think you haven’t been seen, get out of the way. Remember, from the bridge of a loaded container ship or large tanker, the Master or Pilot will lose sight of you a third of a mile ahead, although you can see the ship at all times. Keep watch at night. Even on a clear night you will have difficulty seeing a big ship approach. Remember that your lights will not be easily spotted from the ship. Watch the ship’s lights. If you see both sidelights, you are dead ahead - move out fast! Be aware that ships alter course at West Bramble and Calshot. Know whistle signals. Five or more short blasts on the whistle is the ‘Keep Clear’ signal. Check and see if it is for you - and if it is - give way. Three short blasts means ‘My engines are going astern’. Know flag signals and shapes. A large ship displaying a cylinder on her yardarm during the day or three red lights in a vertical line at night indicates the ship is severely restricted in her manoeuvrability so give her a wide berth. If you believe you have not been seen or you are unsure of a ship’s intentions, call them on Ch 12, then shift to a working frequency (6 or an alternative) for inter-ship safety messages. Safety in small vessels: A speed limit of 6 knots (over the ground) applies to all craft proceeding north of the imaginary line drawn from Hythe Pier through the Weston Shelf buoy to the Weston Shore unless granted an exemption by the Harbour Master. Although considered to be sheltered waters, Southampton Water and the Solent can be extremely hazardous. The six mile stretch of Southampton Water is exceedingly busy and has, on average, 70, 000 commercial vessel and ferry movements per year. Mariners in ‘small vessels’ are therefore reminded of the following requirements: If not confined to the fairway, they should not use the fairway so as to obstruct other vessels which can only navigate within the fairway. When crossing the fairway, they should do so at right angles and not diagonally. When crossing a fairway or turning they should not stop or slow down so as to cause obstruction/damage to any other vessel. As a general principle, they should navigate on the correct side of the fairway. Southampton VTS broadcast as and when required and appropriate to do so on VHF Ch 12. The Southampton VTS website at southamptonvts.co.uk contains much useful information for mariners in small vessels and regular use is recommended. 119 solenthandbook.com
SOUTHAMPTON WATER TERNOTICE TO MARINERS APort of Southampton – Precautionary Area (Thorn Channel) 1. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN in support of planning for the forthcoming busy season for all users of The Solent that all vessels navigating within the Port of Southampton shall ensure that a vessel SOUTHAMPTON Wgreater than 220 metres in length overall shall be given a ‘clear channel’ in the area between the Hook Buoy and the Prince Consort Buoy (hereinafter referred to as ‘The Precautionary Area’ - (see Chartlet 1)). The term ‘clear channel’ is defined as: ‘a clear and unimpeded passage ahead of a vessel when transiting the Precautionary Area’. The term ‘clear channel vessel’ is defined as: ‘a vessel greater than 220 metres in length overall which requires a clear and unimpeded passage ahead when transiting the Precautionary Area’. Vessels may enter ‘The Precautionary Area’ maintaining a safe distance astern of a ‘clear channel vessel’. 2. Two vessels each having a length greater than 180 metres length overall shall not pass or overtake each other between Hook Buoy and a line drawn due south of West Bramble Buoy. 3. Moving Prohibited Zone (MPZ) (See Chartlet 1) Southampton Harbour Byelaws 2003 Byelaw No 11 enforces the requirement that all vessels over 150 metres in length overall when navigating within ‘The Precautionary Area’ referred to in this notice are automatically allocated a ‘Moving Prohibited Zone’ (MPZ). The MPZ is defined as an area extending 1000 metres ahead of the bow and 100 metres from the ship’s side on both sides of any vessel of over 150 metres in length overall whilst it is navigating within ‘The Precautionary Area’ (See Chartlet 1). The master of a small vessel (defined in Southampton Harbour Byelaws 2003 Byelaw No 3 as any vessel of less than 20 metres in length or a sailing vessel) shall ensure that the vessel does not enter an MPZ. For the purpose of indicating the presence of the MPZ the master of any vessel of over 150 metres length overall shall display on the vessel, where it can best be seen, by day, a black cylinder, and by night, 3 all round red lights in a vertical line. 4. Tracks followed by Large Vessels Masters of small vessels are advised that the tracks followed by large vessels within The Precautionary Area will vary considerably depending on the tidal and wind conditions prevailing at the time and the manoeuvring characteristics of the vessels themselves. Chartlets 2 to 4 below demonstrate likely tracks for both inbound and outbound vessels in flood and ebb tide conditions. The tracks and courses shown are indicative only and inbound and outbound vessels may use the full extent of The Precautionary Area. Unless prevented by emergency circumstance, Masters of small vessels should give all large vessels in The Precautionary Area a wide berth and, in particular, they should ensure that they do not enter a vessel’s MPZ. 120 solenthandbook.com
SOUTHAMPTON WATER TER A SOUTHAMPTON W Chartlet 1 5. Inbound vessel tracks Flood tide If the tide is flooding, this will set an inbound ship to the east as it turns into the Thorn Channel. As it approaches The Precautionary Area, in vicinity of the Prince Consort Buoy, the ship will make a substantial alteration to port, of up to 40 degrees to the southwest towards Gurnard Buoy, in order to give the maximum turning area into the Thorn Channel. The turn to starboard may not be commenced until the ship is very close to or just passed Gurnard Buoy, thus allowing some set to the east in the approach to the Thorn Channel entrance (See Chartlet 2). In flood tide conditions, Masters of small vessels are advised to closely monitor the bearing of a large vessel as it approaches The Precautionary Area and to allow for the alteration of course to port. Chartlet 2 121 solenthandbook.com
SOUTHAMPTON WATER TER A SOUTHAMPTON W Chartlet 3 Ebb Tide If the tide is ebbing, the ship will be set to the west in the turn and thus the turn to starboard into The Thorn Channel will commence much earlier and as much as 4 – 5 cables from Gurnard Buoy. In this case, the alteration to port at Prince Consort Buoy may be less obvious (See Chartlet 3). 6. Outbound vessel tracks Flood and Ebb tide All ships leaving Southampton via the Thorn Channel start their turn to port as soon as West Bramble Buoy has been cleared, in order that on steadying up, their final heading is north of Prince Consort Buoy and directly towards the main channel south of Ryde Middle Bank. However, in ebb tide conditions the ship will be set to the west during the turn and may use the full extent of the south eastern quadrant of The Precautionary Area (See Chartlet 4). 7. Southampton Harbour Master’s Patrol Launch When operationally possible the Southampton Harbour Master’s Patrol Launch (VHF Call Sign ‘’SP’’ – watching VHF Channel 12) will precede all vessels over 150 metres in length overall within ‘The Precautionary Area’ showing, in addition to the normal steaming lights, an all round blue light. The absence of a patrol launch does not invalidate the implementation of a vessel’s MPZ. Within The Precautionary Area all instructions given by the Southampton Harbour Master’s Patrol Launch should be acknowledged and promptly carried out. Chartlet 4 122 solenthandbook.com
SOUTHAMPTON WATER Hythe Marina Village was the first marina village to be built in the TER UK and is still one of the finest. Located on Southampton Water’s A western shore, it’s a unique development of a 206-berth marina, waterside homes, shops, restaurant and bars, and a boutique hotel. The marina entrance is controlled by lock gates, operated 24 hours a day throughout the year, and there is easy access to Southampton Water and several of our other marinas situated in and around the SOUTHAMPTON W Solent. On nearing Hythe Knock red buoy, at the junction of the Rivers Itchen and Test, Hythe Marina Village is conspicuous to port just beyond Hythe Pier. Call on VHF Ch 80 or by mobile for clearance to lock-in and for a berth. Enter via a short channel aligned 220° and marked by beacons. Hythe Marina has 206 berths; max LOA: 16m*; fuel (petrol/diesel); gas; boat lifting and storage ashore; 40-ton boat hoist; slipway; boat repairs; laundry facilities; bar and restaurant; boutique hotel; electric vehicle charging; brokerage; 24/7 self-storage facilities; pump out station, and MDL Wi-Fi. Contact: Hythe Marina Village, Shamrock Way, Hythe, Southampton, SO45 6DY. Tel: 02380 207073. VHF Ch 80. hythemarinavillage.co.uk *Larger vessels can be accommodated but check with marina in advance MDL Marinas, Hythe Marina Village In the shelter of Southampton Water, and right in the heart of the city itself, Ocean Village Marina is much more than a marina. Surrounded by shops, restaurants, a cinema and bars, it offers outstanding recreational facilities. The basin, formerly used for commercial ships, is deep enough to offer mooring facilities for tall ships and large yachts. It has also become famous for hosting the start or finish of round-the-world yacht races. The marina is home to a £50m luxury spa hotel complex, the tallest residential building in the city, and exciting new restaurant and retail openings. To approach Ocean Village Marina, at Weston Shelf green buoy - near the junction of the Rivers Itchen and Test, keep to starboard up the Itchen. Ocean Village is about 1 mile further north to port and just short of the Itchen Bridge. Call on VHF Ch 80 or by mobile for a vacant berth. Ocean Village has 326 berths, max LOA: 60m; laundry facilities; cinema, bars and restaurants; indoor activity centre; convenience stores; yacht brokerage; 5-star hotel and spa; electric vehicle charging; 24/7 self-storage facilities; and MDL Wi-Fi. 123 solenthandbook.com
SOUTHAMPTON WATER TER A SOUTHAMPTON W MDL Marinas, Ocean Village Marina Contact: Ocean Village Marina, 1 Channel Way, Southampton, SO14 3QF. Tel: 02380 229385. VHF Ch 80. oceanvillagemarina.co.uk Shamrock Quay is a marina steeped in history, taking its name from the famous J-class yacht, Shamrock V, which was built on this site in 1931 to challenge for the America’s Cup. The 255-berth marina is still a major centre for refit and boat building with many specialist trades on site, as well as a bar and restaurant, café and shops. It has a 70-metre superyacht berth, a 60-metre visitor berth and a modern shower and toilet block including disabled facilities, Shamrock Quay is able to cater for all boat owners. To reach the marina, proceed up Southampton Water keeping clear of all commercial shipping. At Weston Shelf green buoy, near the junction of the Rivers Itchen and Test, keep to starboard up the Itchen and observe the 6-knot speed limit. Shamrock Quay is 1300m beyond the Itchen Bridge on the port side, opposite No 5 green beacon. Shamrock Quay has 255 berths; max LOA: 70m; summer sports boat package; boat lifting and storage ashore; 25-ton travel hoist with a 3-ton jib crane; 47-ton boat mover; extensive marine trades and services; chandlery; laundry facilities; shops; bar and restaurant; café; yacht charters; electric vehicle charging; 24/7 self-storage facilities and MDL Wi-Fi. Contact: Shamrock Quay, William Street, Northam, Southampton, SO14 5QL. Tel: 02380 229461. VHF Ch 80. shamrockquay.co.uk MDL Marinas, Shamrock Quay Saxon Wharf is a marine service centre offering outstanding facilities for superyachts and other large craft. Situated on Southampton’s River Itchen, north of Shamrock Quay, it’s the ideal location for big boats in need of secure, quick turnaround lift-outs, repair work or 124 solenthandbook.com
SOUTHAMPTON WATER TER A SOUTHAMPTON W MDL Marinas, Saxon Wharf full-scale refits. Its position near the centre of Southampton gives it easy access to the motorway. To reach Saxon Wharf, go past the Itchen Bridge and Shamrock Quay and follow the left bend past No. 9 green beacon. Saxon Wharf is to port, opposite Kemps Marina. Call on VHF Ch 80 or by mobile for a vacant berth. Saxon Wharf offers marina berths (max LOA: 80m) and 100 dry stack berths (max LOA: 13m); 200-ton boat hoist; storage ashore; fully serviced heavy-duty pontoons with electricity; extensive marine trades and services; fresh water; CCTV coverage; showers and toilets; car parking; 24/7 self-storage facilities; and MDL Wi-Fi. Contact: Saxon Wharf, Lower York Street, Northam, Southampton, SO14 5QF. Tel: 02380 339490. VHF Ch 80. saxonwharf.co.uk UK SOUTH COAST ENGINE, PARTS AND SERVICE SPECIALISTS Delivering the highest level of Engineering service and support to the leisure and commercial marine industry since 1935. Poole Portsmouth 27 West Quay Road, Poole, BH15 IUX 4-5 The Slipway, Port Solent, PO6 4TR 01202 677387 02392 201171 Southampton Swanwick Unit 17 Shamrock Quay, SO14 5QH Unit 7/8, Swanwick Marina, SO31 1ZL 02380 710371 02382 513123 goldenarrow.co.uk Genuine 2 Years Volvo Penta Parts Warranty 125 solenthandbook.com
SOUTHAMPTON WATER TERKemp’s Quay has been established for over 100 years. The marina A is situated on the east bank of the River Itchen, 2 miles north of the river mouth. Of the 260 berths available at the marina, 50 are non- tidal and afloat at all times, the remainder are semi-tidal. Hours afloat on these tidal berths vary in direct proportion to their proximity to the shore and are priced accordingly. SOUTHAMPTON WThe river bed is soft mud and affords stable berths for most craft when the tide is away. A landing/loading berth, afloat at all times, is available for boat owners who cannot leave or land within the tide window. Kemp’s Quay has single point security access; lift out and storage ashore; travel hoist with an 8 ton capacity; power washing; hard standing - 12 weeks for up to 80 craft - included in the mooring fee; fresh water to all pontoons; toilets and shower block; owners’ store. Contact: Kemps Shipyard Limited, Quayside Road, Southampton, SO18 1BZ. Tel: 02380 632323. Email: [email protected] kempsquay.com Town Quay Marina Town Quay Marina, located on the eastern shores of Southampton Water, has 130 berths and a dedicated visitors’ pontoon. In the heart of Southampton, the marina is within walking distance of the city’s shopping centre, restaurants, bars and theatres. The marina is well served by transport links to the Isle of Wight, the New Forest and London and lies next to the Southampton Boat Show. Entrance to the marina is via dogleg between two floating wave breaks that appear continuous from seaward. Beware of the adjacent Red Jet hi-speed ferry. The marina offers berthing assistance; contact Town Quay Marina them on VHF Ch 80 or by phone. The marina is part of the TransEurope Marinas group. It has a berth holders’ reception- with free drinks, and is an official Ocean Safety drop off/collection point and a SeaSafe service point for life jackets. There is a chillout deck with use of gas barbecue, free bicycle hire for all customers, a slipway, car parking, laundry room, top quality shower rooms, free Wi-Fi and water on all berths. Contact: Town Quay Marina, Associated British Ports, Management Office, Town Quay, Southampton, SO14 2AQ. Tel: 02380 234397 or 07764 293588. Email: [email protected] townquay.com 126 solenthandbook.com
VENTNOR HAVEN 50º35’.53N, 01º12’.50W (ENT) Ventnor, on the south coast of the Isle of Wight, is sheltered by VEN high cliffs. A steep road winds down from the terraced town past the famous cascade gardens to the seafront. VENTNOR HA Island Visions, Jamie Russell This fair-weather harbour does not have any visitor berths; however, it provides an access facility for local boat owners, anglers, and other interest groups. You will find a harbour-side café and coffee shop, boat builders, boat charter, a fish landing stage with fishery outlet, and a fish and chip shop. Navigating the harbour entrance is suitable only in certain weather conditions and tides. The harbour is not suitable for sailing boats or motorboats which cannot dry out. The entrance dries completely at Spring Low Water and is very shallow during Neap Lows. The depth is variable and is dependent on movement of sediment. Beware of the two rock arms - the largest extending seaward (south) from the site of the old pier before curving to the southeast. The smaller arm, some 58m to the east, extends seaward towards the first arm with a 24m gap. Shelter is reasonable in the lee of the rock arms during southwest through to north-easterly winds, and extremely vulnerable in east through to south-southeasterlies when swells can enter. The harbour is exposed to strong winds from all directions except northwest to northeast. Cheetah Marine are currently contracted to remove seaweed and sediment with a custom-built shallow water dredger. During some periods it is not possible to remove the seaweed as it is deposited leading to a build-up within the harbour and at the entrance. There is a 4-knot speed limit in the Harbour. No anchoring is permitted except in an emergency and no anchoring or mooring in the Haven entrance or in the harbour. Boats should be aware of bathers and snorkelers swimming alongside the Haven rock arms. Fuel is not available. Contact: Harbour Master 01989 821000 ext.: 5978 or Isle of Wight Council, County Hall, High Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 1UD. Tel: 01983 821000 Please note that this information is to be used as a guide only and not for navigation. 127 solenthandbook.com VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1 27/01/2023 15:1227/01/2023 15:12
WOOTTON CREEK 50º44’.09N, 01º12’.77W (ENT) Wootton Creek is one of the lovelier creeks in The Solent, with wooded valleys sweeping down to a winding creek. Midway between Cowes and Ryde, it was once used by trading sailing TTON CREEKvessels visiting the brickworks at Ash Lake, and the tide mill at WOOthe head of the creek where the Sloop Inn now stands. Island Visions, Jamie Russell Today, there is little left apart from the old names. If trading barges could navigate to the head of the creek, then visiting yachts should easily make their way at least as far as the pontoons of the Royal Victoria Yacht Club (RVYC) at the entrance to the creek. It should be remembered that those skippers worked their tides, and even today 70 foot ketches drawing over 8 foot have laid alongside the RVYC pontoons, but have swiftly departed once the tide is on the ebb. An ideal time to visit is when High Water is over a lunchtime, meaning a good height of tide, and time to sample the RVYC hospitality at its bar and dining room. It is well-liked by visitors, and popular with rallies, and as a destination for passage races. Be aware that the direction of buoyage in the eastern Solent is from east to west. Pilotage is straightforward with a compass, dependable echo sounder, and a good lookout. The entrance to Wootton Creek is beset by hazards to the east and west. It is a busy car ferry port, with regular Wightlink sailings throughout the day and night. To the east, are drying gravel banks that have been known to embarrass a passing ferry. To the west are rock ledges coming out from the shore, and the dangerous Wootton Rocks themselves. Yachts close inshore may have local knowledge and lifting keels! The entrance to Wootton Creek is best taken from the north cardinal, Wootton Beacon. It lies approximately 3.5nm from Cowes and only 1.5nm from Ryde Pier. It is best approached an hour or so either side of High Water on the first attempt. The ferry fairway is lit, with an occulting sectored light, and there is plenty of shore lighting on the link-span. No matter from which point of the compass you’re approaching, it is best to stay to the north of Wootton Beacon for your approach. Once at Wootton Beacon, if safe from entering and departing ferries, turn southwest and run down the western side of the ferry channel, staying outside of the channel itself. Keep an eye on the echo sounder, there should be plenty of water, if there isn’t, then you won’t get very far into the creek! Be aware that you may find ferries waiting to dock at the ferry terminal to the west of the fairway. By the time you come to No. 7 dolphin, you’ll see the ferry link-span on your port hand, and the Wootton Creek port and starboard buoys ahead of you; these are maintained and positioned as needed by the 128 solenthandbook.com
Queen’s Harbour Master (QHM) at Portsmouth. Head through them, TTON CREEK and if heading further up the Creek you will see the leading marks off WOO VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1 27/01/2023 15:1227/01/2023 15:12 to starboard on the opposite bank. If calling at the RVYC, you will see their pontoons ahead of you. The northernmost pontoons are private, RVYC pontoon mooring is available past the visible sign. Berthing is straightforward, but be aware that at some states of tide there will be some flow across the pontoons. Do not approach through the private RVYC moorings, or indeed try to pick up one, as there are countless pick-up buoys and lines. If vessels are already berthed alongside hail and askto raft up. You may be asked to move your boat to accommodate other visitors. (Pontoon fees can be paid at the RVYC bar, or if the club is closed, dropped through the letterbox by the club entrance, using a pre- printed enveloped available to pick up on the pontoon. You can also pay by BACS direct to the club’s account.) There is fresh water on the pontoons, showers and toilets in the clubhouse, a slipway, waste facilities, and an excellent bar and catering. Please check for opening hours and information for visitors are available on the website (see below). The creek alongside the pontoons will dry, so unless you are prepared to take the ground, you must depart once the ebb starts to make. The water will seem to empty quite slowly for the first couple of hours, but be aware that around the third hour the tide goes away very quickly; do not linger over that last pint at the bar! The bottom is irregular in shape and consistency, and careful fendering, tending of lines, and a watchful eye is needed as your vessel takes the ground. The speed limit in the creek is 5 knots. The tidal current is relatively benign, seldom reaching above 4 knots although just after High Water at Springs, the sluice gates under Wootton Bridge are opened considerably, increasing the flow in the upper reaches. There are no visitor moorings in the creek and anchoring in the channel is prohibited. Anchoring outside the channel is not recommended due to the proliferation of abandoned ground chains and other mooring tackle. There is a Council-owned public slipway suitable for small vessels between the Sloop Inn and the bridge at the head of the creek. The village of Wootton Bridge offers a full range of facilities; take- aways, tea room, launderette, doctor and vet, supermarket and wine warehouse; just outside the village is a garage. It’s about 30 minutes walk from the RVYC, or take the dinghy up the Creek on the tide and land on the public slipway on the west bank at the head of the creek, right by the Sloop Inn. Contact: Royal Victoria Yacht Club, 91 Fishbourne Lane, Fishbourne, Isle of Wight, PO33 4EU. Tel: 01983 882325. Email: [email protected]. rvyc.org.uk 129 solenthandbook.com
YARMOUTH HARBOUR 50º42’.42N, 01º30’.00W (ENT) The most westerly harbour on the Isle of Wight, picturesque Yarmouth Harbour acts as a gateway to West Wight and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Wightlink vehicle ferry service from Lymington to Yarmouth brings thousands of visitors to the Island every year. Yarmouth Harbour is a key ARMOUTH HARBOURdestination for many seafarers travelling from elsewhere in Y the Solent, but also from the South Coast and West Country, Ireland, the Channel Islands, France, Belgium, Holland, Germany, Scandinavia and more. Yarmouth Harbour, C Taylor Yarmouth Harbour’s proximity to The Needles and the English Channel makes it ideal for those entering or leaving the Solent. Visiting yachts, motorboats and RIBs are welcomed throughout the year. Over 150 visitor berths are available daily and allocated on arrival by the friendly Berthing Masters. A limited number of berths can also be booked in advance. Unique to Yarmouth Harbour is the on-water berthing assistance provided to visiting vessels to take the stress out of mooring up. When approaching from the east, leave East Fairway buoy to port, turn onto a bearing of 187° and follow the leading marks. When approaching from the west, leave the Poole Belle buoy to starboard, turn onto a bearing of 187° and again, follow the leading marks. These are exhibited as two white diamonds with a black horizontal stripe by day or two green lights at night. Yarmouth Harbour is accessible at all states of the tide. The approaches are maintained at 2.5m below CD and 2m below CD inside the harbour. Yarmouth Harbour operates on VHF Ch68, Call Sign ‘Yarmouth Harbour’, monitored by the Harbour Office and Berthing Masters on the water. The water taxi operates on VHF Ch15, Call Sign ‘Harbour Taxi’ and can also be called on 07969 840173. Vessels approaching the harbour should call Yarmouth Harbour on VHF Ch68 to request a berth or refuel. The fuel berth is easily accessible near to the harbour entrance and offers competitively priced petrol and diesel. The fuel berth is open from 0700 hrs until 1900 hrs GMT, and 24 hours BST. On spring tides, the last hour of the flood and ebb can see strong tidal movement in the harbour entrance and in various parts of the harbour. There can be a double high tide or a long stand at spring tides. The Berthing Team are afloat and will assist you to a berth. If you are short-handed or you require assistance the Berthing Masters will be on hand to assist you every step of the way. 130 solenthandbook.com
An ‘Arrival Guide’ explaining how to enter the harbour can be found online at: yarmouth-harbour.co.uk. VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1VIOW Solent Handbook banner 82x21 ARTWORK.indd 1 27/01/2023 15:1227/01/2023 15:12 ARMOUTH HARBOUR Once moored up, why not visit ‘Cockpit Essentials’, Yarmouth Y Harbour’s very own visitor refreshment lounge, where you can enjoy freshly ground coffee and purchase other drinks, ice, and snacks. Free Wi-Fi is provided, and you can also charge your phones and devices while watching the news and weather on the screens. Toiletries and other essentials are also available, plus Isle of Wight guides, maps and souvenirs. Other facilities include new showers and toilets for wheelchair users, an upgraded launderette facility, waste and recycling disposal, and gas sales. Mooring fees at Yarmouth Harbour are very competitive and include free showers. There are several slipways for public use in Yarmouth. The largest slipway is on the corner between the South Quay and Town Quay, and accessed via the Wightlink marshalling area. If intending to pass through the Yar Swing Bridge into the river during the summer season, please call Yar Bridge on VHF Ch68. Boat owners are requested to co-operate by synchronising their bridge use around a schedule of fixed opening times, as published on: yarmouth-harbour. co.uk. For winter operation, the bridge will be opened by prior arrangement with the Harbour Office, call sign ‘Yar Bridge’ on VHF Ch68 or by phone on 01983 760321. The punctuality of boat arrivals to a close but safe proximity to the bridge is essential to prevent road traffic congestion. Users of the harbour are asked to familiarise themselves with Yarmouth Harbour’s rules and regulations, called General Directions, which are there to ensure your safety and enjoyment during your stay. Top safety tips, and advice on using a tender at Yarmouth Harbour, along with the latest Local Notices to Mariners can all be found in the new ‘Safety’ section on the website: yarmouth-harbour. co.uk. Contact: Yarmouth Harbour Office, The Quay, Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, PO41 0NT. Tel: 01983 760321. Email: [email protected] yarmouth-harbour.co.uk Chris Boynton 131 solenthandbook.com
your wedding, your way . . . Have your special day at The Wellington Hotel with unbeaten views overlooking the picturesque bay of Ventnor, for a truly wonderful celebration. Here to make your dreams come true providing you with an unforgettable day of love and togetherness. The historical Victorian villa turned boutique style accommodation enjoys an unrivalled position situated proudly overlooking the English Channel, just footsteps away from the southernmost beach on the Isle of Wight. We treasure 24 ensuite bedrooms framed by private balconies and breath-taking views of the glimmering waves just 100 yards ahead, accessible by our very own private steps. Submerge yourself into the depths of endearment and allow us to make your wedding, your way. With sole use of the hotel on offer, celebrate with your friends and family starting from £1,500. +44 (0)1983 856 600 www.thewellington.co.uk 132 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT DIRECTORY INDEX Y your wedding, your way . . . SOLENT DIRECTOR Have your special day at The Wellington Hotel with unbeaten views overlooking the picturesque bay of Ventnor, for a truly wonderful celebration. Here to make your dreams come true providing you with an unforgettable day of love and togetherness.Sam Kurtul Accommodation - B & B / Guest Houses 134 Marine Surveyors 137 Boat Cleaning / Care & Maintenance 134 Masts / Rigging / Rope Systems 136-137 Boat Sales / Brokers 134 Moorings / Berths / Boat Storage / Dry Stack Boat Transport / Yacht Delivery 134 137-138 Boatyards / Boatbuilders / Repairers 134 Paint / Spraying 138 Chandlers 134 Photography 139 Charter Boats / Boat Cruises / Sailing Holidays Refrigeration & Air Conditioning 140 134-135Restaurants 140 Cranes / Boat Lifts / Slipways / Hoists 135 Rib Hire & Charter/ Sales 140 Electrical / Electronics 135 Sail Makers 140-141 Engines / Outboards / Marine Engineers 135 Sailing & Power Schools 141 Event Management 135 Sanitation 141 Fuel Berthing 136 Water Taxis 141 The historical Victorian villa turned boutique style Hospitality 136 Yacht Clubs & Associations 141 accommodation enjoys an unrivalled position situated Insurance 136 Yacht Upholstery 141 proudly overlooking the English Channel, just footsteps away from the southernmost beach on the Isle of Wight. We treasure 24 ensuite bedrooms framed by private balconies and breath-taking views of the glimmering waves just 100 yards ahead, accessible by our very own private steps. Submerge yourself into the depths of endearment and allow us to make your wedding, your way. With sole use of the hotel on offer, celebrate with your friends and family starting from £1,500. +44 (0)1983 856 600 www.thewellington.co.uk 133 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT DIRECTORY Y BED & BREAKFAST / GUEST HOUSES Britannia House Station Street, Lymington, SO41 3BA EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.britannia-house.com 07808 792639 Ward Avenue B&B 24 Ward Avenue, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 8AY SOLENT DIRECTOREMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.cowesbedbreakfast.co.uk 01983 292070 BOAT CLEANING / CARE & MAINTENANCE Ancasta Yacht Services Hamble Yacht Services, Hamble, Southampton, SO31 4NN EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: ancastayachtservices.com 02380 454111 Richardsons Yacht Services Island Harbour, Mill Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2LA EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095 BOAT SALES / BROKERS Ancasta International Boat Sales Port Hamble, Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton, SO31 4QD EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: ancasta.com 02380 450000 BOAT TRANSPORT / YACHT DELIVERY Boat Transport Ltd The Mainstay, 7 Fairview Drive, Southampton, SO45 5GX EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.boattransport.co.uk 02380 845500 / 07831 486710 BOATYARDS / BOATBUILDERS / REPAIRERS Clare Lallows Ltd 3 Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7BU EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.lallowsboatyard.co.uk 01983 292112 Richardsons Yacht Services Island Harbour, Mill Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2LA EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095 CHANDLERS Richardsons Yacht Services Island Harbour, Mill Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2LA EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095 CHARTER BOATS / BOAT CRUISES / SAILING HOLIDAYS Hamble Point Yacht Charters Hamble Point Marina, School Lane, Hamble, SO31 4JD EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.yacht-charter.co.uk 02380 457110 Salty Sailing Shepards Marina, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7HT EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.saltysailing.co.uk 01983 282867 Secret Service Charters Yarmouth Harbour, Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, PO41 0NT EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: secretservicecharters.com 07555 002001 134 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT DIRECTORY CHARTER BOATS / BOAT CRUISES / SAILING HOLIDAYS (CONT.) Y SECRET SERVICE CHARTERS® 07555 002 001 . secretservicecharters.com SOLENT DIRECTOR CRANES / BOAT LIFTS / SLIPWAYS / HOISTS Clare Lallows Ltd 3 Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7BU EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.lallowsboatyard.co.uk 01983 292112 Cowes Yacht Haven Ltd Vectis Yard, High Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7BD EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.cowesyachthaven.com 01983 299975 Richardsons Yacht Services Island Harbour, Mill Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2LA EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095 ELECTRICAL / ELECTRONICS ENGINES / OUTBOARDS / MARINE ENGINEERS Richardsons Yacht Services Island Harbour, Mill Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2LA EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095 EVENT MANAGEMENT Corporate Sailing & Power Boat Events Direct leading suppliers with over 30 years experience Team Building | Cowes Week | Americas Cup World Series SailGP | Client Days | Company away days t 0845 871 0166 [email protected] www.seriouslycoolevents.co Solent Events Unit 6, Dell Buildings, Milford Road, Lymington, SO41 0ED EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.solent-events.co.uk 01590 674900 135 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT DIRECTORY Y FUEL BERTHING Clare Lallows Ltd 3 Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7BU EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.lallowsboatyard.co.uk 01983 292112 HOSPITALITY Cowes Yacht Haven Ltd Vectis Yard, High Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7BD SOLENT DIRECTOREMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.cowesyachthaven.com 01983 299975 Hamble Point Yacht Charters Hamble Point Marina, School Lane, Hamble, SO31 4JD EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.yacht-charter.co.uk 02380 457110 INSURANCE Sail with peace of mind. Sail with Topsail. Boat and Sailing Travel Insurance specialists Tel: + 44 (0) 1273 57 37 27 Email: [email protected] MASTS / RIGGING / ROPE SYSTEMS Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics Hamble Yacht Services, Hamble, Southampton, SO31 4NN EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: advancedrigging.co.uk 02380 454280 01489 876876 [email protected] www.allspars.co.uk Allspars - Award innin rofessional iers on our oorstep Watever your reuirements we can elp rom a simple seave replacement a mast & rigging refit or a bespoke sail andling solution no ob is too big or small or us€ ‚et in touc to find out ow we can elp A Selection of Services Offered • Masts & Spars • Rig Survey & Report • Rod Rigging • Hydraulic Servicing • Standing Rigging • Fabrication Work • Running Rigging • Splicing • Furling Systems • Arcitectural Rigging • Deck Hardware • arbon Solutions www.allspars.co.uk B A Yacht Services Cowes Boat Yard, Arctic Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7PG EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.bayachtservices.com 07976 715338 Solent Handbook 2022.indd 25Solent Handbook 2022.indd 25 24/01/2023 15:52:4724/01/2023 15:52:47 First Spars American Wharf, Elm Street, Southampton, SO14 5GA EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: firstspars.com 0800 088 6102 Richardsons Yacht Services Island Harbour, Mill Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2LA EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095 136 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT DIRECTORY MASTS / RIGGING / ROPE SYSTEMS (CONT.) Y Rigit Masts & Rigging Ltd Itchen Marine Ltd, American Wharf, Elm Street, Southampton, SO14 5GA EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: rigituk.com 0808 281 9423 / 07593 220213 MARINE SURVEYORS MOTORBOAT AND SOLENT DIRECTOR YACHT SURVEYOR Tim Barker +44 (0)7973 836499 [email protected] www.anchormarinesurveys.co.uk CJ Wilks Marine Surveyors Chris Wilks +44 (0)7806 303740 [email protected] www.cjwilksmarinesurveyors.co.uk MOORINGS / BERTHS / BOAT STORAGE / DRY STACK COWES BOATYARD Birdham Pool Waterside & Marina Birdham, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 7BG EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.aquavista.com 01243 512310 COWES BOATYARD Boat storage & maintenance in the heart of Cowes n 60 tonne boat hoist n Lift out, pressure wash & launch package n Boat storage area n Range of local marine services available T 01983 203872 www.cowesboatyard.co.uk Cowes Yacht Haven Ltd Vectis Yard, High Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7BD EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.cowesyachthaven.com 01983 299975 Deacons Marina Bridge Road, Bursledon, Southampton, SO31 8AZ EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.boatfolk.co.uk/deacons-marina-southampton 02380 402253 East Cowes Marina Britannia Way, East Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO32 6UB EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.boatfolk.co.uk/east-cowes-marina 01983 293983 137 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT DIRECTORY Y MOORINGS / BERTHS / BOAT STORAGE / DRY STACK (CONT.) Folly Mooring River Medina, Isle of Wight EMAIL: [email protected] 07884 400046 Haslar Marina Haslar Road, Gosport, PO12 1NU EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.boatfolk.co.uk/haslar-marina-portsmouth 02392 601201 SOLENT DIRECTOR Quayside Marina Quayside Road, Southampton, SO18 1AD EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.quaysidemarina.co.uk 02380 238084 Royal Clarence Waterside & Marina Weevil Lane, Gosport, PO12 1AX EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.aquavista.com 02392 523523 Shepards Marina Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7HT EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.cowesharbourshepardsmarina.co.uk 01983 297821 Southampton Dry Stack Drivers Wharf, 146 Millbank Street, Southampton, SO14 5QN EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.southamptondrystack.co.uk 02380 238084 Yarmouth Harbour The Quay, Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, PO41 0NT EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.yarmouth-harbour.co.uk 01983 760321 PAINT / SPRAYING Clare Lallows Ltd 3 Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7BU EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.lallowsboatyard.co.uk 01983 292112 Richardsons Yacht Services Island Harbour, Mill Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2LA EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095 138 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT DIRECTORY PHOTOGRAPHY Y SOLENT DIRECTOR 139 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT DIRECTORY Y REFRIGERATION & AIR CONDITIONING SOLENT DIRECTOR Penguin Refrigeration Limited Unit 2B Alexandria Park, Penner Rd, Havant, PO9 1QY EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.penguinfrigo.co.uk 02392 453430 RESTAURANTS The Old Fort, Seaview Esplanade, Seaview, Isle of Wight, PO34 5HB EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: theoldfortseaview.co.uk 01983 612363 RIB HIRE & CHARTER / SALES C2 RIBS Hamble Point Marina, School Lane, Hamble, Southampton, SO31 4NB EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.c2ribs.co.uk 02380 010099 / 07956 339303 Solent Rib Charter Unit 6, Dell Buildings, Milford Road, Lymington, SO41 0ED EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.solentribcharter.co.uk 01590 607101 SAIL MAKERS OneSails GBR (South) Hamble Point Marina, School Lane, Hamble, SO31 4JD EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.onesails.com 02380 458213 Paul Newell Sails 6 Redwing Quay, The Embankment, Bembridge, Isle of Wight, PO35 5PB EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.paulnewellsails.com 01983 872834 140 solenthandbook.com
SOLENT DIRECTORY 6860-Advert (82 x 21mm)_Layout 1 16/01/2020 16:06 Page 1 SAIL MAKERS (CONT.) Y BOAT COVERS ● BIMINIS ● SPRAYHOODS TONNEAUS COCKPIT ENCOSURES BOAT UPHOSTERY STACKPACKS Tailored to perfection ... designed to last SOLENT DIRECTOR Telephone: (023) 9255 6548 Email: [email protected] www.tecsew.com SAILING & POWER SCHOOLS eSail www.esailYachtSimulator.com E MARIN Hamble Point Sailing School Hamble Point Marina, School Lane, Hamble, SO31 4JD EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.yacht-school.co.uk 02380 457110 YOUR E MARIN SANITATION YOUR E Only LeeSanOnly LeeSan MARIN truly specialisetruly specialise in tin toiletsoilets [email protected]@leesan.com T: 01295 770000om T: 01295 770000 WATER TAXIS Cowes Watertaxi VHF Ch 06 Call Sign ‘Cowes Watertaxi’ 07551 431993 Folly Launch VHF Ch 72 Call Sign ‘Folly Launch’ EMAIL: [email protected] 07884 400046 Folly Waterbus VHF Ch 77 Call Sign ‘Waterbus’ EMAIL: [email protected] 07974 864627 YACHT CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 39 Birmingham Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7BH EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.ccyc.org.uk 01983 296333 Hornet Services Sailing Club Haslar Road, Gosport, Hants, PO12 2AQ EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.hornetservicessailing.org.uk 02392 580403 Marchwood Yacht Club Marchwood, Southampton, SO40 4AD EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.marchwoodyc.org.uk 02380 666141 Phoenix Yacht Club Haslar Marina, Haslar Rd, Gosport, PO12 1NU EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.phoenixyachtclub.co.uk 02380 760487 Royal Air Force Yacht Club Riverside House, Rope Walk, Hamble, Southampton, SO31 4HD EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.rafyc.org.uk 02380 452208 Royal Solent Yacht Club The Square, Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, PO41 0NS EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.royalsolent.org 01983 760256 Royal Victoria Yacht Club 91 Fishbourne Lane, Fishbourne, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 4EU EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.rvyc.org.uk 01983 882325 Royal Yacht Squadron The Castle, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7QT EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.rys.org.uk 01983 292191 Sea View Yacht Club Esplanade, Seaview, Isle of Wight, PO34 5HB EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.svyc.org.uk 01983 613268 YACHT UPHOLSTERY 141 solenthandbook.com
COWES TIDE TABLES 2023-24 RISE & FALL OF THE TIDE AT COWES ABLES Metres Mean Springs 4-0 COWES TIDE T 3-0 Mean Neaps 2-0 Heights are in Times are referred metres above to LOW WATER Chart Datum at Portsmouth 1-0 4 3 2 1 LW 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 C.D. Hours before LW Hours after LW TIDAL LEVELS REFERRED TO DATUM OF SOUNDINGS Place Lat Long Heights in metres above datum Datum and remarks N W MHWS MHWN MLWN MLWS Cowes 50˚ 46’ 1˚ 18’ 4.4 3.7 1.9 0.9 2.59m below Ordnance Datum (Newlyn) Folly Inn 50˚ 44’ 1˚ 17’ 4.1 3.4 1.8 1.0 2.59m below Ordnance Datum (Newlyn) Newport 50˚ 42’ 1˚ 17’ 4.1 3.4 2.0 1.6 2.59m below Ordnance Datum (Newlyn) © Crown Copyright and/or database rights. Reproduced by permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office and the UK Hydrographic Office (www.ukho.gov.uk) 142 solenthandbook.com
COWES TIDE TABLES 2023-24 All times GMT. BST: +1 hour from 01:00 26 March - 02:00 29 October 2023 0 0 ENGLAND, SOUTH COAST, COWES. LAT 5046’N LONG 118’W ABLES TIME ZONE UT (GMT). TIMES & HEIGHTS OF HIGH & LOW WATER APRIL 2023 KEY: Full Moon MAY 2023 BST add New Moon one hour TIME m TIME m TIME m TIME m COWES TIDE T 143 solenthandbook.com
COWES TIDE TABLES 2023-24 All times GMT. BST: +1 hour from 01:00 26 March - 02:00 29 October 2023 0 0 ABLESENGLAND, SOUTH COAST, COWES. LAT 5046’N LONG 118’W TIME ZONE UT (GMT). TIMES & HEIGHTS OF HIGH & LOW WATER JUNE 2023 KEY: Full Moon JULY 2023 BST add New Moon one hour TIME m TIME m TIME m TIME m COWES TIDE T 144 solenthandbook.com
COWES TIDE TABLES 2023-24 All times GMT. BST: +1 hour from 01:00 26 March - 02:00 29 October 2023 0 0 ENGLAND, SOUTH COAST, COWES. LAT 5046’N LONG 118’W ABLES TIME ZONE UT (GMT). TIMES & HEIGHTS OF HIGH & LOW WATER AUG 2023 KEY: Full Moon SEPT 2023 BST add New Moon one hour TIME m TIME m TIME m TIME m COWES TIDE T 145 solenthandbook.com
COWES TIDE TABLES 2023-24 All times GMT. BST: +1 hour from 01:00 26 March - 02:00 29 October 2023 0 0 ABLESENGLAND, SOUTH COAST, COWES. LAT 5046’N LONG 118’W TIME ZONE UT (GMT). TIMES & HEIGHTS OF HIGH & LOW WATER OCT 2023 KEY: Full Moon NOV 2023 BST add New Moon one hour TIME m TIME m TIME m TIME m COWES TIDE T 146 solenthandbook.com
COWES TIDE TABLES 2023-24 All times GMT. BST: +1 hour from 01:00 31 March - 02:00 27 October 2024 0 0 ENGLAND, SOUTH COAST, COWES. LAT 5046’N LONG 118’W ABLES TIME ZONE UT (GMT). TIMES & HEIGHTS OF HIGH & LOW WATER DEC 2023 KEY: Full Moon JAN 2024 BST add New Moon one hour TIME m TIME m TIME m TIME m COWES TIDE T 147 solenthandbook.com
COWES TIDE TABLES 2023-24 All times GMT. BST: +1 hour from 01:00 31 March - 02:00 27 October 2024 0 0 ABLESENGLAND, SOUTH COAST, COWES. LAT 5046’N LONG 118’W TIME ZONE UT (GMT). TIMES & HEIGHTS OF HIGH & LOW WATER FEB 2024 KEY: Full Moon MARCH 2024 BST add New Moon one hour TIME m TIME m TIME m TIME m COWES TIDE T 148 solenthandbook.com
BOATING MADE SIMPLE A membership with Freedom Boat Club is the gateway to making the most of the boating life Get in touch @fbc.uk Tel: 023 9323 3255 Email: [email protected] freedomboatclub.co.uk Freedom Boat Club Trafalgar Wharf 14 Shamrock Way Portsmouth Hythe Marina Village PO6 4PX SO45 6DY 7193_Directory 3_Single page_1007193_Directory 3_Single page_100mm x 235mm 1_0 (aw) .indd 1mm x 235mm 1_0 (aw) .indd 1 26/01/2023 13:1226/01/2023 13:12
PORTSMOUTH TIDE TABLES 2023-24 MEAN SPRING AND NEAP CURVES Springs occur 2 days after New and Full Moon RISE & FALL OF THE TIDE AT PORTSMOUTH S345 ABLES MHWNMHWS MEAN RANGES h METRE. Springs 39· m 09 Neaps 19· m +5 . 08 h . TSMOUTH TIDE T +4 07 POR Mean Springs . h+3 06 Mean Neaps .F a c t o h 05 +2 .r 04 h . F a c t o F a c t o rr +1 03 Heights are in 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 metres above .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. Chart Datum 090 080 070 060 050 0 0 0 0 . 04 03 02 01 02 HW . 01 h–1 C.D. LW–6h–5h–4h–3h–2h–1hHW+1h+2h+3h+4h+5h h Hours before HWHours after HW –2 h–3 5 h–4 MHWS h –5 MHWN h–6 34 3LW MLWN 12 MLWS 12 m m HW Hts 0 CHART DATUM Hts 0 LW © Crown Copyright and/or database rights. Reproduced by permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office and the UK Hydrographic Office (www.ukho.gov.uk) 150 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH TIDE TABLES 2023-24 All times GMT. BST: +1 hour from 01:00 26 March - 02:00 29 October 2023 0 0 ENGLAND, SOUTH COAST, PORTSMOUTH. LAT 5048’N LONG 107’W ABLES TIME ZONE UT (GMT). TIMES & HEIGHTS OF HIGH & LOW WATER APRIL 2023 KEY: Full Moon MAY 2023 BST add New Moon one hour TIME m TIME m TIME m TIME m TSMOUTH TIDE T POR 151 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH TIDE TABLES 2023-24 All times GMT. BST: +1 hour from 01:00 26 March - 02:00 29 October 2023 0 0 ABLESENGLAND, SOUTH COAST, PORTSMOUTH. LAT 5048’N LONG 107’W TIME ZONE UT (GMT). TIMES & HEIGHTS OF HIGH & LOW WATER JUNE 2023 KEY: Full Moon JULY 2023 BST add New Moon one hour TIME m TIME m TIME m TIME m TSMOUTH TIDE T POR 152 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH TIDE TABLES 2023-24 All times GMT. BST: +1 hour from 01:00 26 March - 02:00 29 October 2023 0 0 ENGLAND, SOUTH COAST, PORTSMOUTH. LAT 5048’N LONG 107’W ABLES TIME ZONE UT (GMT). TIMES & HEIGHTS OF HIGH & LOW WATER AUG 2023 KEY: Full Moon SEPT 2023 BST add New Moon one hour TIME m TIME m TIME m TIME m TSMOUTH TIDE T POR 153 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH TIDE TABLES 2023-24 All times GMT. BST: +1 hour from 01:00 26 March - 02:00 29 October 2023 0 0 ABLESENGLAND, SOUTH COAST, PORTSMOUTH. LAT 5048’N LONG 107’W TIME ZONE UT (GMT). TIMES & HEIGHTS OF HIGH & LOW WATER OCT 2023 KEY: Full Moon NOV 2023 BST add New Moon one hour TIME m TIME m TIME m TIME m TSMOUTH TIDE T POR 154 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH TIDE TABLES 2023-24 All times GMT. BST: +1 hour from 01:00 31 March - 02:00 27 October 2024 0 0 ENGLAND, SOUTH COAST, PORTSMOUTH. LAT 5048’N LONG 107’W ABLES TIME ZONE UT (GMT). TIMES & HEIGHTS OF HIGH & LOW WATER DEC 2023 KEY: Full Moon JAN 2024 BST add New Moon one hour TIME m TIME m TIME m TIME m TSMOUTH TIDE T POR 155 solenthandbook.com
PORTSMOUTH TIDE TABLES 2023-24 All times GMT. BST: +1 hour from 01:00 31 March - 02:00 27 October 2024 0 0 ABLESENGLAND, SOUTH COAST, PORTSMOUTH. LAT 5048’N LONG 107’W TIME ZONE UT (GMT). TIMES & HEIGHTS OF HIGH & LOW WATER FEB 2024 KEY: Full Moon MARCH 2024 BST add New Moon one hour TIME m TIME m TIME m TIME m TSMOUTH TIDE T POR 156 solenthandbook.com
ADVERTISERS’ INDEX TISERS’ INDEX ADVER Rick Tomlinson Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics 21, 136 Hornet Services Sailing Club 141 Allspars 136 Hummingbird Travel 59 Ancasta International Boat Sales 7, 134 Hydroscand 134 Ancasta Yacht Services 21, 134 Island Canvas 140 Archipelago Expedition Yachts 163 Isle of Wight Distillery Back Cover Anchor Marine Surveys 137 Kemp Sails 150-156 Axopar London Group 39 Lake Yard 97 B A Yacht Services 136 LeeSan 141 Beaulieu River Buckler’s Hard Liferafts International 47 Yacht Harbour 53 Lymington Harbour Commissioners 89 Birdham Pool Waterside & Marina 137 Marchwood Yacht Club 141 Boat Buoys 134 Marine Management Organisation 29 Boatfolk 9 Medina Marine Services 135 Boat Transport Ltd 134 Norwest Marine Ltd 19 Britannia House 134 OneSails GBR (South) 140 C2 RIBS 140 Paul Newell Sails 140 Churchill Retirement Living 13 Paul Wyeth Marine Photography 139 CJ Wilks Marine Surveyors 137 Penguin Refrigeration 140 Clare Lallows 79, 134, 135, 136, 138 Phoenix Yacht Club 141 Cowes Boatyard 11, 137 Platinum Marine 43 Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club 75, 141 Poole Quay Boat Haven 95 Cowes Harbour Commission 55 Quay Lane Boatyard 105 Cowes Watertaxi 141 Quayside Marina 138, 161 Cowes Yacht Haven Richardsons Yacht Services 11, 135, 136, 137, 142-148 81, 134, 135, 136, 138 Craftinsure 57 Rick Tomlinson Photography 139 Deacons Marina 137 Rigit Masts & Rigging Ltd 2, 137 East Cowes Marina 137 Rowell Yachting Services 23 Eastlands Boatyard 49 Royal Air Force Yacht Club 141 eSail 141 Royal Clarence Waterside & Marina 138 First Spars 136, 157 Royal Solent Yacht Club 141 Folly Launch 141 Royal Southampton Yacht Club 43 Folly Moorings 138 Royal Victoria Yacht Club 129, 141 Folly Waterbus 141 Royal Yacht Squadron 141 Freedom Boat Club 149 Ryde Marina 115 Golden Arrow Marine 125 Salty Sailing 79, 134 Gosport Ferry 105 Sam Kurtul Marine Photography 139 Hamble Point Sailing School 141 SCRA 51 Hamble Point Yacht Charters 134, 136 Sea View Yacht Club 117, 141 Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust Secret Service Charters 134, 135 31Seriously Cool Events 135 Haslar Marina 138 Shepards Marina 138 158 solenthandbook.com
TISERS’ INDEX ADVER Ship Shape Bedding 141 TransEurope Marinas 60 Solent Events 135 UKSA 83 Solent Rib Charter 140 Venture Sailing 58 Southampton Dry Stack 138 Victoria Quay 99 South West Boat Transport 6, 134 Visit Isle of Wight 5, 62, 63, 67, 75, 92, Spinlock 35 114, 116, 127, 129, 131 SwellProUK 135 Ward Avenue B & B 134 TBS Boats, Hamble 109 Wight Fibre 4, 162 Tecsew 141 Winning Tides 133 The Old Fort, Seaview 33, 140 Wooden & Steel Ship Repairs 25 The Wellington Hotel 132, 159 Wroath Marine 135 Topsail Insurance 136 Yarmouth Harbour Commissioners 45, 138 Town Quay Marina 138 Open to non residents Rooms from £80 per night Belgrave Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 1JH. Telephone: +44 (0)1983 856 600 Email: [email protected] www.thewellington.co.uk 159 solenthandbook.com
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS There are many people to thank for their help with this thirteenth edition of the Solent Handbook & Directory. Firstly, we are very lucky to have the use of so many outstanding images from marine photographers Paul Wyeth, Rick Tomlinson and Sam Kurtul. A special thank you to everyone who contributed ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSACKNOWLEDGEMENTSphotographs. To all our advertisers we wish you a very successful season, and to our readers we say, do remember to tell people that you’ve seen their adverts in the Solent Handbook. Tidal data for Cowes and Portsmouth, and the background chart of the Racing Marks Map and Location Map are reproduced by permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office and the UK Hydrographic Office (ukho.gov.uk). We have received help of one sort or another from numerous others including: RYA, Xavier Baker (Mermaid Atlantic), Graham Sunderland, Simon Rowell, Amber Beard, Hampshire & Isle Of Wight Wildlife Trust, Isle of Wight Distillery, Marchwood Yacht Club, Richardsons Yacht Services, SCRA, Beaulieu Enterprises Ltd, Bembridge Harbour Authority, Chichester Harbour Conservancy, MDL Marinas, Emsworth Yacht Harbour, Thornham Marina, Castle Marinas, Premier Marinas, Haines Boatyard, The Hayling Yacht Company, Cowes Harbour Commission, Cowes Yacht Haven, Folly Moorings, Island Harbour, the Isle of Wight Council (iwight. com), WicorMarine Yacht Haven, Portsmouth Marine Engineering, Keyhaven River Warden, Langstone Harbour Board, Lymington Harbour Commissioners, Lymington Yacht Haven, Berthon, Newtown Harbour Master The National Trust, Poole Harbour Commissioners, Poole Quay Boat Haven, Lake Yard Marina, Salterns Marina, QHM Portsmouth, Gunwharf Quays Marina, Camber Dock, KB - Boatpark Dry Stack, River Hamble Harbour Authority, Stone Pier Yard, Ryde Town Council, Sea View Yacht Club, ABP Southampton, Town Quay Marina, the Royal Victoria Yacht Club, Yarmouth Harbour Master, Visit Isle of Wight (visitisleofwight.co.uk), Jan Ford, XOD Class Association, JOG, RORC, Island Sailing Club, Royal Southampton Yacht Club, Royal London Yacht Club, MSJ Events, Hayling Island Sailing Club, Royal Solent Yacht Club, Laura Levi, British Marine, Domus. Produced and published by Inspired Media. Printed by Bishops Printers, Portsmouth. While every care has been taken in compiling this book the publishers do not accept any liability or provide any guarantee that the information is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. Inspired Media and its employees and contractors have used their best efforts in preparing these pages and this publication. Inspired Media and its employees and contractors make no warranty of any kind, expressed or implied, with regard to the information supplied. Inspired Media and its employees and contractors shall not be liable in the event of incidental or consequential damages in connection with, or arising out of, the providing of the information offered here. If you are interested in advertising in next year’s Handbook please contact us on: t: 07773 276215 e: [email protected] solenthandbook.com 160 solenthandbook.com
Call to book your lift now! QUAYSIDE MARINA for all enquiries 02380 238 084 e: [email protected] w: www.quaysidemarina.co.uk
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