With UK Lockdown restrictions easing, we look at the top Solent destinations for you and your yacht this summer.
Newtown Creek, Isle of Wight. This river inlet is an absolute gem for small yacht and motor boat owners alike. The quiet backwater is part of the national trust, which has led it being immaculately preserved whilst other anchorages around the Solent have seen a contrasting commercialisation. This idyllic and peaceful spot offers great shallow and protected waters, once you navigate your way through the narrow channel into the creek. Whilst an experienced navigator will have no issues on staying off the beach whilst entering the creek, it’s worthwhile ensuring that your insurance policy is intact for any eventualities. Needless to say that we can help on this front with our quick quote form on our homepage.
Once in the creek, you’ll be surrounded by seals, beaches and tranquil waters to go for a swim or take the tender and paddleboards out to explore further.
Colwell Bay, Isle of Wight. This bay has beautiful views over the Western Solent. On most days you’ll have a panorama view from Hurst Castle, past Bournemouth to the Needles. The waters are shallow and protected from the strong flowing tide, adding great peace of mind if you want to head to shore to explore. If you plan early enough, then we recommend getting a table booked at “The Hut”, which has a great array of locally sourced dishes and seafood.
Lymington, Hampshire. On the mainland side of the western Solent, Lymington is renowned for being secluded in the New Forest. It often takes too long for most ‘land-based’ tourists to get to the river-side village, therefore making it an ideal destination by boat. Marina berthing is affordable and closely located from the mouth of the river, meaning you won’t spend ours getting to somewhere nice to moor up. The town centre has great visitor berth options, so a stroll to a local café or supermarket to pick up provisions can be done with ease.
Yarmouth, Isle of Wight. The fourth of our recommended locations is back on the Isle of Wight. This harbour is in a secluded village with Marina Berths or Mooring Buoys close to the seafront. Once on land, you’ll have endless woodland walks to explore, and a few great local shops for souvenirs or provisions. The George Hotel and Beach Club is a modern pub overlooking the Solent and protected from the elements, where we highly recommend a drink before you leave.
Beaulieu River, Hampshire. This natural river is famous for it’s snaking path past marshlands to the village of Beaulieu. It normally takes around 45 – 60 minutes to motor from the mouth of the river to the town centre, but is very worthwhile the trip when the conditions in the Solent aren’t 100%. Sailing and Motor Yacht owners can get up the river alike, however we would suggest making a pitstop at Bucklers Hard in Brockenhurst, where the tiny hamlet is home to the Beaulieu Estate, giving endless opportunities for exploring or sipping on a warm coffee by the river.
Cowes, Isle of Wight. This cannot be missed out from our suggestion list, as Cowes is the most accessible from almost all starting points. Located on the Northern tip of the Isle of Wight, the town is renowned for it’s vibrant bars and restaurants along the cobbled high street. There is something for everyone here, and a worthwhile destination to make the most of what the Solent has on offer. Short term berths start at £9 for 5 hours for ribs, and remain affordable compared to berths on the mainland side of the Solent.
Hamble-le-Rice, Hampshire. This river is notorious for being the home of yachting in the UK. Boat owners have always flocked to this small village to store their yachts, due to the proximity of London and easily accessible transport links from Southampton Airport and Train Station. The river itself is home to repairers, Brokers and Insurance Experts like ourselves, so do stop in to our offices if you are down this way. Whilst Hamble itself has a picturesque high street with local cafes Like ‘Jenny’s’ and sailor’s pubs like ‘The King and Queen’, the river also extends north past Swanwick to the country park of Manor Farm, which is a top tip when the weather isn’t 100% idea. Take your swimmers and paddleboards, and you won’t be disappointed.
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