Care needs to be taken when entering the Western Solent via the Needles Channel (western entrance) as in strong wind over tide conditions it is dangerous.
The eastern entrance to the Solent is navigable at all states of the tide.
When planning to use a berth in a marina, it is wise to call ahead, and you will then be allocated a berth number and advised which side to you will be mooring. Most marinas in this area do not have dedicated pontoons for visitors but slot them into available spaces.
Apart from marinas, the Solent has many mooring buoys and anchorages which can be used.
Until very recently there was no harbour on the southern shore of the IOW, but now there are breakwaters at Ventnor providing a small refuge.
Beaulieu River and Buckler's Hard
Take care to follow the entrance channel markers as the river runs parallel to the shore (with the seaward bank being covered at high tide) for about a mile before turning inland.
There is a charge for anchoring in the river. Mooring buoys are also available (limited availability), however more tend to be available beyond the marina. Wonderful for peace and isolation. Berthing masters patrol the river in dingies and collect fees.
The marina at Bucklers Hard has all facilities (see photo below by SY Suwena).
Last updated April 2016.
If you have information for this section, or feedback on businesses used, please let us know at editor@noonsite.com. We also welcome new information about businesses you have used (see Related Businesses).
As a free user of Noonsite you are restricted to viewing 3 country formalities per month. You have viewed 0 formalities this month – but can view the countries you have accessed to date as many times as you want.
Become a Noonsite Member and you can view unlimited formalities each month and enjoy additional member benefits. Membership fees help our team keep country formalities information up-to-date in support of cruisers worldwide.
Find out more about membership levels and Become a Noonsite Member.
