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A cruising guide to the Solent

A penguin stands on the deck of a sailboat, cruising the Solent with its sail raised.

Sail, Moor, Eat
Discover the magic of the Solent

Sitting on the south coast of England, the Solent is that narrow strait of water between the UK mainland and, what we always think of as that quintessentially Enid Blyton of islands, the Isle of Wight, that sits charmingly 5 nautical miles off mainland England. It’s arguably the centre of boating in the UK!

Simplified illustrated map of the Isle of Wight and nearby towns, with labeled rivers and boats in the surrounding waters.

Formed around 7000 years ago, the Solent was reportedly named for the Solan Geese (now more commonly known as northern gannets) that once flocked here. Today, its famous tidal waters provide excellent sailing conditions for sailors of all levels. Naturally sheltered and with winds moderated by the shelter of the Isle of Wight, it offers the stuff of sailing dreams, with its ever-changing conditions; in Summer a gentle sea breeze in the morning can transform into a brisk south-westerly by the afternoon.

The Solent also features one of the world’s most unusual tidal patterns allowing the rather thrilling opportunity to experience four tides in a single day, and serves up a brilliant blend of history, stunning scenery, and a plethora of islands, estuaries, and rivers, all in close proximity and waiting to be explored by boat.

Home to world-famous annual sailing events such as Cowes Week and the Round the Island Race, sailors and spectators are attracted to the area from across the globe. Whether it’s high-intensity racing or leisurely cruising, the Solent provides enough of a kick for even the most experienced, as you navigate one of the busiest waterways in the world.

Black and white line drawing of a bird in flight, viewed from the side, as if cruising the Solent.

Chichester

To the east lies Chichester, a truly enchanting Cathedral city that has been a major market town dating all the way back to Roman times. It is overflowing with history and well worth a visit, but the harbour is somewhat removed from the city itself. It provides calm waters, stunning views, and is designated as a site of special scientific interest. If you berth here then take an energetic walk along the waterside towards the pretty village of Dell Quay and dine at the excellent 16^th Century pub, the Crown and Anchor, known for its spectacular views and excellent fish menu. When you are ready to cast off from the harbour, you should get a marvellous view of Chichester’s cathedral spire and pass by the lucky owners of the spectacular properties that overlook these waters. Don’t miss a glimpse of Birdham Pile, the entrance towards Birdham Marina, reputed to be the oldest marina in the country (visitors by prior arrangement only) and if you do have time, moor up on one of buoys at Itchenor and visit the delightful The Ship Inn for real ales and hearty food or take a water taxi across to Bosham Hoe and explore charming Bosham with its tea rooms, craft shops and another great pub The Anchor Bleu.

Black and white line drawing of a quiet seaside village with boats on the water and houses along the shoreline.

Leaving the harbour to enter back into the Solent means you often have to battle strong currents flowing in and out, so of course, you could extend your stay exploring the many creeks and inlets, having picnics off East Head beach, whilst you await the perfect moment.

Where you go next is one of the big joys of the Solent, you could spend anything from a weekend to 14 days or more navigating these waters and it is really just a matter of planning what adventure you seek. History enthusiasts will relish a journey around the mainland; visiting Portsmouth Historic Dockyard with HMS Victory, The Mary Rose and HMS Warrior proudly manning the wharf, exploring the many notable forts, and scheduling a stop off at the Maritime Museum in Beaulieu River. Equally if you just want the beach, the sea and the wind as your only companions then head over to the Isle of Wight, stay off the beaten track and trace your way up rivers and creeks to uncover the inner treasures of the South Coast.

Beaulieu River

Beautiful Beaulieu River is an idyllic stop off the Solent and an opportunity to visit the quite magical new forest with just a short walk. This quiet, calm, estuary of water allows you to anchor overnight in its privately owned waters that have been lovingly maintained by the Montagu family for over four centuries– reserve a mooring buoy from £10 or stay at the Bucklers Hard Yacht Harbour. Keep a watch out for restaurants that pop up along its banks throughout the year, offering the chance to dine in style by the water.

Take a 2.5 mile stroll along the river to the bucolic village of Beaulieu and stop by The Beaulieu Bakehouse Tea Rooms for a classic English afternoon tea or dine at Monty’s Inn (located in the Montagu Arms) for delicious home-made dishes in a cosy, easy going country pub setting. For a more knowledgeable outing, head upstream to reach historic Buckler’s Hard, an 18^th century shipbuilding village. The Master Builder’s House Hotel provides a glimpse into the past and also serves as a fine culinary destination. Moor at the marina and enjoy a meal at the hotel’s Riverside Restaurant, offering contemporary dishes inspired by the region.

Black-and-white illustration of riverside houses, trees, and a dock along a wavy waterway with a cloudy sky.

The recently refurbished Britannia Bar at Royal Southern Yacht Club spans the entire top floor of the club and boasts some of the best views on the South Coast. Stay for dinner and watch the sun go down over the Solent, especially spectacular in Autumn when the sky is ablaze with fiery pinks and golden reds.

The Maritime Museum is a worthy visit, covering the full breadth of England’s maritime history, most of which has been played out on these very shores – from Nelson’s warships built right here to the D-Day landings that launched off the nearby beaches.

Head further upstream on high tide to reach the heart of the new forest. Pack a picnic or for an extra special treat, give Emily Woodburn a call and pick up one of her delicious home-cooked meals through her “All In One Vessel” dining service, available for collection at the marina. Then venture out and meander through locations only accessible by boat.

A cartoon penguin cruising the Solent, holding a drink with a straw in its right flipper.

Going back downstream, towards the Solent, sits Gull Island, not just a home for the infamous chip-stealing birds, but also a haven for the rare migratory birds traveling from the Arctic to Africa. Here, you can also see the Mulberry Oyster Beds – no longer used for oyster cultivation but the site of the historic floating mulberry dock built for the D-Day landings, with the remnants still visible today.

Visit Gins, sadly not named for a local distillery, but once the domain of the monks of Beaulieu Abbey who used to keep their fishing boats here and now home to the Royal Southampton Yacht Club, where you can pick up an excellent gin and tonic. We recommend asking for the local Mermaid Gin (distilled on the Isle of Wight) and soak in the excellent facilities, locally sourced menu and stunning views.

The Hamble

The (River) Hamble is approximately 10km long, home to over 3,200 yachts, and has seven marinas along its route, making it both an excellent starting off point for exploring the Solent and a brilliant place to stop off for a break, or find pretty much any boating service you could think of.

Two people are relaxing on a motorboat in a lake, with one person leaning over the side. A duck is swimming nearby. Trees and clouds are in the background.

Once inhabited by pirates, vikings and monks the Hamble is now a hub to the much less violent (and potentially less pious) UK marine industry, it also hosts the world’s only maritime training centre at Warsash. Moor up on one of the many visitor pontoons along its banks for long leisurely lunches; the Hamble is well sheltered and can usually be accessed at all tides, providing excellent access to the Solent.

As you would expect, it is overflowing with all the facilities you could possibly need for your boat, but it is also a designated nature conservation area and is dotted with beautiful villages and stunning scenery. With a 6 knot through the water speed limit, its calm waters and beautiful surroundings frequently attract rowers, canoers and paddle boarders so be sure to stay alert and navigate safely.

If you want to explore more than just the water, then Port Hamble Marina (with its easily accessible fuel berth) is only a 5-minute walk from picturesque Hamble village known for its cobbled streets and fantastic array of cafes and restaurants. It’s an idyllic slice of English village life, but perhaps the biggest draw (for us) is its notoriety for being the home of The King & Queen – once awarded the world’s best yachting bar – its known far and wide by sailors as “The Rum Pub” and serves over 30 different varieties of the famous grog.

When it comes to marinas, based on location alone, Hamble Point Marina is a winner, sitting right at the mouth of the River Hamble and providing prime access to the Solent making it a very popular spot with competitive sailors. The Royal Southern Yacht Club also sits adjacent to the marina, in pride of place, and has a worthy claim as one of the world’s finest yachts clubs. We will leave you to judge that, but it is renowned for serving up a great breakfast with fabulous views.

Line drawing of waterside buildings with a modern structure, a docked boat, and a footbridge over the water.

Opposite the marina is possibly one of the finest named English towns, Warsash, derived from Warish Asse Feld after the donkeys that once grazed on the riverbanks, following the dissolutions of the monasteries. Here lies the famous maritime training academy and it is well worth a stop just to visit The Rising Sun pub for its panoramic river views – make sure you ask for a seat upstairs. If you are looking to stretch your sea legs, there is a beautiful walk along a graveled path that can take you from Warsash all the way round to Bursledon.

Sitting right on the quay, The Beach Hut is a great little café and a lovely casual spot for breakfast or lunch. If you are in the mood for some finer fare then The River Rat serves delicious food in a perfect sun trap garden.

A short journey further up the river is Mercury Yacht Harbour, a marina that will always have a special place in our hearts, as it was originally built by Sir Robin Knox Johnston. Tucked away in sheltered woodland, it is a scenic, peaceful spot that still allows easy access to the Solent, along with a bar and restaurant with waterfront views.

Black and white illustration of the Jolly Sailor pub beside a river with a boat docked in front and trees in the background.

In truth, all the marinas situated on the Hamble, have great facilities, wonderful views and decent bars and restaurants, but special mention must go to the wonderful Banana Wharf at Universal Marina, where you can enjoy 3 hours free mooring. It is a wonderfully lively place to hang out, eat, and drink right by the water. Bear in mind it is especially popular on a Friday night so pre-booking is advised.

Opposite Swanick Marina is the lovely waterside pub The Jolly Sailor and our top pick for a Sunday lunch. Their visitor pontoon is usually pretty easy to get on to; allowing you to sail straight up and experience their great roasts but what makes this truly special is (if you are lucky) that you can dine whilst sat directly on the river in their converted pontoon seating area.

River Hamble Country Park

Continuing under the M27 bridge brings you to the River Hamble Country Park, a haven for beautiful woodland walks and a popular pier for crabbing and diving. It is a fantastic spot to pause and cool off with a swim. Along the way, you should also come across Floaters cafe a much-loved floating cafe where you can get grab drinks and snacks as you pass through.

At the highest navigable point on the River Hamble lies the Horse and Jockey Pub in Curbridge. Be sure to check the tide times around Bursledon (latest tide times) as it’s only accessible at high water, or for a little less stress, moor up at Swanwick Marina, hire a SUP or kayak or take the dinghy.

Illustration of a penguin cruising the Solent on a paddleboard, holding a paddle and gliding over the water.

Black and white illustration of a coastal fort complex with surrounding cliffs, water, and several small boats in the distance.

Western Approach

If you’re approaching the Solent from the west, you’ll likely enter through Hurst Narrows, a channel nestled between Hurst Spit on the mainland and the Isle of Wight’s western tip. Overlooked by the historic Hurst Castle, this passage offers a chance to get close to the iconic Needles – majestic chalk stacks rising dramatically from the sea, along with their striking red-and-white-striped lighthouse.

This approach leads you into the western Solent, a scenic and popular entry point for sailors. Be mindful, though, as the waters can be turbulent when the ebb is running so for a gentler route, opt for the North Channel approach, located just north of the Shingles.

Lymington

For family fun, the lovely port town of Lymington, is worth a stop just to visit the open-air Lymington sea water baths; the water sports adventure playground features an on-water obstacle course and aqua jousting. After working up an appetite, take yourself off to the high street and indulge in a delicious burger at the Angel and Blue Pig.

Alternatively, for a more relaxed activity and the chance to spend a little more time on solid ground, then take yourself off on a jaunt along the Solent Way and explore a bit of the 60-mile coastal path, offering stunning views of England’s south coast.

The Isle of Wight

Officially the sunniest place in the UK, no trip on the Solent would be complete without heading to the famous white chalk cliffs of the Isle of Wight.

On the westernmost point, anchor up at Alum Bay for breathtaking views of the Needles and a little slice of island life; with its crystal-clear waters and spectacular multi-coloured sands you could be forgiven for thinking that you have landed somewhere a slightly more exotic. Catch the cable car to the top and explore the local theme park.

On the North-East Coast of the Isle of Wight, is Wootton creek – don’t be put off by the large car ferry terminal – push on to find an unspoilt and pretty tidal estuary. Home to the lovely Royal Victoria Yacht Club with its modern facilities and decent restaurant or enjoy a long lunch at the Fishbourne Inn. Tender further up but be warned the creek does dry out so plan carefully. While you’re there, hop on the steam train at Wootton Station or tour the local monastery Quarr Abbey and immerse yourself in its abundant local heritage.

Simple black and white line drawing of a crab with its claws raised, cruising the Solent with legs extended.

Whitecliff Bay in Bembridge is another popular anchorage, moor out of the prevailing winds and admire the white cliffs of Culver. On sunny days, the beach and crystal-clear waters provide the perfect opportunity for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the rock pools.

Alternatively, take a trip to Bembridge Harbour where it’s justified to purely visit The Best Dressed Crab, a floating café that serves up the freshest catch of crab, lobsters and local Bembridge prawns landed straight from the boat.

For a more secluded experience, navigate to Hamstead Point and take the narrow entrance three-quarters of a mile east. Be mindful of the cross tides as you head up Newton River and anchor in Clamerkin Lake (the central moorings can get very crowded) , stroll along the beach to Hamstead Farm and soak in the incredible views across the Solent.

If anywhere is a yachtie’s mecca then of course, it has to be Cowes and no trip to the Solent would be complete without a visit to its famous sailing shores. Its high street is awash with all the nautical clothing shops and restaurants that you would expect from this sailing playground. One of our favourites is Murray’s Seafood Restaurant located directly on the High Street where you can taste locally caught fresh seafood including oysters, squid and smoked mackerel.

Cowes Yacht Haven sits at the heart of the town but pre-booking is essential. There’s also Shepards Marina, another popular option nearby, offering a slightly more relaxed setting while still being close to the town.

Make sure you take a walk along Cowes parade for panoramic views over the Solent – the best spot in town to watch the sailing – and don’t miss a stop at the Cabin on the Green for your obligatory daily ice-cream – you are by the seaside after all. If you’re looking to explore beyond Cowes, the town offers excellent bus links and taxis to help you discover the many nooks and crannies of the Isle of Wight.

Black and white illustration of four people cruising the Solent on a sailboat named

On the North-West Coast of the Isle of Wight lies the charming old fishing village Yarmouth, which literally translates to “at the mouth of the river Yar”. The berths and moorings in Yarmouth harbour are highly sought after so again pre-book or arrive early. If you belong to an affiliated yacht club, you can also berth at the Royal Solent Yacht Club.

Black and white illustration of a seated dog with one dark ear, a dark patch over one eye, and a heart-shaped nose marking.

Take a scenic picnic, outside Yarmouth Castle, Henry VIII’s last coastal defence or to dine out, The Terrace is renowned for its fresh fish and sea views. Alternatively, On the Rocks, has been a stalwart of Yarmouth for two decades. It offers locally sourced meat and fish and a unique hot stone tabletop cooking experience. Surf and Turf is the obvious choice here, all served with bottomless fries!

One of the most unique dining spots in the Isle of Wight, Off the Rails is set along the old railway line in the former Yarmouth train station. Overlooking the outstanding natural beauty of the Yarmouth Marshes and Mill Cop, it offers an inventive menu of eclectic fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it also has a fantastic menu for dogs. This is no ordinary dog’s dinner though, the food is clearly crafted with expertise and love and is more than worth the 5-minute walk from the waterfront.

If you are not planning to navigate any further by boat then Yarmouth is a wonderful base to explore the rest of the island. Hike the Heritage Coast Road for magnificent views, or The Needles Breezer Open Top Bus tour is a very pleasant way to spend an afternoon. For the more adventurous you can hire two wheels at the Wight Cycle Centre near the old Yarmouth train station and explore the River Yar or take it to the extreme with a 62-mile sweep around the whole island

For those seeking a peaceful escape and the chance to experience one of the best Solent anchorages then head to the North Coast to visit the tranquil Newton Creek. This serene spot invites you to slow down and enjoy simpler pastimes; with no onshore facilities (not even a pub or shop), it is surrounded by nature reserves, offers near-perfect shelter from all directions and boasts a sandy beach. Once a former salt producer and now owned by the National Trust, it was saved from being developed into a power station, allowing its relatively untouched beauty to teem with wildlife. You can take a 4 mile walk around the estuary and enjoy the salt marshes that now shelter rare butterflies, birds and if you are lucky, glimpses of one of the last remaining habitats of the red squirrel. A word to the wise; avoid weekends and peak holidays where everyone else is also looking to escape.

Black and white drawing of a coastal scene with a lighthouse, rocky cliffs, and calm sea under a partly cloudy sky.

No nautical foodie’s trip to the Isle of Wight could possibly be complete without a visit to the legendary ‘The Hut’ on Colwell Bay. Situated on the northwest coast of the Isle of Wight, simply drop anchor north of the white buoys and their team will come out to collect you. Part of what makes it so special, is its laid-back vibe, as long as you throw on a cover up you can come straight from the beach and enjoy the delicious platters of Fruits De Mer, fine wines and uninterrupted ocean views. When the sun is shining it rivals the best of beachside dining and is often the stuff of our child-free daydreams – although children and dogs are welcome!

Of course, the good life is never quite that easy to achieve – when eating is this agreeable the reservation list fills up several months in advance for weekends and peak Summer – but don’t let that put you off entirely as they also run a waiting list so be sure to check back for any last-minute cancellations.

Of course, we could carry on for thousands of words, waxing lyrical about the many delights of the Solent, from its nautical pub crawls, seafood feasts, breathtaking sunsets to its rich maritime history, but our best advice is to get out there and experience it for yourself. This iconic sailing coastline, with its ever-changing tides and beautiful vistas, offers something for everyone – whether you’re an experienced sailor or a first-time cruiser. With countless islets, estuaries, and secluded coves, there are always new corners to explore, ensuring that on any trip here you’ll always find something to capture your imagination. So, chart your course, set sail, and let the true magic of the Solent unfold around you.

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