Destination · May – September
England's south coast, from the Solent to the Channel Islands.
The destination
The Solent is a compact cruising ground, with Hampshire to the north and the Isle of Wight to the south. Short passages connect harbours, rivers and anchorages, making it well suited to day and weekend charters. Lymington combines a working harbour with the New Forest, while the Beaulieu River offers quieter cruising inland to Buckler's Hard. Across the water, Cowes is the centre of the Solent's sailing scene, particularly during Cowes Week when the harbour comes alive. Further west, Colwell Bay is home to The Hut, one of the Solent's best-known stops. Set directly on the waterfront, it has a relaxed but lively atmosphere, with impressive lunches, good seafood and tables looking out across the water. Arriving by boat and coming ashore by tender is part of the experience. The distances are short, so a day can take in several different settings without spending hours underway. It is an easy escape from London, with the pace and atmosphere changing during the major sailing events.
Along the coast
Discover the Solent from a different perspective, where sheltered anchorages, historic harbour towns and beautiful stretches of coastline offer an exceptional setting for a private yacht charter. From the peaceful Beaulieu River to the sailing heritage of Cowes and the waterfront restaurants of the Isle of Wight, this itinerary combines relaxed cruising with some of the South Coast's most memorable experiences.
2 – 3 days
01
Your journey begins at Ocean Village Marina in Southampton, where you'll step aboard and settle in before heading out towards the Solent. Leave the city behind as the water opens up, with the Isle of Wight ahead and some of the South Coast's most beautiful anchorages waiting to be explored.
02
Cruise into the peaceful Beaulieu River, winding through the heart of the New Forest's unspoilt landscape. With its wooded banks, quiet moorings and historic Buckler's Hard, this is somewhere to slow down and enjoy a different pace. Head ashore for a leisurely walk or simply take in the surroundings from the yacht.
03
Arrive in the charming harbour town of Yarmouth, on the western side of the Isle of Wight. Wander its narrow streets, explore independent shops and enjoy lunch overlooking the harbour. For something particularly special, nearby Colwell Bay is home to The Hut, one of the Island's most sought-after waterfront restaurants, where arriving by boat is all part of the experience.
04
Famous for its sailing heritage, Cowes has a character all of its own. Step ashore to explore the town's independent shops, waterfront restaurants and lively marina atmosphere. Whether visiting during Cowes Week or enjoying a quieter afternoon, it's a wonderful place to experience the Island's maritime culture.
05
Finish with a relaxed afternoon at anchor in Osborne Bay, one of the Solent's favourite sheltered spots in suitable conditions. Enjoy a swim when conditions allow, take lunch on deck or simply settle back with a drink as the boats pass in the distance. With views towards the historic Osborne estate, it's an idyllic setting to enjoy the final hours on the water.
Available here
Listings coming soon
We do not have any published yachts for Solent yet. Contact us to enquire and we will source a suitable vessel for your dates.
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