Yacht Charter Solent
Anyone owning a boat knows that apart from the cost of purchase, annual ongoing fees for moorings, repairs and general upkeep are considerable. Add to that the, in some cases, significant depreciation and one can understand why for most people, the option of chartering remains the only viable way to spend time afloat. Rates vary according to the size and specification but, spread amongst a few friends, a weekend aboard a bang up to date boat, fully loaded with the latest equipment all ready for you to step aboard, can be enjoyed for less than the cost of a new set of oilskins.
Whilst boats can be had all over the UK is isn’t hard to understand why Solent yacht charter remains so popular. Still the Mecca for yachties, this area of the south coast has so much to offer. Cowes may be the epicentre but nearby, other, more serene moorings can be found that still offer superb cruising options for the charter skipper. Bucklers Hard on the Beaulieu River is only some 45 minutes upstream from Cowes and here you will enjoy a less frenetic pace but still have the benefit of all the modern marina facilities. Personally, I find that mooring at these upstream locations gives each voyage a natural start and finish, allowing time to get everything shipshape in a relaxed environment rather than being pitched straight into the open sea or before arriving at the marina after a challenging sail.
Cruising options are limited only by time and tide but Newtown Creek, Cowes and Yarmouth are all within a morning’s sail. Whilst the Isle of Wight is a natural choice for a day sail, weekenders may choose to head off to Poole, Weymouth or Portsmouth. The Channels Islands and the north coast of France make an ideal long weekend destination.
One option often overlooked by yacht owners is the need to address the increasing number of family groups wanting to charter. Child friendly boats are hard to come by so look for one with adequate safety features, it will make for a more relaxing trip. One such boat that I came across, Ameley, a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 40.3 ticked all the boxes. Added to a top specification, twin wheel positions add to the helmsman’s comfort and all round netting should ensure that any young children remain on board. Whether bareboat or skippered, yacht charter from one of the many marinas across Hampshire offers plenty of options.
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