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Solent Anchorages 

Introduction

Let us share with you some of our favourite places to visit and anchor in the solent. The Solent is one of the worlds sailing meccas and on a sunny weekend, with a little breeze in the air you will see all manor of boats enjoying the water, from kite surfers to super yachts and everything in-between.

sailing towards solent anchorages

Beaulieu River Anchorage

Beaulieu River is a picturesque anchorage in the Solent with the option to drop the hook shortly after entering the river, just off of your port side between pillions 20-22. This idyllic place is a haven to all manor of wildlife and a truly enchanting spot. 

To find out more about our stay in this anchorage then check out our Beaulieu River anchorage page.

Beaulieu River Solent Anchorage

Priory Bay Anchorage 

Priory Bay can be found just off of the north east of the Isle of Wight, in the Solent. It's a quiet spot which offers a truly remarkable sun set with a short dingy ride to a sandy beach.

To find our more about our time in this anchorage then be sure to check out our Priory Bay anchorage page.

Priory Bay solent anchorage

Netley Abbey

Netley Abbey can be found in Solent Water itself and offered a great, free little stop for the evening. It's very quiet here in terms of other boats being anchored but there can be a fair amount of boat traffic passing by in the day and creating some wake. 

If you'd like to find out more about our stop here then be sure to check out our Netley Abbey page.

Osborne Bay

Netley Abbey Solent Anchrage

Osborne Bay is another free anchorage in the Solent although it's mostly used as a day time, lunch stop more so than it is an over night anchorage. We've enjoyed many an afternoon in Osborne Bay back when we were learning how to sail, but sadly there is no landing allowed on the beach, as it's private, which is tricky when you need to get your dog to shore.

We of course have a video of our time in Osborne Bay anchorage for you to watch too, if you'd like to see how we got on there.

 

 

anchored in osborne bay in the solent

Our Mapped Out Anchorage Stops

The map below contains clickable links (anchor pictures) for all of the anchorages we've stayed in not only in the solent, but also some great spots in Dorset too. Be sure to check them all out to get a feel for these places before potentially going to explore some of them yourself.

 

 

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East Dorset
& The Solent

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Check Out Our Humble Floating Home 

Common Questions Regarding Anchoring in the Solent:

1) Where do you anchor in the Solent?

 

Popular anchorages in the Solent include Beaulieu River, Osborne Bay, Priory Bay, and Netley Abbey. However, there are several other suitable anchorages depending on your preferences and navigational considerations.

2) Where is C Anchorage in the Solent?

 

C Anchorage in the Solent is located in the vicinity of Cowes, typically closer to the western side of the Medina River. It provides a convenient spot for anchoring near Cowes and accessing nearby amenities.

 

3) How do I choose an anchorage?

 

When choosing an anchorage, consider factors such as weather conditions, tidal range, depth, shelter from wind and waves, holding ground (the seabed's ability to hold the anchor), proximity to facilities, and any local regulations or restrictions.

4) Can you just drop anchor anywhere?

 

While anchoring provides flexibility, it's important to anchor in designated areas or suitable locations that are safe, legal, and considerate to other boaters and the marine environment. Anchoring in prohibited or sensitive areas should be avoided.

5) How do you know where to drop anchor?

 

Determine a suitable anchoring spot by using navigational charts, electronic charting systems, and local knowledge. Look for areas with sufficient depth, good holding ground, protection from prevailing winds and currents, and enough space to swing with changing tides.

6) Where should you avoid anchoring?

 

Avoid anchoring in shipping channels, restricted areas, or areas with underwater obstructions. Respect any local anchoring restrictions, conservation areas, and sensitive habitats. Also, consider avoiding congested areas or places that may interfere with other vessels' navigation.

Please note that it's always important to consult official navigational resources, local charts, and guidelines provided by authorities to ensure safe and responsible anchoring practices in the Solent or any other waterway.

 

 

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