RIB Boating on the Solent: What Every Member Should Know

The Solent — the stretch of water between the Hampshire coast and the Isle of Wight — is one of the busiest and most rewarding cruising grounds in England. For RIB boaters, it offers sheltered passages, dramatic scenery, and some outstanding destinations within easy reach. Here’s what you need to know before you cast off.

Understanding Solent Tides

The Solent has a distinctive double high tide — a result of the Isle of Wight deflecting tidal flows around both ends of the channel simultaneously. This means high water can last for several hours, giving you a wider window than you might expect on a standard coastline.

That said, tidal streams in the Solent can run at up to 4 knots through the narrows, particularly around Hurst Narrows at the western entrance. Always check the tide tables and plan passages accordingly. Our team provides a weather and tide briefing at the start of every booking — use it.

Key Destinations from Our Marina

From Escape Boat Club’s base on the Hampshire coast, you’re well placed to reach:

• The Needles (Isle of Wight) — A 45-minute run on a calm day, with dramatic chalk stacks and a lighthouse. Best approached from the north to stay clear of the chalk ledge. Spectacular at sunset.
• Cowes (Isle of Wight) — The home of British sailing. A quick 20-minute crossing, with good anchor spots in the Roads if you want to stop and take in the atmosphere during Cowes Week.
• Chichester Harbour — A hidden gem to the east. The approach through the harbour entrance is straightforward in a RIB, and the sheltered channels are ideal for a relaxed half-day trip.
• Beaulieu River — West of Southampton Water, the river winds through the New Forest to Buckler’s Hard. Narrow and scenic — take it slowly and enjoy it.

Rules of the Road

The Solent is busy with commercial shipping, ferries, sailing vessels, and leisure craft. A few rules to keep in mind:

• Large vessels have right of way in the deep water channel. Cross the channel quickly and at right angles. Do not linger.
• Speed limits apply in harbours and near the shore. 6 knots is the standard limit in harbour approaches. Slow down well before the marina entrance.
• Keep a listening watch on VHF Channel 16 at all times. Southampton VTS broadcasts traffic updates regularly on Channel 12.

Your VHF SRC certificate means you’re qualified to use the radio — make sure you do.

Checking the Weather

RIBs are capable boats, but they’re not suitable for all conditions. Before your booking, check the Met Office inshore forecast for sea area Portland (coastal waters). We recommend:

• Wind: Force 4 or below for comfortable open-water passages. Force 3 or below for less experienced members.
• Visibility: At least 2 nautical miles.
• Swell: Under 1 metre in exposed areas.

If conditions deteriorate after you’ve departed, head for shelter early. The Isle of Wight’s north coast has several bays that offer good protection in a westerly.

Getting the Most from Your Membership

A few tips that experienced members have shared:

• Book early in the morning during summer. Afternoon sea breezes in the Solent can build quickly, particularly in July and August. An early start gives you the best of the day.
• Combine a Solent passage with a pub lunch. Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight has a pontoon and a selection of excellent pubs within walking distance. Same goes for Bembridge.
• Photograph the charter log in the boat. It records the vessel’s previous usage and any pre-existing marks. This protects you during the post-return inspection.

For more detail on booking, certifications, and what to expect on arrival, read our Getting Started guide or visit the FAQ.