The Solent is a beautiful strait located in the protected waters between the South of England and the Isle of Wight. There are many lovely spots for anchoring where you will find both amazing scenery and rich maritime history. In this post, I'll take you through some of the best places to anchor in the Solent. We'll jump into details about what makes them great, some navigation tips and things to see whilst you're there.
Not all anchorages are the same. This is especially true in the Solent, where the tides can be very powerful. Many things can make an anchorage great. The most important is how much it protects you from the weather.
The Solent has strong tidal streams and a large tidal range. A good anchorage will give you relief from these conditions. You should think about the prevailing winds and where they come from when picking an anchorage. The best spots will offer shelter. This helps to ensure a calm and nice stay.
Besides protection, the top anchorages in the Solent are also offer some spectacular views. Often close to tranquil pieces of land. Plus, they are often rich in natural beauty with lots of wildlife to spot too.
First up we have Newtown Creek, a hidden treasure on the northwestern coast of the Isle of Wight. This calm spot is famous for its beautiful nature, rich wildlife, and peaceful vibe. It is a perfect place for anyone looking to relax and enjoy some quiet time.
If you love watching birds or just want to rest in nature, Newtown Creek is a great escape from the rush of daily life.
One great thing about anchoring in Newtown Creek is that you can explore the area around it. A quick dinghy ride can take you to many places, each with its own special charm.
If you want to see local life, visit the nearby town of Yarmouth. You'll find cozy pubs and little shops there. Here are some more fun things to do:
In recent years, pop-up cafes have started showing up, adding more charm to Newtown Creek.
For more information about anchoring here, check out our places to visit page on Newtown Creek.
Along the northeastern shores of the Isle of Wight, you will find Priory Bay. This quiet (generally) spot is often missed by tourists. It feels like a hidden paradise with a beautiful sandy beach that is far from daily life.
Whilst it can be busy in the summer months, if you want to see untouched beauty, Priory Bay is a perfect choice. The calm water and lovely views make it a great place for anyone looking for a peaceful anchorage. Just be aware that large vessels are often passing by so can cause some swell at times.
Priory Bay is not just beautiful; it is a great location for a variety of activities. Whether you love to explore, enjoy watersports, or want a peaceful getaway, Priory Bay has something for you.
Overnight stops are usually pretty relaxing but again, from early in the moring you may get some swell as large vessel traffic on the solent starts to build up. In terms of attractions, here are some things to do whilst you're there:
For more information about anchoring here, check out our places to visit page on Priory Bay Beach.