The River Hamble

Internationally famous for its first-class sailing amenities and the only maritime training centre of its kind in the world based at Warsash, the River Hamble is also renowned for the excellence of its servicing and repair facilities offered by its wealth of long-established marinas and boatyards. Whether your interest is racing, power-boating or blue water cruising, the Hamble has all the facilities you need with its deep water and easy transit to the Solent at all states of tide.

Image Credit: River Hamble Harbour Authority

Popular with locals and visitors alike, the idyllic River Hamble is perfect for weekend excursions or as a departure point for destinations further afield and regularly attracts competitors preparing for Cowes Week and the Round the Island Race. local yacht clubs host the Hamble Winter Series, Warsash Spring Series, Bursledon Regatta, National, European and World championships, all of which attract competitors and visitors alike.  

The river is not just a sailing Mecca, the Hamble is both nationally and internationally regarded for its importance to nature conservation with some areas of the river designated under local, national, European and international law. Riverside walks or simply watching the world go by are popular pastimes throughout the river, including rich pickings for avid birdwatchers. It also offers a safe location for small craft recreational sports, such as rowing, canoeing and kayaking along with the very popular, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). During the summer season, the river is a constant hive of activity and therefore care should always be taken. 

Access to the River Hamble is available at all states of tide, although waves can build up at the entrance in a south-westerly wind combined with an ebb tide. By day, from the vicinity of Hamble Point Buoy, follow the main channel which is clearly marked with lit port and starboard-hand piles. From the Warsash Maritime Academy Jetty, the starboard side of the channel is clearly marked by four lit starboard-hand buoys. A ‘preferred channel’ mark (pile B1) is at the southern end of the first pontoon encountered; leave it to port for the main channel. Thereafter, the main channel is clearly marked with lit port and starboard-hand piles. 

At night, follow Hamble Common Directional light on a bearing of 352°, then Sailing Club Directional light on a bearing of 029° and then follow the lit buoys and piles as above. Depths obviously vary. Most marinas are dredged to 1.5m. Depths in the main channel vary from at least 4m in the approaches, to 2.2m at Bursledon Bend. Tidal streams can be very strong, particularly on the ebb. Mariners are advised to keep to the centre line or to starboard of the centre line and not too close to the entrance piles, especially at low water.

VISITOR MOORINGS

Walk ashore facilities are available for visitors at the Warsash Harbour Master’s jetty and the public Jetty at Hamble. There are also black water pump-out facilities at the Warsash jetty and at Premier Marina Swanwick (VHF 80). Our continuous mid-stream visitor’s pontoon (between the blue painted piles designated B1 to B6) offer a generous capacity of 220m and can also be reserved for temporary Winter Berthing opportunities between October and March. For berth allocation, visitors should call the Harbour Master on VHF Ch 68 (‘Hamble Harbour Radio’) or by phoning the office on 01489 576387 – the number is displayed on signage at all visitor pontoons. 

There is a 6 knot ‘through the water’ speed limit from No. 1 pile and wash limit on all vessels whilst within the River Hamble harbour limits. No anchoring is permitted in the river, except in the Upper Hamble, beyond the River Hamble Country Park Jetty. Anchored boats must not be left unattended. Access to the Upper Hamble requires transiting under three bridges, the lowest of which (A27) has a clearance of 3.5 metres at Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT). 

Visitors to the river should be aware that large numbers of paddle boarders (SUP) and other small craft users, can be present throughout the season, most notably in the summer months. larger vessels navigating between Swanwick bend and the Upper Hamble should keep a sharp look out and give way to small paddle craft who will be passing along a designated safety route marked throughout the river to encourage users to keep clear of the main channel. 

Use of Midstream Visitors Pontoon B1- B6 For Training

In its commitment to promoting river safety through its obligation to the Port Marine Safety Code, the River Hamble Harbour Authority recognises and encourages the wide range of commercial maritime training activities provided by competent qualified sailing/boating organisations and in doing so, has designated an area of its mid-stream visitor pontoons for mooring practice (subject to available space)

• Vessels must contact the Harbour Office for permission prior to commencing.

• 30 mins free period after which a short stay fee applies (see rates).

• Vessels/Crew must be engaged in practical mooring practice manoeuvres only (coming alongside) known as ‘touch & go’

• Vessels must monitor channel VHF68 at all times during training. For full guidance please contact the Harbour Office or visit the website.

Contact: River Hamble Harbour Authority, Harbour Office, Shore Road, Warsash, SO31 9FR. Tel: 01489 576387. Email: harbour.office@hants.gov.uk or visit our website at https://www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/hambleharbour

Marinas may be contacted on VHF Ch 80 for berth availability

 

Image Credit: River Hamble Harbour Authority

Hamble Point Marina 

Image Credit: MDL Marinas Hamble Point Marina

Hamble Point Marina is hard to beat for its location alone, right at the mouth of the River Hamble with easy access to the world famous waters of the Solent. This makes the marina a magnet for competitive sailors from around the globe, and a favourite with racers and cruising yachtsmen alike. The 230-berth marina itself offers extensive shoreside facilities. Besides a popular bar and restaurant, Hamble Point also has the best range of new and used boats for sale on the South Coast.

When approaching Hamble Point, please keep clear of commercial shipping in Southampton Water. From abeam Calshot Castle head for Hamble Pt South Cardinal buoy at the mouth of the well-marked river. From here the channel is narrow between drying banks, so be sure to leave the No 2 East Cardinal beacon to port. At night two directional lights lead to Warsash Jetty on the east bank. The entrance to Hamble Point Marina is 500m further north on the west bank.

Hamble Point has 230 berths (max LOA: 30m) and 137 dry stack berths (max LOA: 10m). There is boat lifting and storage ashore; a 75-ton boat hoist; a 4-ton crane for masts / engines; slipway; boat repairs; electronic services; storage ashore; bar and restaurant; yacht brokerage; dry sailing facility; trailer sailing; electric vehicle charging; 24/7 self-storage facilities; and MDL Wi-Fi

Contact: Hamble Point Marina, School Lane, Hamble, Southampton, SO31 4NB. Tel: 023 8045 2464. VHF Ch 80. Website: hamblepointmarina.co.uk

Port Hamble Marina

Credit Image: MDL Marinas Port Hamble Marina

Port Hamble Marina is on the River Hamble, right in the heart of the South Coast’s sailing scene. With thousands of visitors every year, this busy marina is popular with racing enthusiasts and cruising vessels looking for an exciting atmosphere. The picturesque Hamble Village, with its inviting pubs and restaurants, is only a few minutes’ walk away. Our easily accessible fuel berth sells both petrol and diesel seven days a week, with late-night opening in the summer.

When approaching Port Hamble, please keep clear of commercial shipping in Southampton Water. From abeam Calshot Castle head for Hamble Pt South Cardinal buoy at the mouth of the well-marked river. From here the channel is narrow between drying banks, so be sure to leave the No 2 East Cardinal beacon to port. At night two directional lights lead to Warsash Jetty on the east bank. Port Hamble Marina is about 0.75 miles north, the second marina on the west bank.

Port Hamble has 310 berths, max LOA: 24m; fuel (petrol/diesel) seven days a week; boat lifting and storage ashore at Hamble Point Marina; electronic services; chandlery; laundry facilities; bar and restaurant; electric vehicle charging; yacht brokerage; 24/7 self-storage facilities; and MDL Wi-Fi.

Contact: Port Hamble Marina, Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton, SO31 4QD. Tel: 023 8045 2741. Website: porthamblemarina.co.uk. VHF Channel 80.

Mercury Yacht Harbour and Holiday Park

Credit Image: MDL Marinas Mercury Yacht Harbour and Holiday Park

Mercury Yacht Harbour and Holiday Park is set in a sheltered wooded site where the shallow waters of Badnam Creek join the River Hamble. Originally built by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the marina offers berthing for 360 boats and enjoys deep water at all states of tide. Among its excellent facilities are a bar and restaurant with waterfront views.

The marina is just a 20-minute walk from Hamble village. It is a scenic, peaceful spot, which still provides easy access to Southampton Water and the Solent. There are plenty of other tranquil anchorages to visit, such as Newtown Creek on the Isle of Wight or the pretty Beaulieu River.

When approaching the marina, please keep clear of commercial shipping in Southampton Water. From abeam Calshot Castle head for Hamble Pt South Cardinal buoy at the mouth of the well-marked river. From here the channel is narrow between drying banks, so be sure to leave the No 2 East Cardinal beacon to port.

At night two directional lights lead to Warsash Jetty on the east bank. About 1.35 miles north, Mercury Yacht Harbour and Holiday Park is the third marina on the west bank.

Mercury Yacht Harbour and Holiday Park has 360 berths, max LOA: 24m; boat lifting and storage ashore at Hamble Point Marina; electronic services; towing; laundry facilities; bar and restaurant; yacht brokerage; sailing schools; yacht charters; electric vehicle charging; 24/7 self-storage facilities, holiday accommodation and MDL Wi-Fi.

Contact: Mercury Yacht Harbour and Holiday Park, Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton, SO31 4HQ. Tel: 023 8045 5994. Website: mercuryyachtharbour.co.uk VHF Channel 80.

Deacons Marina & Yard 

Credit Image: Boatfolk Deacons Marina & Yard

Deacons Marina and boatyard is conveniently located just minutes from the M27 and enjoys a picturesque outlook over the river Hamble. Staffed by a friendly and welcoming team, the Marina is full service with walk ashore pontoons, power and water. Boasting great on-site facilities including ample car parking, washrooms, free Wi-Fi and a range of great services including an excellent bistro, comprehensive chandlery and dedicated boat sales office boatpoint.  

The boatyard at Deacons Marina provides 150 spaces ashore for boats up to 48 feet, and access to a state-of-the-art boatcare service centre for purchasing part and engines, as well adedicated boatcare team who can handle any task from painting and polishing, to keel removal, Coppercoat applications or rudder rebuilds. You will also find expert riggers and electronics specialists on-site, giving you everything you need to take care of your boat in one convenient location. Limited visitor spaces are available so please call ahead to book.  

Contact: Deacons Marina, Bridge Road, Bursledon, Southampton SO31 8AZ. Tel: 02380 402253. Email: deacons@boatfolk.co.uk Website: boatfolk.co.uk/deacons-marina-southampton 

Universal Marina 

Credit: Premier Marinas- Universal Marina

Beautifully located on the east bank of the Hamble River and surrounded by woods and salt marsh, Universal Marina is the newest addition to the Premier Marinas family. Offering 24-hour river access, it’s an ideal base to explore the Solent. Offering a full-service boatyard with 75-tonne hoist, the river’s largest dry stack facility and dedicated berth holder facilities. Enjoy being amongst nature in this peaceful marina or stroll along the riverbank towards Warsash or Swanwick. There is a vibrant restaurant, a bustling café and a selection of marine services to hand. 

Contact: Premier Universal Marina, Crableck Lane, Sarisbury Green, Southampton, SO31 7ZN.  Tel: 01489 574272.  Email: universal@premiermarinas.compremiermarinas.com VHF: Ch80 

Swanwick Marina

Credit Image: Premier Marinas Swanwick Marina

Premier’s Swanwick Marina is situated on the picturesque eastern bank of the River Hamble, approximately two miles upriver from the entrance to Southampton Water. If you’re planning to visit in the summer, please contact reception by phone or VHF Ch. 80 for berth availability and directions. 

At the marina you can look forward to brand new pontoons with electricity and water; a modern fully serviced boatyard with a wide range of marine services and a dry stack; luxury facilities, launderette and free Wi-Fi. There is also 24-hour security, berth holder car parking, a self-serve fuel berth with a high-speed pump and pump out. A pleasant onsite café, kayak and SUP hire. 

Contact: Swanwick Marina, Swanwick, Southampton, SO31 1ZL. Tel: 01489 884081. Website: premiermarinas.com/Swanwick 

Stone Pier Yard

Credit Image: Stone Pier Boat Yard 

Stone Pier Boat Yard – Marina and boatyard at Stone Pier in Warsash, close to the mouth of the Hamble River. Services include craning, hard standing and covered storage, berthing and dry-sailing.

Contact: R K Marine, Stone Pier Boatyard, Shore Road, Warsash, Southampton, SO31 9FR. Tel: 01489 564914. Website: www.rkmarine.co.uk

Please note, information in this publication is to be used as a guide only and not for navigation.