Portsmouth to Hampshire by boat

Pilotage Plan: Portsmouth, GB to Hampshire, GB

Route Overview

This pilotage plan takes you on a picturesque journey from Portsmouth to Hampshire, covering a distance of approximately 10 nautical miles. This route is especially suitable for day cruisers and experienced boaters looking to explore local waters while enjoying scenic views and charming coastal towns.

Departure from Portsmouth

Starting from Portsmouth's historic harbor, the vibrant naval town, significant for its shipbuilding heritage, offers a plethora of attractions. Before setting sail, consider visiting the iconic HMS Victory or the Mary Rose Museum for a taste of maritime history. Make sure to check the weather conditions and tide timings, as Portsmouth can experience varying tidal flows which can affect your departure.

Notable Aids to Navigation

As you navigate out of Portsmouth Harbour, keep an eye on the following navigational aids:

• Portsmouth Harbour Light: A crucial marker, this leads you safely out of the harbor.
• Forton Lake: Watch for the sandbanks, particularly at low tide, as they can present hidden hazards.
• The Entrance Buoys: Pay attention to the marked entrance buoys as you exit into the Solent.

En Route to Hampshire

As you proceed from Portsmouth to Hampshire, the route generally lies across the busy waters of the Solent. It can be lively with commercial and leisure traffic, so maintaining a proper lookout is critical.

1. Approaching Gilkicker Point: As you pass Gilkicker Point, you'll notice the impressive views of the Solent. Be particularly cautious of the tidal streams here, which can be strong. This point marks a vital turning point; it can provide some initial shelter if the weather turns.

2. Navigating Past Stokes Bay: Stokes Bay is a fabulous stopping point—not only for its lovely beach but also provides shelter in case of inclement weather. Here, you can stretch your legs ashore or enjoy a quick picnic on the beach; however, be mindful of the swift currents, especially near the shore.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

While cruising, you may want to take a moment to appreciate:
• The Solent: A busy waterway full of spectacular views. Keep an eye out for sailing competitions or passing ships, making it a lively stretch of water.
• Littlehamton and Southsea: As you approach Hampshire, the shoreline offers delightful views of these charming towns. A brief stop to roam the seafront could be a refreshing break.

Entering Hampshire

Upon reaching Hampshire, as you enter the port, be vigilant of the buoys and local shipping lanes, adhering to the marked channels. The harbor can be busy, so keep to your designated paths and always announce your intentions clearly on the radio.

Safety Considerations

• Weather Monitoring: Always check weather forecasts before and during your trip. The Solent can experience rapid changes in conditions.
• Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with any local navigation regulations, especially concerning speed limits within ports and designated channels.
• Tidal Awareness: Understanding the tides is crucial in this area, particularly around Portsmouth Harbour and Stokes Bay. Always have a tide table onboard.

Boating Apps

For easy navigation and safety, I recommend using savvy navvy which provides real-time tide data, weather forecasts, and has comprehensive charts of the area. Coupled with apps like Navionics or C-MAP, you will have a robust toolkit at your fingertips for safe navigation.

Conclusion

This trip from Portsmouth to Hampshire captures the essence of coastal boating. With a balance of scenic beauty and maritime heritage, boater safety remains paramount. Ensure your equipment is ready, and take advantage of the shelters along the route should conditions change. Ultimately, this trip offers not just a commute between ports but an experience of the vibrant maritime atmosphere surrounding one of the UK's most celebrated coastlines. Enjoy your voyage!