Cowes has long been known as the epicentre of the English yacht racing scene. With its position at the centre of the Solent, and interesting and challenging waters to be sailed virtually on the doorstep it's not surprising. The fact that it's on the Isle of Wight adds to that feeling of actually arriving somewhere offshore, as opposed to just coasting. 

For the visiting small craft mariner, Cowes harbour offers all tide access, and berths are relatively easy to obtain and reasonably priced. For the cruising yachtsman Cowes is best avoided during Cowes week which happens every year at the beginning of August. The place is packed, prices are higher, and there is general mayhem on the water.

For racing types sailing around the Isle of Wight offers very interesting navigational challenges and winds from just about every angle in the course of the circumnavigation. For a fast boat an early morning start can see you back on your mooring in time for last orders at the pub. ... read more

Any kind of approach to Cowes from a northerly direction needs a thorough study of the precautionary area shown on our Central Solent chart. Huge and heavy ships make their way to and from Southampton passing through this area of concern. The unfortunately positioned Bramble Bank blocks their direct access to and from Southampton water, and means they have to execute a lumbering turn virtually right off the entrance to Cowes.

The photo insert on the chart shows the size of these levithians literally dwarfing the Red Funnel car ferry, let alone your yacht. The entrance to Cowes Harbour is via a narrow, buoyed, deepwater channel that runs close to the western shore. This channel is much in use by fast and slow ferries, and there are very strong cross tides to be taken into account in the approach. Pilotage details for the approach are now given: ... read more

Next up is the spindly landing stage, Trinity Pontoon. The outside of this can be used to land and pick up, and certain areas of the inside can be used for an overnight berth with permission of the harbour authorities. Water and electricity are available. These two facilities can be clearly seen in photo number seven. The disadvantage of the Trinity pontoon is its exposed position, and the constant wash from passing traffic and ferries. The cost of the Trinity pontoon is £1.90 per metre overnight, with short stays of up to 4 hours (between 10 AM and 4 PM only) charged at 90p per metre Monday to Thursday, and 1.00 p per metre Friday to Sunday.  ... read more