A quick glance at the photo gallery and the chart will soon show you that Keyhaven is not really a place for big boats. Even if you do get in on the tide, the only place available for anchoring in a deep pool just within the entrance. It is exposed to easterlies and doesn't really give protection from the wind, furthermore there are anchoring charges.

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The entrance is not easy to identify, it lies about half a mile to the NNW of Hurst Point. When approaching allowance should be made for a strong tidal cross stream, with the outgoing southward bound stream reaching 2.5 kn. Yachts drawing 1.5 m can normally enter and depart two hours either side of high water, shallower draft craft have a bigger window. There is a 4 kn speed limit within.

Pilotage details for entering Keyhaven are now given:

Approach from the West will be made either through the North channel or the Needles channel, and if using the former give a wide berth to The Trap just after Hurst Point. Approaching from the East is straightforward enough, providing you keep a sharp eye out for the Lymington/Yarmouth ferries. ... read more

Quite sizeable boats can work their way up to Keyhaven Quay and the boatyard,  but unless you have prearranged business,  it is probably unwise to nose up here in a larger boat. 

Anchorage has already been described, and the only other options are these: If you have a very small craft you could pick up a vacant mooring buoy amongst similar sized craft for a short period only. The other option again in small craft is to make your way to the Quay and tie up there. There is over 2m at the Quay at HW Springs ... read more