Cowes Port Handbook 2014-2015 April 2014 | Page 50

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2014 - 2015

Visitors to the Hamble are made very welcome and there are affordable
visitor berths at Hamble and Warsash. There is plenty to do on and off the
river - it is a birdwatchers’ paradise and riverside walks or simply watching
the world go by are popular pastimes.
There’s a well known, bright pink ferry which operates all year round across
the river between the two waterside villages of Hamble and Warsash, and
according to local research, has done since at least 1493!
The historic maritime city of Southampton in Hampshire is regarded as
the cruise capital of northern Europe and plays host to over four million
visitors a year. However, the city is much more than just a cruise stop or
shopping destination. Its appeal lies in its diverse nightlife, exciting retail
opportunities, varied leisure facilities, superb art and heritage attractions,
lively events programme, and of course the excitement and charm of a
bustling waterfront location.
Y achting and leisure boating are extremely popular in sheltered
Southampton Water with a unique double tide contributing to 17 hours
of High Water each day.
The principal deep water navigational channels within the port of
Southampton are well marked by buoys and lights. These channels are in
constant use by commercial vessels, including large deep-draught tankers,
container ships, ferries, and other traffic. Recreational users of the harbour
are advised to keep well clear of these main channels whenever possible,
and use the recommended crossing areas. Full navigational information is
available at www.southamptonvts.co.uk.
The Southampton Boat Show is the biggest water-based boat show in
Europe and has been held every September since 1969 in Mayflower
Park. This year the PSP Southampton Boat Show takes place from 12-21
September 2014.

Ryde Pier

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