Cowes Port Handbook 2014-2015 April 2014 | Page 53

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2014 - 2015

fortress that was built to protect the harbour in Roman times. Lifestyle
attractions include the Gunwharf Quays shopping centre, a lively arts
scene, great restaurants and bars, and the impressive 170m tall Spinnaker
Tower with its fabulous views over the harbour and the Solent.
Due to its strategic location on the south coast of England, Portsmouth has
long been a key location in the country’s sea defences and it is well known
for being the home of the Royal Navy and the iconic HMS Illustrious.
The city’s proud maritime heritage continues with the presence of the
Historical Dockyard, home to HMS Victory and the Mary Rose among
others. In modern times, the harbour has become a major commercial
ferry port, with regular services to France and The Channel Islands.
The speed limit in Portsmouth
Harbour is 10 knots through the
water. To facilitate the safe passage
of small craft entering and leaving
Portsmouth Harbour, a ‘Small Boat
Channel’ exists for vessels under
20m on the western side of the
harbour entrance. Small boats bound
for Gunwharf Quays/Town Camber
are only to cross the Main Channel
when they are to the north of Ballast
Beacon, and permission has been
obtained from QHM on VHF Ch 11.
Vessels fitted with engines are to
use them from entering the Small
Boat Channel.

Visit Hampshire

Small boats departing from Gunwharf Quays and Town Camber are to
obtain permission from QHM on VHF Ch 11 before proceeding and again
when in the vicinity of “The Point” prior to crossing the Main Channel. All
vessels are then to cross the Main Channel direct to Ballast Beacon and
leave the harbour through the Small Boat Channel.
Full navigational information is found at www.qhm.mod.uk/portsmouth.
Located at the eastern-most point of the Isle of Wight, Bembridge
Harbour is home to two vibrant sailing clubs, a fishing fleet, and numerous
businesses associated with water-based activities. Access to the harbour
is restricted to High Water +3 hours for vessels drawing 1.5m. The harbour
offers a range of moorings from walk-ashore po