Boat hire in Southampton

Discover Southampton by boat

Located on the south coast of England, the port city of Southampton is an important maritime hub. It’s also a favourite location for sailors. Southampton itself is a dynamic city with many museums, international restaurants, and activities.

Most notably, the SeaCity museum explains the link between Southampton and the Titanic. The latter departed from the city in 1912 for its maiden and last transatlantic voyage. You can also visit the largest working steamship in Britain, Shieldhall, launched in 1955.

A private yacht hire in Southampton is a great way to discover the city from the water. You’ll be able to explore the famous Solent and the beautiful neighbouring areas.

How much does a yacht rental in Southampton cost?

The price of a boat rental depends on many factors such as the location, the season, the type of boat or if you’re renting the boat with a skipper. You also have the option of adding extras to your hire. This can include snorkelling equipment, wakeboard, SUPs or other water sports equipment.

Adding a skipper to your rental can also change the cost of your charter.

The high season is during the summer months. Prices are generally higher at that time. However, on average, renting a sailboat in Southampton starts at £250 for a day. For a motorboat hire, prices start at £600 a day.

How much does it cost to charter a skippered yacht in Southampton?

Hiring a skipper in Southampton costs on average an additional £200 a day. Often, the skipper can already be included in the price of the boat hire. Having a skipper onboard is a great way to benefit from local knowledge. You’ll have someone with you to show you the best spots while you enjoy a stress-free day.

Where to sail in Southampton?

A yacht charter in Southampton is a great way to explore the surrounding areas, whether you’re on the water for a day or for longer. The Solent is a great place to sail: its changing conditions make it an ideal location for experienced sailors, or for those eager to learn.

The Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight, just opposite Southampton, is a beautiful island known for its many beaches. Shanklin beach, on the East side of the island, is lined with colourful beach huts and there are many cafés and pubs along the shore.

You can also sail past The Needles, a famous landmark just off the western point of the island. The lovely port of Cowes is renowned as the starting point for Cowes week, the world’s oldest and biggest sailing regatta.

Along the coast of Dorset

If you go further down the coast, you’ll sail past New Forest National Park, a wildlife and cultural heritage centre, and past the Georgian market town of Lymington.

After Bournemouth, down the coast of Dorset, you can stop at Lulworth Cove, a popular pebble beach. Just after it is Durdle Door, a landmark natural limestone arch on the Jurassic coast.

The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a site worth seeing in itself. Stretching from Exmouth in Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset, the 95-mile-long coastline boasts outstanding rocks, fossils and stunning scenery.

Along the coast of Sussex

To the East of Southampton is Portsmouth. Home to HMS Victory, it's also known for its historic dockyard and as an important naval base. And further up are the South Downs and their famous white chalk cliffs. Beachy Head is Britain’s highest chalk cliff, featuring a 19th-century lighthouse.

The Seven Sisters Cliffs are also located there, between Seaford and Eastbourne. A legendary site, it’s also a significant archaeological site. Many trails run along the cliffs, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Channel.

Brighton, a popular seaside resort, is now a vibrant city with a dynamic cultural, music and art scene.

Crossing the Channel

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, Cherbourg is just across the Channel, and can be reached in 12 to 15 hours. The Channel Islands of Guernsey and Jersey are just to the South. It’s worth visiting them for their beautiful coastlines, beaches and special atmosphere.

Renting a boat in Southampton is an incredible to way to access all that the South of England has to offer.

What season is the best to sail in Southampton?

You can sail around Southampton all year round thanks to moderate climate conditions. The summer months are the best weather-wise but can get quite crowded on the sunny days.

As long as you have waterproofs with you in case of showers, especially in the winter months, you’re good to sail at any time of the year.

What is the capacity of boats in Southampton?

In Southampton, you can hire a boat with a capacity of up to 12 people for motorboats, or 8 people for sailboats. Perfect for outings with family or friends, you can have everyone on board with you.