Bembridge

[Lucky Duck]

The footpath across the rather uneven sea wall from the visitors' pontoon to the marina is currently closed meaning rather a long detour via Saint Helens. The notices suggest it may open later this month but I am doubtful.

Those wanting to visit the 'fleshpots' of Bembridge may wish to consider taking the water taxi of using thier own dinghy to cross the harbour

 

[Sticky Fingers]

Thanks that's useful, I'm planning my first trip there in a couple of weeks. Any other useful tips?

 

[Lucky Duck]

Their website has an on line tide gauge which gives the depth of water over the bar.

Rafting or berthing on the vistors's pontoon is usually port side to, i.e. facing downstream

It can get very busy!

 

[Sticky Fingers]

Thanks, the tide gauge is huge and obvious on their website but I missed it every time as it's in the adverts zone!

 

[[2068]]

Don’t go too close to the beach (Bembridge point side) as you enter or exit.
I did to make more room for a boat coming the other way, and it’s really quite shallow there.

 

[ashtead]

Enter on a rising tide and keep to middle of channel or don't be tempted to cut corners particularly Dont be tempted to move over for shallow draft mobo as you draw roughly same as us as that might lead to a temporary stranding . The problem is rafting so I don't know if you can book . I would also take provisions as local stores are some distance and restaurants are average but Bembridge is a better bet than St Helens although latter is walkable if uphill. Check websites for the BHYC for food serving but Bembridge sailing club has better views etc . If looking for dining book a table at crab and lobster or sea view hotel . I believe the latter has recently beenacquired by new owners but both are taxi or bike rides away . Not much in harbour but if you fancy a quick day on beach can travel by inflatable with outboard to Priory bay ( cannot miss it as waters off usually crowded with the larger rib types so can get noisy akin to East head in Chi .