I've now given up on the Folly due to absolutely appalling service, is anyone aware of any decent pubs or restaurants walkable from Island Harbour Marina?
You've got a bit of a hike - the nearest decent pub is the Bargemans Rest opposite Newport Quay (about 30-40 minutes walk along the river path - unlit at night). There is a Brewers Fayre pub a few hundred yards closer but I would go the extra bit, having come so far. If you can take the ground, take your boat up to the quay.
There are no pubs until Newport up on the main road from Island Harbour and you are almost into East Cowes (or Osborne House inland) before there is anything the other way.
In season, you may get the water taxi to come and pick you up and take you to Cowes - at a price. The only other alternative is one of the Cowes (E or W) marinas.
I was up at the Folly Reach last week and chatting to the pleasant chap in the harbour launch and I happened to say "I guess things are quieting down a bit" He said "well its been quiet all year really" and I said "well it prob because everybody recons that the Folly is cr*p now"
I took a walk up to Newport to look at the berths there at low water: and the floating pontoon for yachts that can take the ground looked quite good and the wall to lean keelers against is OK with fender boards supplied I think. Only thing is its a bit dismal up there but it was a grey evening so maybe it looks bit better in the sun...
Island harbour is under new managment I believe but still cost me 25 quid for 1 night with my 36fter earlier this year... actually I dont really like the Medina any more, and there are loads of other nicer places on the IOW.... its just that its rather convienient.