Please Help! Thames or Solent?

[vandy]

Folks, my new rib is being delivered to me next week. I have to decide where to keep it for the next season, so I have two options based on my distance to travel etc.. Tidal Thames, and Solent.

I have been boating in the tidal thames for the past 5 years, so I know the area very well. BUT I have not got much experience boating in Solent. I have been there on other people's boats but not mine.

So my questions are; has anyone tried both Tidal Thames and Solent? what are the pros and cons in Solent? is it easy crusing next to commercial vessels?

Please help!

 

[thejonesey]

Training and try it!

We have just moved the other way but plan to summer on the coast. The Solent is FAB, lots of room compared to what you are used to but you do need to be aware of tides, wind, depth, other boats etc. If you are worried about these things then do a powerboat level 2 course, they are great fun and you will learn loads. Some of the peeps on the forum are instructors and come highly recommended. How big is your RIB as this will be a factor in the choppier waters. If you can trail it then I would say, give it a go, start with good weather and enjoy.

 

[VAO]

VAO

If you are confident on the tidal Thames, you should enjoy the Solent. I have done both and enjoy both, on a RIB & flybridge. Beware the Solent "chop", but fun when you get used to it! Newtown Creek is a must do, but take care with your tidal calculations!

 

[thames cruiser]

There used to be quite a few very happy rib owners on the tidal Thames, but with the introduction of the new speed limit I suspect many will now leave. I'd certainly say head for the Solent and have a great time playing there.

 

[landlockedpirate]

Boated on both with trail boats.

We really enjoy the Thames, find it very relaxing, especially on the upper reaches. I feel the tidal part needs a few more piers and its not my favourite place to day boat.

For a little more freedom try the Solent, its about the easiest tidal place to boat in the UK. Lots of places to go, even if the weather is poor. It is crowded, but outside of Cowes week I dont think its a bad as some people make out.

 

[Windybaby]

SOLENT plenty of room for all. Loads of places to see and visit. Friendly, helpful marinas. Restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs. Birdlife, sealife, wildlife. No speed limit, no fun limit, come and join us!

 

[ricky_s]

SOLENT No speed limit....

Not sure they would agree with you in Chi Harbour.