Recommend a solent boat yard for my project boat

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RMD

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Hi All,

Can anyone recommend an inexpensive boat yard on the south coast, (Lymington - Southampton - Chichester) that will allow me to work on my project boat.
Important: I will be doing all the work myself - I won't be using contractors.
I have an old contessa 32 that I want to totally refresh - in and out.
It will be a big job and I will need access to power, cranes, toilet facilities etc. and I may need to stay on board for a night once in a while.
The project will take at least a year.
Anyone have any yard suggestions?
 
I really like Gosport Boatyard. Friendly people there, two good chandleries within walking distance - I prefer YouBoat, a friend prefers the other. There's a Screwfix and, I think, Toolstation within a couple of miles (cycling distance), plus other workshops. The boatyard accepts mail, at least occasionally, and there's an Argos nearby for click-and-collect.
 
RMD said:
Hi All,

Can anyone recommend an inexpensive boat yard on the south coast, (Lymington - Southampton - Chichester) that will allow me to work on my project boat.
Important: I will be doing all the work myself - I won't be using contractors.
I have an old contessa 32 that I want to totally refresh - in and out.
It will be a big job and I will need access to power, cranes, toilet facilities etc. and I may need to stay on board for a night once in a while.
The project will take at least a year.
Anyone have any yard suggestions?
Click to expand...
Drivers dry berthing in the Itchen.
Expert carpenter, GRP guy and mechanic on site if you need help or advice. DIY perfectly OK. Loads of DIYers in the yard. Friendly and family owned.
Screwfix, tool station and a well stocked chandlery (that sells individual screws!) a short walk away.
Dusty the only downside not all the yard is concrete. But that’s common even in posh places and you’ll be adding to that dust. Prices good.
www.dryberthing.com.
 
Last edited:
RMD welcome to the forum.

Contessa 32's are good boats and worth renovating. Personally I am completing a full renovation of a Westerly Fulmar that has taken 8 years as I keep going sailing. For some encouragement have a look at these 2 links.
https://wiki.westerly-owners.co.uk/images/3/3f/Concerto.pdf
Although I do not have a Contessa, lots of things are similar on both boats.

Just remember to post photos of how she looks now and as your improve her. If you have any questions, there is a fount of knowledge on the forum that should be able to offer advice.

The only advice I can offer is keep any eye on what you plan to spend on your Contessa and expect in reality that will double it. My budget on top of the purchase price was £12,000 and I have now spent about £27,000 (excluding berthing, etc) to get her as I want it to a high standard of fit out. To me it has been worth every penny and I have enjoyed the work.

Best of luck.
 
RMD said:
Hi All,

Can anyone recommend an inexpensive boat yard on the south coast, (Lymington - Southampton - Chichester) that will allow me to work on my project boat.
Important: I will be doing all the work myself - I won't be using contractors.
I have an old contessa 32 that I want to totally refresh - in and out.
It will be a big job and I will need access to power, cranes, toilet facilities etc. and I may need to stay on board for a night once in a while.
The project will take at least a year.
Anyone have any yard suggestions?
Click to expand...

Phone Mike at Warsash Ferry - he has Alongsides and He'll also lift you out and put you to one side while you do your stuff. I've moored with him for 15 years.

He's Hamble - but he's not Stupid Rich Kid Hamble - if you get my meaning. An all round nice, good guy.

Mike; 07720 438402
He's just down the lane from the Royal Southern - though they hate us because they pay £1500/ Month and we pay £1500/ Year.
 
Lauren Marine yard electrics were nothing short of dangerous when I was there 5 years ago and we're constantly tripping. The loo was a bio hazard.

Deacons on the top of the Hamble has the advantage of the big Chandlery on site.
 
Wicormarine? Rob Pope of classic marine services is onsite and can help with difficult bits: helped me replace fuel and water tanks and refurb steering, just off M27 if coming from outside the area and marine superstore at port solent nearby. might be a bit tight for space ashore during the lay up period but worth considering.
 
+1 for Drivers Wharf at Northam ; top of the Itchen , above Woolston. Their rates are pretty decent too I had my boat lifted there a few years ago ;pontoon alongside the Yard wall and lifted in from there, they use a lift/transport to position fully supported , and their own cradles to suit.
Long term parking could be a problem, good access from the main road though. Ask first.

ianat182
 
Nope. you cant take a Contessa 32 to a cheap yard. Seriously you need the best yard to maximise exposure of a classic boat. id suggest the yard I use but no sleeping on board while on the hard. Have lots of fun.
Steveeasy
 
ashtead said:
You might also look on the Isle of Wight for cheaper places maybe? I guess it depends on whether you mind the ferry crossing .
Click to expand...

Good point. Harold Hayles in Yarmouth has space, is cheap, 5 min walk from Wightlink, nice place to be, long stay parking in Lymington right by the terminal.
 
Concerto said:
RMD welcome to the forum.

Contessa 32's are good boats and worth renovating. Personally I am completing a full renovation of a Westerly Fulmar that has taken 8 years as I keep going sailing. For some encouragement have a look at these 2 links.
https://wiki.westerly-owners.co.uk/images/3/3f/Concerto.pdf
Although I do not have a Contessa, lots of things are similar on both boats.

Just remember to post photos of how she looks now and as your improve her. If you have any questions, there is a fount of knowledge on the forum that should be able to offer advice.

The only advice I can offer is keep any eye on what you plan to spend on your Contessa and expect in reality that will double it. My budget on top of the purchase price was £12,000 and I have now spent about £27,000 (excluding berthing, etc) to get her as I want it to a high standard of fit out. To me it has been worth every penny and I have enjoyed the work.

Best of luck.
[/QUOTE

Hi @Concerto ,

Thank you for your advice - much appreciated.
I am so impressed by your work on the Westerly. Such a lovely finish.
No doubt I will be posting messages for advice soon.
Click to expand...
 
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