As its in the harbour, its out of the solent chop. However, it can be a bit bumpy because of the steady stream of commercial traffic using the fairway. A quieter spot might be held if you could secure a berth in Haslar well up from the Lightship.
I always think its a mess in there - swell from harbour traffic all the time. It is not well protected and not nice to overnight IMHO. Even the tour boats come and go too fast making a wash
We have visited Gunwharf for shopping trips for SWMBO. Its horrendous on the outside of the pontoons - you can be going up and down like a yoyo.
Inside is a bit better - but there are berths inside that are exposed to the swell from passing traffic. (And as MJS said - nobody seems to minimize wake).
I've overnighted there a few times in a 23 footer without any great discomfort - though definitely wouldn't want to be on the outside of the outer pontoon Mind you it's a personal preference thing - if you're not keen on a bit of roll and regular visits from the Police-boat-with-huge-engines which actually goes into the marina as part of its regular tour then maybe not. mmm, thinking of it, I generally go to the pub which helps with the sleep side of things...
Yes...the police launch. I've been in Gosport marina when that thing goes past at a few rate of knots causing masts on yachts to clang together. No wonder everyone has snubbers in there.
Staid there a few nights, to get Debs on the train to London, Dont remember any problems, except weather to hot. Got charged about half price. Blkke said, he could not shame us with the propper price. /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif
I agree with the post recommending Haslar. Gunwharf are more interested in vessels that the grockelers and shoppers might like to see like old Whitbread boats. Haslar is very friendly, has good facilities in the lightship and the trip over on the Gosport ferry is easy going. BTW - no connection with the marina except that we are berthed there