Marchwood S.C.

At the top of Southampton Water near the container port. Marchwood Sailing Club has a set of pontoons and they are a very welcoming club. They charge about £8 per night and produce some good value meals at lunchtime and evenings.

Approaching Marchwood Sailing club pontoon.

A very pleasant walk through the woods up to Eling reveals a restored and working tide mill.

For a slightly unusual anchorage, try going on up the river toward Eling. Just opposite the container port, at the northern edge of the old Swinging Grounds, it is possible to anchor just out of the channel. We normally buoy the anchor here because there are moorings close by. It is fascinating to watch the container ships being shepherded into their berths before being loaded and unloaded. It may not be the most tranquil anchorage but it is certainly different (and free).

Guide price : £5 on pontoon (2002). £8 on pontoon (2007). £10 on pontoon (2009).