The waterfront city of Portsmouth is so rich in both maritime heritage and modern day attractions, that no Solent yacht or rib charter would be complete without a visit to Portsmouth Harbour.

The city owes much of its history and livelihood to the fact that it has a very large natural harbour with a narrow entrance, and that the Isle of Wight shields it from the worst of the weather, and until recently, its potential enemies. This combination which was in the past, so advantageous a position militarily, to try to defend or launch an attack from, (from Roman times through to D-Day), now comes into its own again in this age of leisure, by providing a safe haven for ships, yachts and boats of all sizes, and spectacular views and a wealth of visitor attractions.

Although Portsmouth is still the home of the Royal Navy, and one of the world's greatest naval bases, the skyline has been dominated by the world class Spinnaker Tower since 2001. It soars 170 metres above Portsmouth Harbour, (its taller than the London Eye!) and provides a breathtaking 350 degree, 23 mile view of Portsmouth and the Solent from three viewing decks, (one of which has Europe's largest glass floor, and another which you can even get married on!). The irresistable mix of old and new is epitomized by one view from Spinnaker Tower that lets you see world famous warships from 3 different eras in the Historic Dockyard, (The Mary Rose, HMS Victory and HMS Warrior).

The new is also brilliantly represented by the waterfront location of Gunwharf Quays, the jewel of the Solent. In addition to housing the Spinnaker Tower, this magnificent complex contains something for absolutely everyone. There are over 90 designer shops at discount prices, dozens of cosmopolitan bars, restaurants and cafes. There is a comedy club, a night club and a casino. There is a 14 screen cinema and a 26 lane bowling alley. There are chidrens rides, seasonal events, markets, and street entertainers. There is a marina big enough to accomodate Tall Ships, multi-million pound superyachts and international sailing events like the Volvo Ocean Race. You can also get boat trips around the harbour and beyond.

The harbour is blessed with many other marinas, ranging from Haslar Marina, just a few minutes cruise away from the Solent (and a popular place to start a Portsmouth yacht charter) to Port Solent (at the top of the harbour) which is a leisure destination in its own right. Opposite Port Solent is the ancient Roman fort of Portchester castle, the most impressive and best preserved of the Roman 'Saxon Shore' forts, which surrounds a charming and much loved little church.

Other attractions in the Portsmouth area include Charles Dickens birthplace, the D-Day museum, the Submarine museum, four miles of landscaped, seafront gardens along the Southsea Promenade, piers with amusement parks and fairs, Southsea Skatepark, and much, much more.

For more information about a Solent Yacht Charter or Rib Charter (for private or Corporate events), please get in touch with us, or request a call-back at a time that is most convenient for you.

We'll work hard to help you play hard !