Cowes Port Handbook 2013-2014

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Welcome to Cowes! ...................................

It’s a pleasure to welcome you to the Cowes Port Handbook 2013, the official handbook for Cowes, a must-visit destination for sailors and boaters worldwide.

Ian Roman - www.ianroman.com

After the amazing profile the sport enjoyed over the 2012 Olympics and the honours bestowed on our sailors, the natural focus for sailing in the UK returns to Cowes, and we’re not going to be disappointed in 2013.

This season promises plenty of world class events in Cowes. The J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race and Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week top the bill, and as the final fireworks of Cowes Week end, all eyes will turn to the offshore classic, the Rolex Fastnet Race.

No two days are the same in Cowes, the variety of boats, people and celebrations are never ending, and 2013 will be no exception. However, there’s lots more to Cowes than yacht racing and thanks to its position at the centre of the Solent, its variety of restaurants, shops, marine services and facilities, Cowes is a favourite destination port for cruising sailors and powerboats as well.

Cowes is a wonderful town to visit all year round and that’s why it has been me and my family’s home for over a decade. It’s a very special place and whether arriving by ferry or by yacht, you instantly relax.

Make sure you pick up a Cowes Port Handbook to keep on your boat and one for home too, as this guide contains everything you’ll need to know about the town and harbour.

Wishing everyone a great season, on and off the water. See you in Cowes!

Shirley Robertson OBE Double Olympic gold medallist & TV broadcaster Patron of The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust Aberdeen Asset Management sailing ambassador

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Contents ................

Introduction - Shirley Robertson OBE ........................................................... 1 Harbour Master’s Welcome ........................................................................... 4-5 Yachtsman’s Guide ....................................................................................... 6-47 Navigation & Harbour Information ................................................... 6-16 Cowes Harbour General Directions ................................................ 18-19 Mooring Up .............................................................................................. 20-27 Information for Visiting Yachts ........................................................ 28-31 Weather ............................................................................................................ 32 Safety Afloat ............................................................................................ 34-35 Cowes RNLI ..................................................................................................... 36 HM Customs & Excise ................................................................................. 37 Onwards from Cowes .......................................................................... 38-39 Around the Solent .................................................................................. 40-47 Visitor’s Guide .............................................................................................. 50-89 Landmarks of Cowes ............................................................................. 50-53 Shopping in Cowes & East Cowes ................................................... 54-55 Cowes & East Cowes - History ......................................................... 56-59 Walks from Cowes ................................................................................. 60-63 Wildlife of the River Medina .............................................................. 64-66 Around the Isle of Wight ..................................................................... 68-70 Fleets of Cowes ....................................................................................... 72-75 Cowes Yacht Clubs ................................................................................ 76-79 Yacht Racing ............................................................................................ 80-83 Types of Yachting .................................................................................. 84-85 Cruising ...................................................................................................... 86-87 Motor Yachts ........................................................................................... 88-89 Cowes Events Diary ...................................................................................... 90-99 Cowes Events Calendar ......................................................................... 100-107 Cowes Directory Index .................................................................................. 108

Cowes Directory ....................................................................... 110-133 Cowes Tide Tables ................................................................................. 134-147 A-Z of Advertisers .................................................................................... 148-149 Glossary ..................................................................................................................150 Cowes & River Medina Map .............................. pull out inside back cover Buoy Racer 2013 .................................................... pull out inside back cover Produced on behalf of Cowes Harbour Commission by Solent.

Editor: Louisa Mamakou Graphic Designers: Monika Olek & Katie Przygonski Sales Director: David Brooks Marine Sales Executive: Rachael Hardiman 07885 720503 01983 200336 david@cowes.co.uk rachael@cowes.co.uk Front cover: Paul Wyeth / www.pwpictures.com Solent, 30 Quay Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5BA Tel: 01983 200336 Web: www.solent.co © 2013 Solent

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Harbour Master’s Welcome .................................................

It gives me great pleasure to introduce you to the Cowes Port Handbook for 2013. I am extremely fortunate to have the position of Cowes Harbour Master and Chief Executive with a team of Harbour Commissioners and staff that are all passionate about ensuring the continued success of Cowes Harbour and the River Medina.

Central to our vision is ensuring that customers and visitors receive a warm welcome and ‘best of class’ service. Communication and feedback is therefore vital and the Commission has made great strides in improving the methods and quality of our communications to our customers and stakeholders both through direct dialogue and our investment into interactive communications such as our E-newsletters, our two linked websites with the associated Cowes App, and the growth of our social media presence on Twitter, Facebook, and Flickr. We value your continued feedback, which helps us ensure we are providing you with the service and offer that fully meets your expectations.

Looking back to 2012, I think the pinnacle was Her Majesty The Queen’s visit to Cowes on the superyacht Leander in July as part of her Diamond Jubilee year. Her arrival at Trinity Landing was a truly memorable occasion, with a grand welcome from the fantastic Superyacht Cup yachts and a ‘Parade of Sail’ off The Green followed by the Royal Yacht Squadron’s 21 gun salute, all watched by crowds of people of all generations waving flags and enjoying the occasion with Cowes at its unique best! There are some fantastic photographs of the day, and also some of the spectacular superyachts that we had the pleasure to host and enjoy watching racing off Cowes, which are available on our Flickr account and well worth a look.

The Commission has continued its investment and efforts into the delivery of the proposed Cowes Harbour Breakwater that the Commissioners consider is vital to the long term prosperity of the harbour, and local community. The project is now fully consented; construction tender specifications completed and at the time of printing we are awaiting final news from the government on whether they will continue to support and deliver on their partnership funding. This partnership funding is essential to assist the Commission to construct the outer breakwater that will not only protect the harbour but the employment, businesses, and local economy that it supports.

Another important event in 2012 was the Harbour Commission investment in the acquisition of Kingston Wharf which has secured this strategically important shipping wharf and marine service site for the future prosperity of the harbour. The Commission is committed to continuing investment into this site and developing our operation of Kingston Marine Services and Boatyard and assisting the continued success of other associated marine, shipping, and commercial businesses that operate from the wharf.

Looking forward to 2013, I have put in a request for a long and hot summer with good, steady and warm sailing winds! We have a fantastic 4

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calendar of yachting events to look forward to in 2013 with all the regular highlights spots such as the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race, Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week, and the Classic and Metre Regattas. I am also looking forward to welcoming the Old Gaffers Association in August for what is set to be a spectacular regatta celebrating their 50th anniversary. For full details of all events please see our Events Calendar on page 100, or go online to COWES.co.uk/events.

Thank you for your positive feedback on the introduction of the small craft channel in 2012; we have subsequently added some additional navigational marks to improve the visibility of the channel when approaching from the east. Full details can be found on page 10, but remember to note the tidal restrictions and advice on when to use the small craft channel or when to go in the main channel! Please also be aware of the introduction of the new General Directions, that will take the place of all the existing byelaws and will come into force on 1 April 2013, except the rules governing the Chain Ferry operation which remain the same. See page 18 for full details.

Finally, whether you are coming to Cowes to race, cruise, or just to visit this unique town, I trust that you will have an enjoyable and memorable time here.

Stuart McIntosh Harbour Master / Chief Executive

Rod Hodgson Deputy Harbour Master / Pilot

Facebook.com/cowesofficial Twitter.com/cowesofficial Flickr.com/photos/cowesoffical Scan the QR code to join the Cowes Harbour Commission E-news mailing list.

Harbour Office, Town Quay, Cowes PO31 7AS Tel: 01983 293952 chc@cowes.co.uk www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk

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Navigation and Harbour Information ................................................................

Cowes, renowned as the world’s premier yachting centre, is the Isle of Wight’s main port with a harbour that’s easily accessible and a river navigable as far as Newport. Its position at the centre of the Solent brings sailors and powerboaters, racers and cruisers flocking to the harbour throughout the season from April to October.

Harbour Office, Town Quay

In addition to its popularity with cruising yachts and powerboats, Cowes hosts an unequalled number of racing events and cruising rallies every season. Thousands of yachts sail into Cowes each year with over 10,000 visitors arriving in the town during each of the season’s major events.

During Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week the total number of sailors and visitors flooding into the town can exceed 100,000.

As well as recreational craft, there are also a large number of commercial movements, with high-speed ferries, car ferries, and commercial craft up to 100m in length moving in and out of the harbour and river. In this busy marine environment it is essential for everyone’s safety and enjoyment that all water users understand how to navigate safely in a crowded river and harbour, and know the local regulations as well as the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs).

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TS Training

RYA POWERBOAT TRAINING www.tstraining.co.uk

Specialising in RYA Powerboat Level 1-2, Intermediate, Advanced & Theory Courses Water base: Shepards Wharf Marina, Medina Road, Cowes, PO31 7HT Mobile: +44 (0)7973 691434 Email: info@tstraining.co.uk

Approaching Cowes

...........................

The Cowes fairway extends approximately 500m north of the No. 1 and No. 2 buoys, and all vessels must comply with Rule 9 of the Collision Regulations (‘Navigation in Narrow Channels’). The main entrance to the inner harbour and River Medina is clearly marked by the No. 1 and No. 2 fairway buoys, with the tower of the Royal Yacht Squadron prominent to the west of the harbour entrance.

If approaching from the west, in the vicinity of Gurnard north cardinal buoy, you should stay at least 125m from the shore to avoid the rocks along The Green and stay clear of the row of yellow small craft moorings.

Turn into the inner fairway and keep to the starboard side as you progress south into the harbour, taking any cross current into consideration.

If approaching from the east, you should pass at least 200m north of Old Castle Point leaving the Shrape beacon to port and north of all swinging moorings to the east of the harbour entrance before entering the inner fairway. Alternatively, small vessels may consider using the small craft channel; see page 10 for full information.

You are strongly advised to enter the harbour under power due to strong tidal flows and the high density of manoeuvring vessels.

More information is contained in: Cowes Local Notice to Mariners No. 11 of 2013: Approaches to Cowes Harbour, at www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk/pages/notices.

Hamo Thornycroft

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Precautionary Area

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An approach to Cowes may involve entering the Precautionary Area and the associated Moving Prohibited Zone (MPZ) that exists around large commercial vessels navigating the approaches to the port of Southampton.

The Precautionary Area is bounded by the Hook buoy off Calshot Castle to the north and the Gurnard and Prince Consort buoys to the south and assists the safe transit of supertankers, cruise ships, and other large commercial vessels over 150m in length.

The area is shown in the diagram below and as a leisure visitor you need to be aware that commercial shipping maintains a right of way in the Precautionary Area. You must keep out of the way. The MPZs around large vessels require you to keep a minimum 1,000m ahead and 100m either side of the ship in question, bearing in mind that the ‘zone’ moves with the ship. On a flood tide vessels may head towards the Gurnard buoy before making a large alteration to starboard to enter the Thorn Channel.

More information is contained in Southampton Notice to Mariners No. 23 of 2012: Port of Southampton - Precautionary Area (Thorn Channel), at www.southamptonvts.co.uk/Port_Information/Navigation.

Hook

Precautionary area and moving prohibited zone

Ca

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Not to be used for navigation

ot

Black Jack

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Nort

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Calshot

South Cardinal 200m

Calshot Spit

West Cardinal

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Precautionary Area

Thorn Knoll

Bramble Bank

West Bramble

North East Gurnard

Ebb Tide

South Bramble

!

Flood Tide

Gurnard Lepe Spit Typical tracks of large commercial vessels.

Note: These vessels may be encountered anywhere within the precautionary area.

East Lepe

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COWES

THE FAIRWAY

Prince Consort

OLD CASTLE POINT

EAST COWES

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Shipping Movements

............................

Shipping information broadcasts are given by Southampton Vessel Traffic Service on VHF Ch 12 on the hour, from 0600 to 2200, Friday to Sunday, and Bank Holiday Mondays inclusive from Easter until the last weekend in October. Also from 0600 to 2200 daily from 1 June to 30 September.

Peter Mumford - Beken of Cowes

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Small Craft Channel

...........................

The small craft channel connects the eastern approaches to Cowes with the main fairway opposite Town Quay, enabling small vessels to avoid the main harbour entrance when approaching/departing Cowes from/to the north and east. The depth in the small craft channel may be as little as chart datum (0.0m). As a rule of thumb, if your draught is more than the current tide height you should avoid using the channel.

The current tide height can be found on the COWES.co.uk homepage or on the tide boards located at Town Quay and the Shrape beacon. Vessels using the channel should stay below 6 knots and pass to seaward of the Shrape beacon and between the three pairs of red and green buoys.

J H

1 Trinity Landing

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Recreation Ground

SCHOOL end Vessels joining or leaving the small craft channel at the western should navigate with extreme caution and are advised to give way to all vessels navigating in the main harbour fairway. Care should be taken in UKSA particular not to impede commercial vessels including passenger ferries (Red Jets) turning off Cowes Town Quay and large car ferries approaching and departing from East Cowes Red Funnel terminal.

East 10 COWES.co.uk Cowes ST FAITH’S ROAD

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Y F ERRand FIRE three The small craft channel is a minimum of 35m wide is marked by A3 02 STATION 1 TOWN HALL pairs of lit red and green lateral marks at the eastern end and two pairs YO L Cowes RK of litCOWES yellow lateral special marks at Hammerhead the western end. Vessels in the small AV Crane HARBOUR EN craft channel and main fairwayCowes must ensure that Rule 9 of the Collision UE Harbour FUELS Whitegates Fuels Regulations is followed.

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Not to be used for navigation

2 A B C

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Cross currents of up to 2 knots may be encountered in the small craft channel during spring ebb tides. Care should be taken to adhere to the buoyed channel and not to enter the small craft mooring areas either side (prohibited areas).

More information is contained in: Cowes Local Notice to Mariners No. 12 of 2013: Small Craft Channel, at www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk/pages/notices.

Tidal Movements

.......................

Tides around Cowes Harbour can run up to 3 knots. Such tidal streams will have a significant effect on the manoeuvrability of commercial vessels.

In keeping with the Collision Regulations vessels under 20m, sailing vessels and fishing vessels, must give way to large vessels that can only safely navigate within the fairway; this includes all the ferries arriving or departing Cowes.

Mean Spring range 3.6m (12 feet).

Mean Neaps range 1.8m (6 feet).

C WES HARBOUR

COMMISSION South of No. 4 buoy the tide stands for 2 hours after High Water. Exercise particular caution during periods of spring ebb tides in the vicinity of the Chain Ferry where the tide can reach speeds of up to 4 knots.

During spring tides, a west going ebb of up to 3 knots runs between High Water -2.5hrs and High Water +3hrs at No. 1 and No. 2 buoys. The west going set is experienced as far south as No. 4 (red) buoy.

Full Cowes Tide Tables from April 2013 to March 2014 are printed at the back of this Handbook.

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10

11

15

9 13

7 8

7

2 This image has been manipulated to show the small craft channel.

NOT TO BE USED FOR NAVIGATION.

Cowes Fairway

....................

Once in the fairway, the famous landmarks of Cowes come into focus.

Immediately to port are the main harbour swinging moorings, to starboard is the Royal Yacht Squadron, and the giant Union Flag doors of Venture Quays ahead. The historic Cowes Parade stretches along the waterfront encompassing Trinity Landing, a public pontoon facility, and many of the famous Cowes yacht clubs.

Red Funnel’s terminal for the Red Jet, its fast passenger service, is next to the Town Quay - the home of the Harbour Master’s offices and pontoons for visiting RIBs. A small scrubbing berth is also available.

Next in line to starboard, are Cowes Yacht Haven and Shepards Wharf Marina. The Chain Ferry that links Cowes and East Cowes crosses the River Medina immediately south of Shepards Wharf Marina.

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16

14

11

12

6 5 4

3 1

The eastern side of the River Medina, East Cowes, is the home of marine related industry based at the historic Saunders Roe aircraft works (Venture Quays) and the old J.S. White Shipyard. The recently extended Classic Boat Museum is situated close to East Cowes Esplanade.

1. No. 1 starboard-hand buoy 2. No. 2 port-hand buoy 3. Royal Yacht Squadron 4. Trinity Landing 5. Cowes Parade 6. Cowes RNLI lifeboat station 7. Main harbour swinging moorings 8. Small craft channel

9. Venture Quays 10. East Cowes car ferry terminal 11. Cowes Red Jet terminal 12. Town Quay 13. Cowes Yacht Haven 14. Shepards Wharf Marina 15. Chain Ferry 16. East Cowes Marina COWES.co.uk

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Ferries & Commercial Vessels

........................................

Vessels over 30m in length will make announcements on VHF Ch 69 at selected reporting points which include approaching the harbour limits, the Chain Ferry, and prior to departing berths. Such vessels shall also sound one prolonged blast on the whistle when approaching the Chain Ferry from the north or south. All vessels are strongly recommended to maintain a listening watch on VHF Ch 69.

Beautiful Wight Images

There are frequent ferry movements in the harbour and its approaches.

Red Jet passenger vessels exhibit a flashing yellow light when underway and swing to starboard after one short blast, using much of the fairway.

Vessels should not overtake on the starboard side of the Red Jets when they approach their berth at Jubilee Pontoon, Town Quay.

The car ferries berth between the Union Flag shed and the Chain Ferry on the East Cowes side. The car ferries will turn to port at No. 6 buoy to approach their berth. Outbound vessels should proceed with caution in the vicinity.

Red Funnel car ferries, Red Jets and cargo vessels can only safely navigate within the fairway. Sailing vessels, fishing vessels and vessels under 20m must give way to vessels that can only safely navigate within the fairway.

Speed Limits & Wash

............................

The speed limit in the inner harbour is 6 knots through the water; see diagram on page 18. The Harbour Master takes particular care to ensure this limit is enforced at all times.

Please be conscious that this is the limit and not a ‘target’.

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buoys. Small vessels and tenders may well be embarking or disembarking passengers and be particularly vulnerable.

Cowes Harbour Radio VHF Ch 69

............................................

The Cowes Harbour Master afloat maintains a listening watch on VHF Ch 69 from 0800-1800 extending to 0700-1900 during British Summer Time (BST). Call sign ‘HM1’. Safety information and berthing availability is available on request.

When navigating in and around Cowes Harbour, vessels over 30m must (and all vessels are strongly recommended to) maintain a listening watch on VHF Ch 69. All vessels of 30m LOA and above must give notice of their intentions on VHF Ch 69 to ‘All ships in Cowes Harbour’ as follows: Inbound: Prior to entering the fairway, passing Shepards Wharf Marina and passing the Folly Inn. Outbound: When departing a berth, passing the Folly Inn, passing Kingston Wharves and when approaching the Chain Ferry.

Any vessel over 20m LOA intending to pass the Chain Ferry must establish contact, call sign ‘Cowes Chain Ferry’, and agree on VHF Ch 69 on which side the Chain Ferry will hold for your passage. Such vessels should also sound one prolonged blast on the whistle when approaching the Chain Ferry from the north or south.

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Cowes Chain Ferry

.........................

Most Islanders call the Cowes Chain Ferry the ‘Floating Bridge’ and for good reason. It provides a vital foot passenger and vehicle link across the River Medina between Cowes and East Cowes, with an excellent regular service all year round.

Cowes Chain Ferry

Any vessel over 20m LOA intending to pass the Chain Ferry or any vessel requiring an unimpeded passage shall establish contact (call sign ‘Cowes Chain Ferry’) and agree on VHF Ch 69 which side the Chain Ferry will hold for your passage.

The Chain Ferry is situated in close proximity to the blind bend of the River Medina and you are advised to navigate with great caution in the vicinity of the ferry. The Chain Ferry operates between the east and west banks of the river by hauling on two chains, each of approximately 165m, which span across the estuary and are permanently attached to both river banks.

The depth of navigable water above the chains varies depending on the state of the tide height and the position of the ferry in relation to either the east or west riverbank. The depth of navigable water is deepest in the middle of the visible fairway and decreases rapidly towards either riverbank and the prow or ‘forward end’ of the ferry as the chains rise closer to the surface.

When the Chain Ferry is berthed on either riverbank and therefore not partway across the fairway, the least depth of navigable water over the chains is approximately 1.7m below chart datum in the middle of the visible fairway during the half tide period. Full survey diagrams are available on www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk.

During all tides, especially spring tides, there are strong currents associated with this area. The ebb flows are usually more pronounced than the flood.

The ebb tide is accentuated towards the eastern side of the river where the spring ebb may be in excess of 4 knots and cause the unwary to be set down upon the eastern bank especially in the area of the Trinity House Wharf (East Cowes) and the Red Funnel ferry terminal (East Cowes).

See Cowes Local Notice to Mariners No. 11 of 2012: Cowes Chain Ferry, at www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk/pages/notices.

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Jonathan Hoare

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Cowes Harbour General Directions .............................................................

The Cowes Harbour Revision Order (HRO) 2012 was approved by the Marine Management Organisation and came into force on 7 January 2013.

This HRO permits Cowes Harbour Commission to issue General Directions in order to create conditions conducive to promoting safe navigation, the safety of persons, and the protection of property, flora and fauna in Cowes Harbour.

The new General Directions will come into force on 1 April 2013. The General Directions will supersede the pre-existing Cowes Harbour Byelaws which, apart from Byelaw 34 (Chain Ferry), will be revoked; Byelaw 34 will remain in force whilst ongoing consultation continues with respect to the proposed changes.

Not to be used for navigation

Fairway

Gunard

Prince Consort

1 Egypt Point

Outer Harbour

2

Shrape Beacon Inner Harbour Small Craft Channel

Cowes

Old Castle Point

East Cowes

Cowes General Directions (as from 1 April 2013)

................................................................

The diagram above illustrates a few of the most significant implications of the new General Directions for craft navigating in Cowes Harbour.

Fairway: The ‘fairway’ is the area described by the magenta line and continues north of No. 1 and No. 2 lateral buoys. All vessels must comply with Rule 9 of the Collision Regulations (‘Navigation in Narrow Channels’) whilst navigating in the fairway.

Outer Harbour: The ‘outer harbour’ is the area within the harbour limits which is south of the black line and north of the green line on the diagram above. Vessels in this area must proceed at a safe speed.

Inner Harbour: the ‘inner harbour’ is the area south of the green line on the diagram above and extends south to the public house known as ‘the Folly Inn’. Vessels in this area shall not cause any wash or proceed at a speed greater than 6 knots through the water.

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Safe Navigation

.....................

Sailing boats are reminded to use propulsion, of any form, to keep clear of a merchant vessel that is under way in the fairway. In situations where the wind is light and an auxiliary engine available, it would be commensurate with the ordinary practice of good seamanship to have that engine ready for immediate use, well before a close quarters situation arises.

Detailed information on the Cowes Harbour Revision Order 2012 and the General Directions can be found at: www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk/pages/information.

Small Craft Channel

...........................

The small craft channel has been extended and re-marked, in order to improve the safety of navigation for craft using this channel. The small craft channel is a minimum of 35m wide, and is marked by three pairs of lit red and green lateral marks. The minimum depth of water in the channel is chart datum (0.0m), i.e. the minimum depth of water will be the height of tide.

See the following Cowes Local Notices to Mariners for more information: LNTM No. 11 of 2013: Approaches to Cowes Harbour LNTM No. 12 of 2013: Small Craft Channel LNTM No. 13 of 2013: Use of Engines by Sailing Vessels LNTM No. 14 of 2013: Cowes Harbour Fairway Cowes Local Notices may be viewed and downloaded from: www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk/pages/notices.

Cowes Harbour Commission Enforcement Policy

................................................................

Cowes Harbour Commission has a policy based on education in the first instance of an offence which generally reverts to prosecution for repeat offenders, or for offences bringing significant risk of injury or loss of life, or when users threaten or abuse members of Cowes Harbour Commission staff. Those in breach of a General Direction shall be guilty of an offence and liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding Level 4 on the standard scale (ÂŁ2,500).

CCTV: Cowes Harbour Commission uses CCTV for monitoring and enforcement purposes in Cowes Harbour.

COWES.co.uk

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Mooring Up ....................

There are a large number of visitor swinging moorings and river pontoons both in Cowes Harbour and upstream in the River Medina. The main marina facilities for visiting craft are at Shepards Wharf Marina, Cowes Yacht Haven, East Cowes Marina, and Island Harbour Marina. Visitor mooring charges are shown in this section, but note that special rates tend to apply during Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week, the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race, or for other major events, so it pays to enquire in advance.

River Medina

For river pontoons and swinging moorings, call ‘HM1’ on VHF Ch 69.

During busy periods you may well need to ‘raft up’ and when possible you should always, as a courtesy, hail the vessel you intend to moor alongside and request permission.

Trinity Landing

....................

The outside of this facility, on the fairway side of Trinity Landing, is for pick up and drop off only, and you may moor, with the vessel attended, for 10 minutes for free (ideal for landing or boarding crew). Mooring on the inside of the pontoon is for leisure craft and is available under the direction and control of the Cowes Harbour Master. Both water and metered electricity are available.

VHF Ch 69 call sign ‘HM1’.

Overnight mooring: £2.00 per metre Short stay: £1.00 per metre 20

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Trinity Landing

Rick Tomlinson

Cowes Roads Swinging Moorings

............................................

M Row: A row of heavy duty yellow swinging moorings is laid to the west of the harbour entrance between Egypt Point and the Royal Yacht Squadron, providing deep water moorings for vessels up to 25m in length (May to October).

VHF Ch 69 call sign ‘HM1’.

Overnight mooring: £1.35 per metre Short stays less than 4hrs from £5.20 Cowes Roads: Just outside the Shrape Breakwater, Rows H and J are laid to the east of the harbour entrance between May and September for vessels between 7-35m in length.

In addition, in July approximately 200 swinging moorings for small day class vessels are laid to the east of No. 2 buoy in preparation for Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week. Most other buoys south of No. 1 and 2 fairway buoys are licensed to residents.

VHF Ch 69 call sign ‘HM1’.

Overnight mooring: £1.35 per metre Short stays less than 4 hrs from £5.20

24/7 MARINE BREAKDOWN ASSISTANCE JOIN TODAY

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90% OF BOATS REPAIRED ON SCENE DEDICATED MARINE ENGINEERS WITH OWN FLEET OF RIBS HOME BERTH START AND UNLIMITED CALL OUTS

COWES.co.uk

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Town Quay

...............

Town Quay offers pontoon moorings for RIBs under 9m in length and a free scrubbing berth for vessels up to 10.6m in length. Cowes water taxis operate from Town Quay.

VHF Ch 69 call sign ‘HM1’.

Overnight mooring: £2.00 per metre Short stay: £1.00 per metre

Cowes Yacht Haven

..........................

The Yacht Haven offers access to the town centre. With 260 fully serviced berths, 24/7 access, a 30 ton hoist, and 15 ton mobile crane.

Facilities include WiFi, showers, toilets, launderette, on-site engineers, electricians and boat repairers. The Yacht Haven also has one of the largest major events and conference centres on the Island.

VHF Ch 80 call sign ‘Cowes Yacht Haven’. Tel: 01983 299975 Mooring: £2.46 per metre Sunday - Thursday £2.96 per metre Friday - Saturday www.cowesyachthaven.com info@cowesyachthaven.com This image has been manipulated to show the small craft channel.

NOT TO BE USED FOR NAVIGATION.

Small Craft Chnnel

Co

22

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Shepards Wharf Marina

................................

Shepards Wharf is just a few yards on from the Yacht Haven, offering competitive mooring fees with fully serviced berths, inclusive showers, free WiFi, CCTV, sanitation pump out, sail maker, dive shop, and Cowes’ newest restaurant Amabi offering traditional Basque cuisine.

Shepards Wharf is also a popular year round dry sailing centre catering for ribs, dayboats, and small cruisers up to 5t. Flexible packages, crane, and marine services available.

VHF Ch 80 call sign ‘Shepards Wharf’. Tel: 01983 293952 Mooring from £2.40 per metre per night Short stays: £0.95 per metre www.shepardswharfmarina.co.uk shepards.chc@cowes.co.uk

Shepards Wharf Marina

owes Yacht Haven

Town Quay

COWES.co.uk

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Whitegates Pontoons

.............................

The next set of visitor moorings are past the Chain Ferry on the port side, although you will need to use the water taxis or your dinghy to get ashore. These moorings are quiet and ideal for craft wishing to stay overnight in Cowes but outside of a marina. They represent excellent value and many are suitable for deep draught vessels.

VHF Ch 69 call sign ‘MH1’.

Moorings from £1.35 per metre Short stays less than 4hrs from £5.20

East Cowes Marina

..........................

Situated just a few minutes south of the Chain Ferry is Dean & Reddyhoff’s East Cowes Marina, which is accessible at all states of the tide and offers superb facilities for 360 berths (including visitors’ berths), fully serviced with electricity and water. The marina includes a launderette, excellent showers, toilets, free WiFi, berth holders’ car park, and the Lifeboat Inn (one of East Cowes’ favourite pubs).

VHF Ch 80 call sign ‘East Cowes Marina’. Tel: 01983 293983 Mooring: £2.75 per metre weekdays £3.06 per metre weekend www.eastcowesmarina.co.uk berths@eastcowesmarina.co.uk

l

l l

l

East Cowes Marina

Whitegates Pontoons

Cowes Harbour Fuels

24

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

l

Island Harbour

Folly Reach Cowes

Folly Reach

................

It can take as little as 20 minutes to motor to Folly Reach from the harbour entrance. Almost halfway up the River Medina, it is a world away from the hustle and bustle of Cowes and is designated as a ‘Site of Special Scientific Interest’. Please produce minimum wash in this area, keeping your speed below 6 knots. Pontoon moorings are available although most require use of a tender or the Folly water taxis to get ashore.

VHF Ch 72 call sign ‘Folly Launch’. Tel: 07884 400046 Moorings from £1.35 per metre Short stays less than 4hrs from £5.20 www.follymoorings.co.uk follywaterbus@msn.com

Island Harbour

....................

Island Harbour is situated just under half a mile upstream from the Folly Inn. It is accessed via lock gates up to 4 hours either side of High Water. The maximum draft is 2.5m over the sill of the lock.

Island Harbour is set in a beautiful and secluded valley, yet also offers easy access to Newport, Osborne House and (just once a year) the site of the Isle of Wight Festival. The peaceful marina offers over 200 berths for annual moorings and visiting yachts, an on-site bar/restaurant, a launderette, and free WiFi. Full marine services include a well-stocked chandlery and 50 ton travel hoist, free car parking for yachting visitors along with extensive hard standing. The harbour is exceptionally wellsheltered and dredged up to 2.5m.

VHF Ch 80 call sign ‘Island Harbour’. Tel: 01983 539994 Mooring: £2.75 per metre mid-week £3.00 per metre Friday - Saturday www.island-harbour.co.uk info@island-harbour.co.uk COWES.co.uk

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Newport Harbour

.......................

Located at the head of the River Medina, Newport Harbour is a journey back in time, and all the better for it. The harbour is close to the centre of Newport, county town of the Isle of Wight, which has a broad range of facilities including shops, chemists, and restaurants. The harbour is fully tidal, so if you plan to stay you will dry out against the harbour wall or on one of the pontoons. As an alternative, moor up against the Bargeman’s Rest for a longish (3 hours) lunch, and head back down the river with the ebb tide. Newport Quay is Isle of Wight Council operated.

VHF Ch 69 call sign ‘Newport Harbour’ Tel: 01983 525994 Leave a message and the Harbour Master will get back to you.

Mooring from £11.50 per night Short stays from £4.50

Newport Quay

Training Activities

........................

Cowes is the home of several maritime training establishments and a favourite destination for the many Solent-based sailing schools. Private owners and their crews also need to practise boat handling skills. Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC) welcomes both novice and experienced sailors.

A dedicated training pontoon is located east of the fairway immediately above Kingston. This is available for all to practice berthing manoeuvres.

The pontoon is secured by anchors rather than piles so it is less stable than other pontoons. It is not subject to regular pressure washing, therefore crews are discouraged from landing on the pontoon except in emergency and then only with great care. Crews should give consideration to others wishing to use this facility and not lie alongside unnecessarily. Other pontoons and mooring buoys can sometimes be used for training; please check availability with berthing masters, call sign ‘HM1’ on VHF Ch 69.

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Permanent Moorings

............................

The River Medina has a large number of permanent berths controlled by either Cowes Harbour Commission or various yacht clubs. If you plan to extend your stay, or would like a permanent mooring, Cowes offers exceptionally competitive rates on a seasonal or annual basis. Contact the CHC moorings team at Shepards Wharf Marina on Tel: 01983 297821.

Anchoring

..............

One of the few types of mooring not available in Cowes is anchoring.

There are simply too many obstructions, such as ground chains, so it is for all practical purposes forbidden. Osborne Bay, 2 miles east of the Shrape Breakwater has excellent holding ground, and the bay is reasonably well protected. Vessels up to 150m in length (usually visiting passenger vessels) may anchor in one of the dedicated anchorages in Cowes Roads by prior arrangement with the Cowes Harbour Master.

Navigating the River Medina

......................................

Once past the Chain Ferry, boatyards and commercial wharves, the Kingston power station comes into view. The red can buoys Nos. 8 and 10 mark the eastern side of the channel, thereafter the fairway is bounded by the swinging moorings to the east and pontoons to the west.

Vessels must stay below 6 knots and should proceed with caution either side of Low Water between the power station and the Folly Inn, where the depth in places is only 0.6m below chart datum.

The River Medina dries out upstream of the Folly, although vessels with 2m draft should have no difficulty getting to either Island Harbour or Newport Quay 2 hours before and up to 3 hours after High Water, dependent on the height of the tide. South of the Folly the channel is buoyed but not lit.

Once south of the Folly, the management of the River Medina passes from Cowes Harbour Commission to the Isle of Wight Council.

Island Harbour

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Information for Visiting Yachts ......................................................

Sally Water Taxi

Town Quay

Rick Tomlinson

Public Landings & Slipways

.....................................

West Cowes Whitegates pontoon, 500m south of the Cowes Chain Ferry on the west bank of the River Medina is connected to the shore and is suitable for tenders only.

Thetis Slip, between Thetis Wharf and Shepards Wharf Marina. Suitable for small vessels and not at Low Water.

Town Quay, on pontoons alongside the Red Jet terminal provides instant access to the High Street and associated amenities.

Sun Slip, adjacent to HSBC Bank, but is not easily accessible.

There is a similar slipway adjacent to The Waterside pub at the foot of Market Hill.

Watch House Slip, at the end of Watch House Lane at the south end of The Parade.

East Cowes The Folly, further up the River Medina, towards Newport. Be aware of possible strong tides when landing.

The White Hart, immediately south of the Red Funnel terminal. Use with caution during ebb tides and when ferries are manoeuvring.

Bells Landing, north of Venture Quays on the Esplanade, East Cowes. This landing is tidal.

Gridiron, immediately north of the Chain Ferry. Landing only; no mooring.

East Cowes Esplanade. A number of public slipways suitable for launching small craft at or around High Water.

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SeaMarks incorporate over 20 years’ experience of building and maintaining the UK’s largest hire stock of inflatable racing marks. Made from the highest quality materials with HF welded seams for maximum reliability. SeaMarks can be supplied with a banner attachment system that allows a sponsor’s message to be fitted that will not come off when being towed at high speed. Contact Seaflex for more information.

Inflatable Fenders All Seaflex fenders are constructed from first grade polyurethane coated high-tenacity polyamide base cloth. The coating provides extremely high abrasion and UV resistance (greater than Hypalon and PVC), coupled with excellent air retention and mechanical weld strength. The inflation/ deflation valve mates to many types of inflation pumps. End fittings are M12 stainless steel eyes. They allow suspension from horizontal to vertical. These low-pressure fenders provide highenergy absorption. Deflated units needing only about 10% of the normal storage space.

Drogue Anchors Developed in response to a requirement by the RNLI, two sizes of drogue were constructed. The Seaward Drogue is used to help prevent the Lifeboats broaching in heavy following seas.

The smaller Seaward Yacht Drogue are designed to be streamed from the casualty under tow and prevent her over-running the towing lifeboat.

Anchor Recovery Bag A lightweight range of the commercially proven Air Lift Bag, the 25, 50 and 100kg Bags are equally useful to sports divers involved in underwater recovery of small items or commercial divers wishing to de-ballast tools or equipment for easy underwater management. All Anchor Bags comply with the currently accepted offshore standard; IMCA D016 - Air Lift Bags. Units are designed and type tested to a safety factor in excess of the required 5:1 and constructed under BS EN IS0 9001:2008 controlled procedures.

Seaflex Emergency Buoyancy Seaflex Emergency Buoyancy System is mounted to the underside of the fore and after deck heads within the bulkhead compartments, a hydrostatic valve mounted within the cabin area is connected to suitably sized cylinders and in turn connected to each Buoyancy Bag. In the event of an emergency the hydrostatic valve activates and inflates the bags, which would generate sufficient buoyancy to keep the yacht afloat buying time for the crew to be rescued and or the yacht to be towed ashore.

Hydrostatic Valve mounted within Cabin Area at a suitable height.

Complete with cover plate to prevent accidental discharge.

Suitably sized enclosed Buoyancy Unit.

Complete with pressure relief valve and Inflation Port, packed using sacrificial webbing designed to break on inflation .

01 Rev

11.02.13 Date

Initial Issue Description

GJP Drawn

GSB Checked

Suitably sized Cylinder mounted on a backplate with remotely operated firing head.

SEAVIEW ROAD COWES ISLE OF WIGHT ENGLAND PO31 7US

SEAFLEX LTD Seaview Road, Cowes, IW, PO31 7US Tel: +44 1983 290525 Email: bmb@seaflex.co.uk www.seaflex.co.uk

TEL: +441 983 290 525 www.seaflex.co.uk

TITLE

Seaflex Auto-Inflation System Details SCALE

DATE

N.T.S @ A4

11.02.2013

DRAWN

GJP

COWES.co.uk DRAWING No.

AIS - SEAFLEX - RD

CHECKED

GSB REVISION

01

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Getting Ashore by Tender or Water Taxi

....................................................

The most common landing place is Town Quay for West Cowes and Gridiron for East Cowes, however other locations can be used.

All harbour areas - Cowes Harbour Taxi VHF Ch 77.

Tel: 07855 767918 - Summer only All harbour areas - Sally Water Taxi VHF Ch 6.

Tel: 07831 331717 - All year Cowes to Folly Inn - Folly Waterbus VHF Ch 77.

Tel: 07974 864627 Folly Reach Moorings to Folly Inn - Folly Water Taxi VHF Ch 72.

Tel: 07884 400046 Island Harbour to Cowes or Newport - Island Harbour Ferry VHF Ch 8.

Tel: 07825 016943 or 07964 075621

Fresh Water

................

Fresh water is available from all marinas, Trinity Landing, and Town Quay.

Garbage

............

Marinas provide facilities for garbage originating from the boats using their berths. Boats moored in the River Medina or at anchor should retain garbage on board until berthed alongside, or take it ashore to facilities situated adjacent to public landings.

Using the river to dispose of rubbish of any kind is illegal.

Fuel & Gas

...............

Cowes Harbour Fuels, open seven days a week, is the main facility in Cowes Harbour providing easy access and competitively priced fuel. It is situated on the River Medina, 200m south of the Chain Ferry underneath the large hammerhead crane. Tel: 01983 200716. VHF Ch 69.

Lallow’s Boatyard, 50m south of the Yacht Haven. Tel: 01983 292112.

Cowes Harbour Fuels

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FOLLY WATERBUS VHF 77 07974 864627 FOLLY LAUNCH VHF 72 07974 864627 Scrubbing Berths

.......................

Town Quay adjacent to the Harbour Office. Suitable for vessels up to 10.6m LOA and 2m draft at spring tides and 1.0m draft at neap tides.

Folly Inn scrubbing berth capable of taking vessels up to 10.6m LOA and 1.83m draft at spring tides. Bookings by application to the Folly Harbour Office on Tel: 07884 400046.

Medical Help

.................

If you are afloat and have a medical emergency call Solent Coastguard on VHF Ch 16/67. The designated medical emergency landing site is Trinity Landing, off Cowes Parade.

Cowes has a Medical Centre at 200 Newport Road, PO31 7ER. It is open Monday - Friday from 0800 to 1800 with late opening until 2000 on Mondays and Wednesdays. For appointments Tel: 01983 295251.

A&E service is at St Mary’s Hospital, Parkhurst Road, Newport, PO30 5TG. The Beacon Health Centre at St Mary’s Hospital, Newport provides a seven day a week ‘Walk In’ service from 0800 to 2000 daily, where a GP is available for most minor illnesses or health problems.

East Cowes Medical Centre is next to Waitrose, in Church Path, East Cowes, PO32 6RP. It is open Monday - Friday from 0830 to 1830 with late opening to 2000 on Mondays. For appointments Tel: 01983 284333.

Prohibited Activities

...........................

Cowes welcomes all leisure visitors. In order to ensure the safety of mariners some activities are restricted or prohibited.

Fishing from the Shrape Breakwater is prohibited. Fishing gear is not to be laid amongst moorings or in any channel or fairway, and where laid elsewhere in the harbour they should be correctly marked.

You cannot swim, water ski, board sail, or kite surf in the Cowes fairway, small craft channel, or within any mooring areas without the written permission of the Harbour Master.

C WES HARBOUR

COMMISSION

The COWES App Cowes at your fingertips!

Free to download from the Apple app store COWES.co.uk

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Weather ................

In the UK, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is responsible for the provision of Maritime Safety Information (MSI) to ships at sea, which includes both weather information and navigational warnings.

....................................................................

Solent Coastguard

A full Maritime Safety Information service is available on NAVTEX (518 and 490 kHz).

Solent & Portland Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) broadcasts on: Channels VHF 23, VHF 84, and VHF 86.

MSI is broadcast in local time such that the ‘clock time’ that the broadcasts will be received at will remain the same throughout the year: 0130 - B 0430 - C 0730 - A 1030 - C 1330 - B 1630 - C 1930 - A 2230 - C Routine A - Full Maritime Safety Information broadcast, including new inshore forecast and outlook, gale warnings, shipping forecast, navigation warnings (WZ), SUBFACTS and GUNFACTS where appropriate, three day fisherman’s forecast when and where appropriate.

Routine B - New inshore forecast plus previous outlook, gale warnings.

Routine C - Repetition of inshore forecast and gale warnings as per previous Routine A or B broadcast plus new strong wind warning (SWW).

....................................................................

BBC Shipping Forecast

Weather bulletins for shipping are broadcast daily on BBC Radio 4 at the following times: 0048, 0520, 1201 and 1754 (local time).

All broadcasts are on long wave (LW) 1515m (198 kHz) and some transmissions are on VHF. It gives a summary of gale warnings, a general synopsis and forecasts for specified areas around the UK. The radio bulletin also includes the coastal weather reports (0048 and 0536 only).

....................................................................

Weather information is also available from marinas, harbour offices, Radio Solent, Isle of Wight Radio and the Bramblemet weather station.

Radio Solent DAB radio, FM 96.1 and FM 103.8 www.bbc.co.uk/radiosolent Isle of Wight Radio FM 107 & FM 102 www.iwradio.co.uk Bramblemet Weather reports from Bramble Bank in the centre of the Solent. www.bramblemet.co.uk

....................................................................

Full Cowes Tide Tables from April 2013 to March 2014 are printed at the back of this Handbook. A tide gauge and five day weather forecast is available on www.COWES.co.uk.

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T-Shirts • Sweat Shirts • Polo Shirts • Rugby Shirts Drill Shirts Caps & Hats • Fleeces • Shirts • Jackets Knitwear • Trousers & Shorts • Childrenswear Towelling • Luggage & Bags • Belts & Accessories Workwear • Flags, Banners & Dodgers

oceanworld.co.uk

Personalised clothing and accessories Have your club, company, team, university etc logo added to our huge range of clothing and accessories Full inhouse embroidery and printing service Tel: 01983 291744 International: +44 1983 291744 Email: info@oceanworld.co.uk www.oceanworld.co.uk COWES.co.uk

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Safety Afloat .......................

Cowes is a great place to visit and with your help, will stay a safe place to enjoy going afloat. Keeping safe is not just about having the right kit, it is also about assessing the risks, practising safety drills and making sure your crew are briefed and equipped for the prevailing sailing conditions.

Jonathan Hoare

Personal Safety

.....................

The beginning of this Handbook lays proper stress on safe navigation and the strong tidal flows that occur in and around Cowes Harbour. Harbour Commission staff wear lifejackets for very good reasons; falling in the water, even in the harbour, can be life threatening on the most pleasant of sunny days.

Children also follow the example set by adults, so it is common sense and good practice to wear your lifejacket. Keeping warm is also a critical part of keeping a crew safe, so having the right clothing to hand is an important part of the skipper’s safety prep.

There are more serious and fatal accidents going to and returning from shore in small tenders than whilst at sea.

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Be Prepared

.................

Going out on the water can be a lot of fun and is a way of life in coastal communities around the UK, but the sea can be an unpredictable and dangerous place. Taking some simple precautions can make your time on the water even more enjoyable and reduce your chances of getting into trouble.

The Solent is an amazing stretch of water for the sheer variety of conditions that it throws up.

A very pleasant Force 3-4 blowing from the west will Paul Wyeth make for relatively calm sailing while the tide is flooding, but a very choppy experience when the tide turns and it becomes wind against tide. Safe sailing means being prepared for all eventualities.

Does Anyone Know?

...........................

Make sure someone ashore knows where you are going, the number of people on board and your estimated arrival time. Contact them when you have arrived. Conversely, don’t be reluctant to contact the Coastguard if you know someone is overdue. If they are in trouble the alert you raise could be vital. You can contact the Coastguard on Tel: 02392 552100 or for routine traffic use VHF Ch 67 call sign ‘Solent Coastguard’.

If you see someone in difficulty on the water, ring the emergency number 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Paul Wyeth

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Cowes RNLI ......................

Cowes RNLI Lifeboat Station is located on The Parade, next door to the Island Sailing Club. This new station (occupying the former H.M. Customs Watch House) was officially opened

by Her Majesty The Queen as part of her Diamond Jubilee visit to Cowes in July 2012. It houses the Atlantic 85 Rib B859 Sheena Louise crewed entirely by volunteers who live in the port.

Sheena Louise

Chris Boynton

Sheena Louise, named by Sheena’s mother Mrs Bertha Pollock on the day of the Queen’s visit, is the 1,036th lifeboat built at the RNLI’s Inshore Lifeboat Centre in East Cowes and can be viewed by the public. She launches on exercise every Thursday at approximately 1930.

Cowes is one of the busier lifeboat stations belonging to the RNLI, with the large crew of volunteers on pager 24 hours a day. They arrive at the station ready to launch in minutes.

Visit www.rnli.org.uk, call Cowes Inshore Lifeboat Station on Tel: 01983 299387, or email: cowes@rnli.org.uk.

Nick Edwards - Cowes RNLI

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HM Customs & Excise .......................................

All vessels arriving from outside the UK should advise UK Customs and Immigration by HARBOUR submitting a declaration containing the vessel COMMISSION name, date, starting point, destination, contact number, persons on board including names, date of birth, place of birth, nationality and passport number.

C WES

Panerai British Classic Week

Hamo Thornycroft

This should be sent to UKIS Border Control at Portsmouth by email to INDUKISPORT@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk or Tel: +44 (0) 845 723 1110.

The procedure for leaving the UK or returning from abroad is detailed in booklet Notice No. 8 obtainable from HM Customs: www.hmrc.gov.uk.

Outward bound for non-EU countries including the Channel Islands Complete the form C1331 part 1 sections i and ii.

Deliver to HMRC by handing to a Customs Officer or putting it into a Customs post box sited at Cowes Yacht Haven, (do not place it in a post office box).

Retain part 2 (blue copy) on board.

Inward bound from non-EU countries including the Channel Islands Fly the ‘Q’ flag.

Complete sections i and iii of part 2 (blue copy) form C1331.

Contact Customs either in person or by phoning 0845 723 1110.

Part 2 of C1331 from an outward voyage may be used as the Document Report.

Do not take down the ‘Q’ flag until Customs clearance has been given.

Customs Officers have the right to board yachts and question crew. For advice call the National Advice Service on Tel: 0845 010 9000.

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Onwards from Cowes ......................................

The information below is provided to help you plan your trip onwards from Cowes; distances in nautical miles.

Weymouth 46nm Weymouth Harbour Master: Peter Mole VHF Ch 12 01305 838423 Weymouth Marina

01305 767576

..............................................

Poole Harbour 27nm (entrance) Poole Harbour Master: Capt Brian Murphy VHF Ch 14

01202 440230 Cobb’s Quay Marina 01202 674299 Lake Yard Marina

01202 674531 Parkstone Yacht Haven 01202 738824 Poole Quay Boat Haven 01202 649488 Salterns Marina

01202 709971

..............................................

Yarmouth 9nm Yarmouth Harbour Master: Chris Lisher VHF Ch 68

01983 760321

..............................................

Lymington 10nm Lymington Harbour Master: Ryan Willegers No VHF service

01590 672014 Berthon Lymington Marina 01590 647405 Lymington Yacht Haven 01590 677071

..............................................

Beaulieu River 2.5nm (entrance) Beaulieu River Harbour Master: Mike Nicholls No VHF service 01590 616200 Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour 01590 616200

..............................................

Newtown Creek 5nm (entrance) Newtown Harbour Master: David Flannagan No VHF service

01983 531424

..............................................

Hamble River 6nm (entrance) River Hamble Harbour Master: David Evans VHF Ch 68

01489 576387 Hamble Point Marina 02380 452464 Mercury Yacht Harbour 02380 455994 Port Hamble Marina 02380 452741 Swanwick Marina

01489 884081 Universal Marina

01489 574272

..............................................

Southampton 9nm Southampton Harbour Master: Capt Martin Phipps VHF Ch 12

02380 608208 Hythe Marina Village 02380 207073 38

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Kemp’s Quay

02380 632323 Ocean Village Marina 02380 229385 Saxon Wharf

02380 339490 Shamrock Quay Marina 02380 229461 Town Quay Marina

02380 234397

..............................................

Wootton Creek 4nm Royal Victoria Yacht Club No VHF service

01983 882325

..............................................

Ryde 6nm Ryde Harbour Master: Dave Brown VHF Ch 80

01983 613879

..............................................

Bembridge Harbour 10nm Bembridge Harbour Master: Chris Turvey VHF Ch 80

01983 872828

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Jonathan Hoare

Portsmouth 10nm Queen’s Harbour Master: Commander Nigel Hare VHF Ch 11 02392 723694 Gosport Marina

02392 524811 Gunwharf Quays Marina 02392 836732 Haslar Marina

02392 601201 Port Solent Marina

02392 210765 Royal Clarence Marina 02392 523523 Town Quay (Camber) 02392 833166

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Langstone Harbour 12nm (entrance) Langstone Harbour Master: Capt Nigel Jardine VHF Ch 12

02392 463419 Southsea Marina

02392 822719

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Chichester Harbour 15nm (entrance) Chichester Harbour Master: Richard Craven VHF Ch 14

01243 512301 Birdham Pool Marina 01243 512310 Chichester Marina

01243 512731 Emsworth Yacht Harbour 01243 377727 Northney Marina

02392 466321 Sparkes Marina

02392 463572 Thornham Marina

01243 375335

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Littlehampton 36nm Littlehampton Marina

01903 713553

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Shoreham 49nm Lady Bee Marina

01273 593801

Brighton 53nm Brighton Marina

01273 819919 COWES.co.uk

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Beautiful Wight Images

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Lymington Harbour

Around the Solent ................................

Cowes is in the enviable position of being one of the UK’s most popular destination harbours, in the centre of the most popular sailing area in the country. Its location at the heart of the Solent, halfway between Weymouth and Brighton, makes other harbours easily accessible from Cowes, particularly with an ebb or flood tide.

The Solent, a strait separating the Isle of Wight from mainland England, is sheltered by the Isle of Wight and has a complex tidal pattern. The Solent area has great ecological and landscape importance, particularly because of the coastal and estuarine habitats.

The Solent’s sheltered natural harbours and inshore waters are renowned internationally for their recreational value as an ideal location for leisure sailing and other watersports. There are sheltered harbours and creeks for novices and open water for the more experienced. Exploring the Solent by sea is a fantastic way to appreciate the area’s landscapes and seascapes, enjoy the fresh air and get some exercise!

Here follows a brief guide to some of the most popular ports, harbours, and creeks of the Solent. Useful contact numbers for harbours and marinas between Weymouth and Brighton can be also be found in the ‘Onwards from Cowes’ section on page 38.

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Ryan Willegers

Picturesque Yarmouth Harbour, a unique blend of ancient and modern, lies at the mouth of the Western Yar Estuary on the north coast of West Wight. There is a Wightlink car ferry service to Lymington in the New Forest. The harbour entrance can become very congested and great caution is to be taken when entering or leaving the harbour. Vessels must adhere to the speed limits, 4 knots maximum within the inner harbour, and 6 knots maximum elsewhere within the harbour limits. More navigational information can be found at www.yarmouth-harbour.co.uk.

Bustling Yarmouth town offers superlative architecture with excellent facilities and traditional shops, all within two minutes of the very pretty harbour. The Yarmouth Pier is a Grade II listed structure, reputedly the longest wooden pier in the UK, and a great place to take in the views of the Solent. Yarmouth is also an excellent base from which to explore the West Wight. The town hosts the popular, annual Old Gaffers Festival, taking place in 2013 from 31 May – 2 June.

Located between Beaulieu and Keyhaven on the mainland, at the western end of the Solent, scenic Lymington Harbour is shared by yachtsmen, fishermen, and the Isle of Wight ferry (from Yarmouth). Renowned as a sailing resort, there are two large marinas, two sailing clubs, and at the Town Quay berths for around 120 visiting boats within a couple of minutes walk of the town centre with its numerous restaurants, bars, and shopping facilities.

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The speed limit in Lymington Harbour is 6 knots with an advisory limit of 4 knots upstream of the wave screens near the entrance to Lymington Yacht Haven. There is a double High Water at springs which gives a stand of 3 hours. At neaps there is a stand of 2 hours. Find out more at: www.lymingtonharbour.co.uk.

Lymington is a beautiful Georgian town with a wide variety of shops ranging from smart boutiques on the cobbled quay to the larger supermarkets and a bustling market in the High Street every Saturday.

The New Forest National Park with its ancient woodlands and heathlands offers miles of unspoilt walks, cycle ways, and pretty villages to explore.

Newtown Harbour, to the east of Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight, is a beautiful retreat that has something to offer boat owners, walkers, wildlife enthusiasts and historians - or just those in search of peace and tranquility.

Newtown Harbour is a National Nature Reserve, owned and managed by the National Trust, comprising areas of estuary and foreshore with extensive mudflats and saltmarsh, together with adjacent meadows and woodland. The best times to visit the site are between April and June, for butterflies and songbirds, and September and October for wildfowl. The estuary is probably the best example of an undisturbed natural harbour on the south coast.

Set within the heart of the New Forest National Park in Hampshire, the lovely Beaulieu River and the 18th century shipbuilding village of Buckler’s Hard occupy a superb location in the central Solent, close to the sailing centres of Cowes, Lymington, and Southampton. The river has a 110 berth marina, over 300 moorings, and a boat park with slipway.

Beaulieu River benefits from a double tide, and a secondary High Water.

The navigation channel at the mouth of the river is defined with red and green piles and further upstream, branches of willow painted red and green known as ‘withies’ are used. The speed limit is 5 knots for the entire length of the river. Further details are available at www.beaulieuriver.co.uk.

Beaulieu River is part of the Beaulieu Estate and is one of the few privately owned rivers in the world. The river is largely unspoilt, both in terms of its landscape and as a haven for wildlife with the banks playing host to an exceptional variety of habitat with an equally varied flora and fauna.

The River Hamble, also in Hampshire, and at the heart of the Solent, is a major centre for all types of recreational boating and home to thousands of sailing yachts and motorboats. Whether your interest is racing, powerboating, or blue water cruising, the Hamble is a true yachting Mecca and can provide all the facilities you might require. For more information visit: www3.hants.gov.uk/hambleharbour.

There are four sailing clubs along the River Hamble and three marinas with over 3,000 moorings. The double tides, deep water, and ease of access to the Solent make the River Hamble ideal for sailing.

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Visitors to the Hamble are made very welcome and there is plenty to do on and off the river. The beautiful river is a birdwatchers’ paradise; riverside walks or simply watching the world go by are popular pastimes.

There’s a well known, bright pink ferry which operates all year round up and down the river between the two waterside villages of Hamble and Warsash, and according to local research, has done since at least 1493!

The historic maritime city of Southampton in Hampshire is regarded as the cruise capital of northern Europe and plays host to over four million visitors a year. However, the city is much more than just a cruise stop or shopping destination. Its appeal lies in its diverse nightlife, exciting retail opportunities, varied leisure facilities, superb art and heritage attractions, lively events programme, and of course the excitement and charm of a bustling waterfront location.

Yachting and leisure boating are extremely popular in sheltered Southampton Water with a unique double tide contributing to 17 hours of High Water each day.

Chris Boynton

The principal deep water navigational channels within the port of Southampton are well marked by buoys and lights. These channels are in constant use by commercial vessels, including large deep-draught tankers, container ships, ferries, and other traffic. Recreational users of the harbour are advised to keep well clear of these main channels whenever possible, and use the recommended crossing areas. Full navigational information is available at www.southamptonvts.co.uk.

The Southampton Boat Show is the biggest water-based boat show in Europe and has been held every September since 1969 in Mayflower Park. This year the PSP Southampton Boat Show takes place from 13-22 September 2013.

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Wootton Creek is a pretty, tidal estuary that flows into the Solent on the north coast of the Isle of Wight, just 5 miles east of Cowes. On the western bank of the creek is Wootton village, whilst on the eastern bank is the village of Fishbourne.

Wootton Creek has a very ancient history and has been used as a waterway and port for thousands of years. Today, it has become a popular haunt for leisure yachtsmen and RIB enthusiasts, with several creekside businesses supporting a variety of maritime activities.

Visitors are welcome at the Royal Victoria Yacht Club which is situated at the entrance to the creek, adjacent to the Wightlink Fishbourne ferry terminal. You can moor your boat alongside the club pontoon for a short stay or overnight. Anchoring in the mouth of the creek is not permitted.

Food is available at the club and the nearest shops are at Wootton Bridge, about 30 minutes’ walk away.

Ryde Harbour is a small leisure harbour located just east of Ryde Pier on the northeast coast of the Isle of Wight. The harbour has provision for up to 100 visiting boats, the majority of which are family sailing and motor cruisers varying in length from 5-10m. The harbour dries out completely at Low Water and access for small craft of 1m draught is about 2 hours either side of High Water. Find out more at www.rydeharbour.co.uk.

Public transport to all parts of the Island, plus Wightlink’s Fast Cat passenger service and the Hover Travel hovercraft to the mainland are situated to the west of the harbour. The Island Line train service meets the Fast Cat before travelling down the Isle of Wight’s southeast coast via Brading and Sandown, terminating at Shanklin.

Ryde has miles of sandy beach which at low tide creates a vast playground for all manner of seaside fun. The town and seafront are packed with an array of pubs, restaurants, and shops. Six miles of beaches connect Ryde to the villages of Seaview and Bembridge to the east which makes for a wonderful walk or cycle ride.

As one of the busiest harbours in the country, Portsmouth Harbour boasts a grand total of 117,000 significant movements each year and has over 5,000 yachts with a license to moor. The naturally occurring harbour, a valley formed of the stream flowing from Portsmouth into the Solent, is very large and is almost completely landlocked except for a narrow entrance, with all its approaches well sheltered by the Isle of Wight.

To the east of Portsmouth Harbour lies Portsea Island, and to the west the mainland town of Gosport. At its north end is Portchester Castle, a fortress that was built to protect the harbour in Roman times; providing the city with a charming backdrop where poignant moments in history contrast with a modern waterfront to create a contemporary and interesting city.

Lifestyle attractions include the Gunwharf Quays shopping centre, a lively arts scene, great restaurants and bars, and the impressive 170m tall Spinnaker Tower with its fabulous views over the harbour and the Solent.

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Portsmouth Harbour & Porchester Castle

Portsmouth City Council

Due to its strategic location on the south coast of England, Portsmouth has long been a key location in the country’s sea defences and it is well known for being the home of the Royal Navy and the iconic HMS Illustrious.

The city’s proud maritime heritage continues with the presence of the Historical Dockyard, home to HMS Victory and the Mary Rose among others. In modern times, the harbour has become a major commercial ferry port, with regular services to France and The Channel Islands.

To facilitate the safe passage of small craft entering and leaving Portsmouth Harbour, a ‘small boat channel’ exists for vessels under 20m on the western side of the harbour entrance.

Observe the speed limit of 10 knots and avoid sailing in the commercial shipping channels, especially in poor visibility. Obey Rule 9 of the Collision Regulations for conduct in narrow channels by keeping to the starboard side of the channel and crossing only when this does not impede the passage of a large vessel that can safely navigate only within the narrow channel. Full navigational information can be found at: www.qhm.mod.uk/portsmouth.

Located at the eastern-most point of the Isle of Wight, Bembridge Harbour is home to two vibrant sailing clubs, a fishing fleet, and numerous businesses associated with water-based activities. Access to the harbour is restricted to High Water + 3 hours for vessels drawing 1.5m. The harbour offers a range of moorings from walk-ashore pontoons to middle of the harbour drying moorings that are served by water taxi. A harbour navigation guide can be found at www.bembridgeharbour.co.uk.

There’s plenty to occupy visitors to this beautiful, unspoilt and historic corner of the Island. The area in and around Bembridge Harbour has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and includes an RSPB site.

There are numerous walks, nature trails and beautiful beaches to enjoy, and a busy harbour where there’s always something interesting to watch.

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Emsworth, Chichester Harbour

The Bembridge RNLI lifeboat station operates both offshore and inshore lifeboats and is usually open to the public for free guided tours during the summer months.

The nearby villages of Bembridge and St Helens offer a wide choice of shops, restaurants, and pubs and are well worth exploring. Art, crafts, and local produce abound and freshly caught seafood is available.

Langstone Harbour is located on the southeast coast of Hampshire, with Chichester Harbour to the east and Portsmouth Harbour to the west. The large, undeveloped harbour, with over 4,500 acres of water space at High Water, has supported commercial shipping, fishing and recreational boating for many years. The speed limit is 10 knots and you are requested not to cause disturbance; Langstone Harbour is a site of considerable ecological sensitivity. Visit www.langstoneharbour.org.uk for full navigational information.

The natural tranquility of the unspoilt harbour environment can be enjoyed whether under sail or power. There are moorings available for boats up to 12m and public slipways for visitors with trailed boats.

One third of the Langstone Harbour tidal estuary is an RSPB reserve and consists mostly of intertidal mud but includes five small islands composed 46

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John Tweddell

of saltmarsh and shingle ridges. Apart from a landing area for recreational boat users on one of the islands, access to the reserve is restricted.

Chichester Harbour in West Sussex offers visitors a panorama of choice with six marinas, pretty villages, plenty of visitor moorings, good anchoring, and a selection of sandy beaches to explore. The harbour is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest in recognition of its significance as a habitat for wildlife.

The low lying entrance to Chichester Harbour is not easily distinguished against the backdrop of the South Downs and is bordered on both sides by extensive drying banks. A deep-water channel running between these banks to the harbour entrance is dredged to a charted depth of 1.5m.

The width of the dredged channel across the Bar is a less than 200 yards.

The speed limit throughout the harbour is 8 knots. For more navigational information go to www.conservancy.co.uk.

The sheltered waters of the harbour are ideal for racing and day sailing and its channels offer secure moorings for cruising vessels. Some 10,000 craft share the fabulous recreational facilities of Chichester Harbour and there are around 5,500 moorings and 14 sailing clubs with over 11,000 members! Other popular activities include angling, bird watching, walking, wild-fowling, painting, and photography.

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Landmarks of Cowes ......................................

There are several instantly recognisable landmarks in Cowes; here is a selection of the best known, ranging from historic houses and pubs to castles and cranes.

Royal Yacht Squadron

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Royal Yacht Squadron

Rick Tomlinson

One of the most famous local landmarks is ‘Cowes Castle’, home to the Royal Yacht Squadron which was founded in 1815 as a club for gentlemen interested in sea yachting. From the water, the yachtsman sees the Squadron Castle as battlements, a round tower, and a flagstaff. Behind the history of yachting is another history too, for Henry VIII had the castle built in 1539 as a deterrent to the French. Its former guns are only once known to have been fired in anger, in 1642 during the Civil War.

Prince’s Green

...................

Prince’s Green, also known as ‘The Green’, is by far the best place to watch racing action from the shore. Race starts frequently take place from the Royal Yacht Squadron and during Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week race fleets often finish under spinnaker from the west. Prince’s Green was presented to Cowes as a public open space by George Stephenson in 1863 to mark the occasion of the wedding of the Prince of Wales (the future Edward VII) to Princess Alexandra of Denmark. It still has shelters and a drinking fountain dating from Princes Green Rick Tomlinson Victorian times.

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Cowes Parade

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Cowes Parade

The seafront parade stretches from the starting cannons at the Royal Yacht Squadron down to the Island Sailing Club. Both the Royal Corinthian and Royal London Yacht Clubs are also located on The Parade, one of the main centres of activity for big events.

In Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week, ‘The Parade Village’ is a perfect place to see all the action, catch up on the racing results and soak up the atmosphere whilst sitting in the decked garden or wandering through the retail village and food court.

Venture Quays

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Venture Quays

The giant of British industry, Saunders Roe, built the famous Columbine Shed in East Cowes in 1935. The company built many sea planes including the largest ever metal seaplane The Princess. Today, the shed is publicly-owned but remains home to cutting edge technology such as the innovative Vestas Sailrocket 2 which broke the outright World Speed Sailing Record in 2012. The giant Union Flag was originally painted on the doors in 1977 to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II; it was restored to its former glory to celebrate a truly historic British year on the occasion of HM The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

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Cowes Hammerhead Crane

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Cowes Hammerhead Crane

Standing proud on the Cowes skyline is the 1912 hammerhead dockyard crane, a magnificent symbol of Cowes’ marine industrial heritage and the many ships, aircraft and hovercraft that have been built on both sides of the Medina River. This 80 ton crane was designed by Babcock and Wilcox and ordered by Cowes shipbuilder J.S. White in 1911 and came into use the following year. It is the only remaining pre-World War One hammerhead crane in England.

Northwood House

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Northwood House

Hamo Thornycroft

Northwood House is an early-Victorian Grade II listed house with beautifully painted function rooms and surrounded by parkland, occupying a prime position above Cowes town. It was built in the early 19th century for the Ward family, in whose hands it remained until 1929. In that year the house was presented by the family to the then Cowes Urban District Council, while the 26-acre park was given ‘for the use and benefit of the people of Cowes’. This iconic residence is a popular venue for events such as weddings, parties, dinners, and conferences. The park is surrounded by a wall of Bembridge limestone and includes St Mary’s Church with its landmark clock tower designed by John Nash.

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Folly Inn

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Legend has it that the name of the Folly originated from a French smuggling barge that ran aground in the 1700’s selling illegal alcohol!

Whether this is true or not, the Folly Inn has a unique, rustic appearance and remains one of the must-visit places for many thirsty yachtsmen who are prepared to venture up the River Medina.

Osborne House

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Osborne House

English Heritage

No trip to the Island would be complete without a visit to this royal seaside palace where Queen Victoria lived with her beloved Prince Albert and their nine children. Osborne House provides an intimate glimpse into Queen Victoria’s family life and one can only marvel at the magnificence of the Royal apartments such as the sumptuous drawing and dining rooms and the richly decorated Indian-inspired Durbar Room. There are stunning views from the terraces across the Solent, said to remind Prince Albert of the bay of Naples. Don’t miss the miniature Swiss Cottage as you stroll through Osborne’s extensive grounds, built to teach the royal children the art of household management!

You can even explore Queen Victoria’s private beach which is now open to the public. “We have quite a charming beach to ourselves,” Victoria wrote in 1845; it was here that the Queen regularly bathed and where her children learned to swim.

To get to Osborne House from Cowes, you can either take the Chain Ferry over to East Cowes and walk up the hill to Osborne House, a good 15 minute walk, or take the Southern Vectis No. 4 or No. 5 buses from East Cowes town centre, both of which stop outside Osborne House. Read more about Osborne House on page 56.

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Shopping in Cowes & East Cowes .........................

supported by the CBA

Rick Tomlinson

You’ll find a unique range of independent boutique shopping - the best in retail and services from the High Streets of Cowes and East Cowes.

Whether you need an individual gift, new outfit, cash machine or a chemist; a marine photographer, a gallery filled with local talent, or a jewellers, this is the place to find what you need.

Cowes boasts an excellent range of distinctive shops, many - but by no means all - catering for the yachting fraternity. You can shop until you drop along Birmingham Road, down Shooters Hill, through the High Street, and right to the end of Bath Road that runs into Cowes Parade.

Most of the High Street in Cowes is pedestrianised, making shopping a delight. The town also has an array of fashionable clothing shops, with independent retailers as well as famous brands.

Stroll through the town and explore the lovely shops, photographers’ stores and art galleries, or curio and craft shops, then head for The Parade or ‘The Green’ to enjoy the sun, sea views, and an ice cream.

When hunger or thirst calls there are ample delicatessens, cafés, restaurants, and lively pubs to choose from, or pick up traditional fish and chips to eat on The Parade whilst watching the world sail by.

Personalised clothing and accessories oceanworld.co.uk Tel: 01983 291744

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Have your club, company, team, university etc logo added to a range of clothing and accessories. mail@worldleisurewear.com

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Rock on the Dock

GOURMET SWEETS AND TREATS AND GIFTS FOR ALL. PRIVATE PARTIES, WEDDINGS AND CORPORATE PROMOTIONAL SERVICE 9 the Arcade, Cowes, PO31 7AR 01983 293463 www.rockonthedock.co.uk

Take a trip on the Chain Ferry over the River Medina to East Cowes where you’ll find a good range of shops in the centre offering everything from unusual and interesting gifts, antiques and collectibles, to DIY and pet stores.

Then walk down to the Esplanade in East Cowes and enjoy some refreshments right on the seafront.

Shopping in Cowes is an exciting experience at any time of the year, and in particular, the vibrancy of the town during prestigious events such as the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race, Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week, and Panerai British Classic Week, is not to be missed.

In August, there is an amazing festival atmosphere throughout the town whilst Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week is on, and over 100,000 visitors come to Cowes just to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the week long celebrations at one of the world’s greatest sailing regattas.

Benzie of Cowes

Rock on the Dock

Cowes and East Cowes are small towns with a friendly, cosmopolitan atmosphere and you’ll receive a warm welcome at any time of year. We hope to see you there!

Cowes Business Association: promoting partnership and supporting business in Cowes and its surrounding areas.

Visit www.cowesbusiness.org.uk or email office@cowesbusiness.org.uk.

Jolliffes Chandlery

Freshwater Bay Pearls available at

Freshwater Bay

GREEN BUOY ARTS

Pearl

The home of Isle of Wight artists in the centre of COWES. 01983 716292 / 0780 555253 9 High Street, Cowes PO21 7RZ (between Carphone Warehouse and Joules)

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Cowes & East Cowes - History ....................................................

Cowes and East Cowes face each other over the River Medina at the northern-most tip of the Isle of Wight and are linked by a Chain Ferry affectionately known as the ‘Floating Bridge’, one of only a handful still operating in the UK.

Paul Wyeth

Originally, the name ‘Cowes’ is thought to be derived from the ‘cow castles’ that were built by Henry VIII as part of his 16th-century fortification of the Solent area, although the place name existed for a long time before the castles were constructed. The Royal Yacht Squadron has made its home in the remaining castle on the west side of the River Medina and ‘Cowes Castle’ has become a landmark in its own right since the club moved there in 1858.

Royal connections are widespread on the Isle of Wight and nowhere more so than East Cowes, the home to Queen Victoria and her beloved Prince Albert who built the magnificent Osborne House between 1845 and 1851. Osborne became their family home and Queen Victoria lived there

Queen Victoria’s beach

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English Heritage

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

until her death on the Island in 1901. English Heritage now runs Osborne House as one of its finest properties and no visit to the Island is complete without a visit. Queen Victoria is reported to have said: “It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot”, and indeed, the house and grounds of this royal seaside palace are superb, with many rooms remaining just as they were in Victoria’s day. See more about Osborne House on page 53.

SR-N1

Charles Brown Collection, RAF Museum

As well as being the modern day ‘home of world yachting’, the history of Cowes is steeped in maritime heritage. Cowes has a long and illustrious reputation as an industrial town that specialised firstly in boat building, but which also diversified into aircraft technologies and manufacturing.

This combination of boat building and aviation technology ultimately led to the town also being famous as the home of the hovercraft. The world’s first practical hovercraft, designed by Sir Christopher Cockerell and built

by Saunders-Roe, first flew in Cowes on 11 June 1959.

INDOOR LUXURY, OUTDOOR SPLENDOUR & ROYAL PRIVATE LIVES AT OSBORNE

Enjoy walks to explore the estate, gardens and private beach and discover the house Queen Victoria loved to call home.

EAST COWES

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Classic Boat Museum

Located on the seafront in East Cowes is the light and airy new premises of the Classic Boat Museum, which proudly displays notable boats such as Prince Philip’s Flying Fifteen Coweslip as well as a superbly restored example of Uffa Fox’s Mk 1 Airborne Lifeboat and Shirley Robertson’s ‘Europe’ dinghy, in which she won her first Olympic gold medal in 2000, in Sydney. However, few visitors appreciate beforehand the sheer diversity of the 50 or so other boats on display.

Beautiful Wight Images

A hundred yards across the road is the Classic Boat Museum Gallery which houses a wide and fascinating mix of exhibits including sections dedicated to Sir Francis Chichester, Dame Ellen MacArthur, and Uffa Fox, as well as the Jo Carstairs collection, at one time the fastest woman on water. With all manner of models, plans, photographs, pictures and flags, as well as regularly changing exhibitions on subjects of both local and national interest, those who take the time to visit are in for a real treat.

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In the town centre, the East Cowes Heritage Centre houses a permanent exhibition giving an insight into the history of East Cowes over the last 200 years. Supported also by temporary exhibitions mounted several times a year, the East Cowes Heritage Centre aims to preserve and present the town’s industrial and social heritage before reminders of the past are lost for ever.

Sir Max Aitken Museum

In Cowes High Street, the famous pink building ‘The Prospect’ is home to the Sir Max Aitken Museum. The beautiful 18th century sail maker’s loft, where Britannia’s mainsail was made, was acquired and restored by Sir Max Aitken in 1947. Today, with its traditional splendour, the building boasts Sir Max Aitken’s personal collection of nautical artifacts including a remarkable display of marine paintings, nautical instruments and yachting memorabilia. Whether you’re fascinated by maritime history or just enjoy unique exhibits, the Museum is well worth a visit.

There is also Cowes Maritime Museum to visit, situated within Cowes Library, which exhibits objects and images from the Island’s maritime collection, including model paddle steamers, lifeboats and other ships built

by J. Samuel White & Co. of Cowes.

CLASSIC BOAT MUSEUM AND GALLERY

NEW location - now on the seafront at East Cowes Over 50 sailing and power boats plus displays and artefacts covering many aspects of our maritime heritage.

Suitable for the whole family. Under cover and on one ground floor level. Refreshments.

Shop. Free parking 100 yards.

Tel: 01983 290006 (Gallery 244101) Albany Road, East Cowes www.classicboatmuseum.org

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Walks from Cowes .................................

Bargeman’s Rest

Cowes to Newport

........................

This route takes you from the Chain Ferry in Cowes, along the Medina Estuary, and ends up at the Bargeman’s Rest, right on the River Medina and in the heart of the bustling market town of Newport.

Starting from the Chain Ferry, pass the Ratsey & Lapthorn sail loft and turn left up Bridge Road. Continue left into Pelham Road, up South Road and then left again to join Arctic Road. You will pass UKSA, the maritime education centre, before turning on to the cycle path next to Medina Court Industrial Estate.

The path runs alongside the Medina Estuary which has a wonderfully interesting character made up of rich maritime heritage, a wealth of natural habitats and a vibrant mix of recreation, transport, and industry.

The tidal River Medina is home to many different creatures but is a key spot for wading birds and waterfowl. Keep an eye out for little egret, oystercatchers, black tailed godwits, grey herons, and redshank. The tree lined cycle path is also a great place to catch a glimpse of red squirrels.

On approaching Newport, you will first pass by the Medina Valley Centre, an environmental and outdoor education charity, the large Vestas facility, and then Newport Rowing Club. Leave the cycle path and turn into Little London which runs alongside the River Medina and where you can stop for a welcome drink and meal at the Bargeman’s Rest.

At this point, you can either return via the same route, go to the bus station in the centre of Newport and take the No. 1 bus back to Cowes, or, make the route a circular one by walking down the eastern side of the River Medina and returning via East Cowes and the Chain Ferry following the Medina Estuary Circular Walk.

Scan the QR code to view the Circular Walk leaflet.

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Moor up at the Bargeman’s Rest for great food and live music!

A family-run Free House sitting right on the River Medina with a number of visitor moorings.

Open Mon-Sat 10.30am - 11pm (10.30pm Sunday).

Food is served from 12 - 9.30pm (9pm Sunday).

Hearty breakfast served from 10.30am.

Well behaved dogs & muddy boots welcome!

Little London Quay, Newport, PO30 5BS 01983 525 828 bargemansrest.com info@bargemansrest.com

Access is 2 hours before High Water & up to 3 hours after High Water for a normal cruiser. Newport Harbour dries completely at Low Water.

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Cowes to Gurnard

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This pleasant, level walk starts at the Cowes RNLI lifeboat station beside The Parade in Cowes and follows the seafront all the way to Gurnard.

Egypt Point

Beautiful Wight Images

The lifeboat station is housed in the refurbished old Custom House building, and from The Parade, you can easily see the lifeboat when it is launched and recovered. Walk west along The Parade, enjoying the views out over the Solent, and passing both the Royal London and Royal Corinthian Yacht Clubs. On your right you will see Trinity Landing.

The Royal Yacht Squadron stands proud at the north end of The Parade and is one of the most exclusive clubs in the world. During the season, people often stop to watch the starting cannons fire and this is a great place to see races starting on the famous Squadron line.

A walk along the Esplanade brings you to Prince’s Green, next to the beach. The Green is a lovely place to sit and have a picnic and gives a great vantage point for the traditional fireworks display at the end of Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week.

Continue along Queen’s Road to Egypt Point, which is the northernmost point on the Isle of Wight and derives its name from a nearby gypsy encampment from the 16th century! Between 1897 and 1989 a lighthouse operated there which remains a landmark for yachtsmen. Egypt Point is another popular vantage point from which to watch racing in the Solent.

Follow the waterfront along Egypt Esplanade and Prince’s Esplanade to the village of Gurnard, 2 miles west of Cowes and on the edge of Gurnard Bay. Gurnard is a small, pleasant resort with the excellent Watersedge Beach Cafe and Woodvale Inn, as well as the popular Gurnard Sailing Club.

Whilst the beach is predominantly pebbles, it is a great vantage point and a particularly good location to watch the liners and large ships entering and leaving Southampton Water. You can view cruise liner arrival and departure schedules here: http://cruisesouthampton.com/cruise-list.

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Cowes to East Cowes

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This walk takes you across the River Medina on the Chain Ferry, along East Cowes Esplanade with its fine views of the Solent, and ends up at Old Castle Point. Once you step off the Chain Ferry in East Cowes, turn left down Castle Street. Pass the large Gridiron Shed on your left where boats were built for hundreds of years and from where the first seaplane was launched in 1913. Don’t miss the pretty Ship & Castle Inn on your righthand side, a small but very friendly local pub.

Cross over the roundabout and continue along Castle Street. The large white building to your left is Columbine Yard, a great example of British industrial architecture, built by Saunders-Roe in 1935 for the construction of flying boats. It was also here that Sir Christopher Cockerell pioneered designs for the world’s first hovercraft.

Turn left into Columbine Road with Venture Quays, housing the Classic Boat Museum Gallery on your left, and the Classic Boat Museum (see page 58) just a short walk down Albany Road. On your right you will see the Victoria Barracks which were built in 1872 and housed the troops guarding Queen Victoria.

East Cowes

Hamo Thornycroft

Walk down to the Esplanade from where Cowes Harbour and the busy River Medina come back into sight. To your right are a row of Coastguard Cottages dating from 1881. Beyond the Shrape Breakwater on your left and just in front of the caravan park to your right, you will walk over the site of an old rope walk that appears on the 1783 Admiralty Chart.

Continue along the Esplanade towards Castle Point. Easily accessible by car, foot, and public transport links, the beach at East Cowes is popular with residents and visitors. The traditional promenade has a large children’s play area, café, woodland walks, and grand views of Cowes.

The Esplanade ends abruptly at a high wall which once formed part of the boathouse for Norris Castle. This is a popular place in the early evening to watch cruise liners leave Southampton Water and sail past East Cowes.

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Wildlife of the River Medina .................................................

The Medina Estuary is a great place for wildlife. Its tidal waters, saltmarsh and mudflats are home to a wide range of plants and animals that are specially adapted to living in the challenging conditions.

Beautiful Wight Images

Saltmarshes are essential to the estuary’s ecosystem. They contain rare and vulnerable plants and provide nutrients for invertebrates that are food for waterbirds. They are important resting and feeding sites throughout the tidal cycle from late October to early March and a safe haven for young birds in summer. Saltmarshes help to reduce bank erosion by absorbing boat wash but are very vulnerable to trampling and sea level rise.

Intertidal mud contains huge numbers of worms and snails that support the birds that spend the winter in the estuary. When the mud is underwater the birds retreat to roost on the saltmarsh or sometimes the pontoons in Cowes fairway. Wading birds like dunlins, oystercatchers and lapwings can often be seen on pontoons at High Water and the buoys, navigation markers and piles provide a convenient resting spot for cormorants and terns in the summer.

Code of conduct • Be aware of sensitive areas and local wildlife • Don’t throw any litter overboard • Stay below 4 knots and limit your wash HARBOUR • Don’t land or walk on the saltmarsh COMMISSION • Keep noise to a minimum

C WES

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Finding a Balance

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IW Estuaries Project

One of the big challenges of estuary management is to ensure a balance between the quality of the natural and historic environment and its use for our activities. Sometimes this balance can only be achieved by adapting our activities and undertaking proactive work to ensure natural habitats are supported and enhanced.

This year, Cowes Harbour Commission will be working with the Isle of Wight Estuaries Project on habitat restoration projects to ensure that the estuary remains in good condition and supports the features and bird populations for which it is designated. The projects will focus upon enhancing High Water roost sites and developing a trial to regenerate an area of saltmarsh. The Isle of Wight Estuaries Project will also be developing a project to address issues of water quality within the estuary.

Cowes Harbour Commission has supported the Isle of Wight Estuaries Project for over 13 years and is keen to ensure that the Medina Estuary continues to be an attractive and vibrant place to live and visit.

IW Estuaries Project

The Isle of Wight Estuaries Project is a partnership between Cowes Harbour Commission, Environment Agency, Isle of Wight Council, Natural England and Yarmouth Harbour Commissioners.

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Below are a few of the species of birds you might see on the Medina Estuary:

Lapwing u Black and white plumage shows green in bright sunlight. Has an impressive crest.

Oystercatcher u Black and white wader. Bright orange legs and bill. Distinctive single note call when in flight.

Curlew u White-rumped brown wader with long, down-curved bill.

Little egret u An all white member of the heron family with bright yellow feet that feeds along the water’s edge at all states of the tide.

Sandwich tern u Elegant summer visitor. Feeds by diving in search of fish.

Wigeon u Dabbling duck feeds on water’s surface.

Smaller and more slender than a mallard.

Brent goose u Compact, black and white goose. Feeds on green algae. Has an evocative call.

Dunlin u Small wader. Feeds in flocks at water’s edge; rests in closely-packed groups on pontoons.

Ringed plover u Small wading bird with smart black and white head and breast. Feeds in groups often with the dunlin flock.

Bird illustrations by Alan Rowe at Potting Shed Cartoons.

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Just 9 miles east of Cowes is the spectacular Priory Bay, belonging to the Priory Bay Hotel. Where you will find: the Priory Oyster with a spectacular terrace overlooking the sea. We have added a barbecue and using the freshest local ingredients from lobster, oysters, Bembridge crab and salads from our garden, we are creating a wonderful al fresco experience.

New for 2013 is The Boathouse, which is licensed for civil weddings and can be used for private parties and corporate events. We can pick you up by RIB and drop you on the beach.

You will get your feet wet, but for those who want to keep their feet dry we can arrange a taxi from Seaview or Bembridge.

Why not order a hovercraft and drop up to 90 people right at our door?

Priory Bay Hotel • Priory Drive Seaview • Isle of Wight • PO34 5BU Tel: 01983 613 146 • Fax: 01983 616 539 email: enquiries@priorybay.co.uk www.priorybay.co.uk COWES.co.uk

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014 The Needles

Around the Isle of Wight ...........................................

Many yachtsmen visiting Cowes, even on a regular basis, might never leave the harbour-side or perhaps only venture up the Medina River as far as the Folly Inn. However, it is worth considering a trip further afield as the Isle of Wight will surprise and delight you with its pretty villages, stunning countryside, and varied and beautiful coastline. For the nonsailing members of your family, or for those days when racing is cancelled because of too little or too much wind, here are some suggestions for filling spare time and making the most of your stay.

The Isle of Wight is shaped like a diamond and has 57 miles of coastline to explore. Each section of the coast is very different in character; from river estuaries to soaring cliffs, secluded coves perfect for rock pooling, and beautiful beaches for swimming and sunbathing in the summer. See our guide to the Island’s best beaches: www.isleofwight.co.uk/beaches.

A comprehensive local bus service around the Isle of Wight is offered

by Southern Vectis. This includes services which have been designed specifically to help visitors enjoy the Isle of Wight’s attractions, countryside, and coastline.

If you take the No. 1 Southern Vectis bus service from Cowes Town Quay (beside the Red Jet terminal), this will take you to Newport, the Island’s county town, and from there you are within easy striking distance of Ryde, Freshwater, Sandown, Shanklin and Ventnor. These towns are all close to the coast, but you will also pass numerous villages and hamlets, like the famous thatched village of Godshill, which can provide the perfect starting point for a walk, especially if it ends up at one of the Island’s many characterful pubs and tea rooms.

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014 Peter Mumford - Beken of Cowes

You can also explore the Isle of Wight with Island Line’s unique electric trains which offer a convenient way of travelling between Ryde and Shanklin, calling at Brading, Sandown, and Lake. The trains are in fact 1930’s London underground tube trains which still offer a reliable service 80 years after they were first introduced in the capital! The Island Line service even connects with the Isle of Wight Steam Railway at Smallbrook Junction.

Read more about getting around the Isle of Wight here: www.isleofwight.co.uk/travel.

The Isle of Wight has a long established reputation for having more visitor attractions per square mile than anywhere else in the UK and you’ll find yourself running out of time before you run out of things to do! Visitor attractions range from the castles at Yarmouth and Carisbrooke to the lighthouse at St Catherine’s, from the famous Blackgang Chine and Needles Park, to the Owl and Monkey Haven, Dinosaur Isle, and the Isle of Wight Zoo at Sandown.

Indeed Blackgang Chine was the world’s first family attraction and theme park and opened on the Isle of Wight over 150 years ago!

Today however, there’s plenty of choice from local crafts at Arreton Barns to miniature towns at Godshill Model Village and much in between. Find out what the Island has to offer: www.isleofwight.co.uk/attractions.

Within an area of just 147 square miles (3,800 hectares) the Isle of Wight has over 500 miles of coastal path, bridleways and cycle tracks which are superb for those looking for a more adventurous holiday. Over half of the Isle of Wight is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and there are almost 30 miles of ‘Heritage Coast’, a designation applied to coastlines of only the highest quality in England and Wales.

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Earl Mountbatten Hospice “Walk the Wight”

The diversity of this unspoilt landscape makes walking a real pleasure with more miles of footpaths and bridleways than roads! Discover the panoramic views from high up on the Downs, much of which are now cared for by the National Trust, the tranquillity of ancient woodlands, the pretty farms and villages nestling in valleys and the many miles of stunning, unspoilt coastline. It’s here on the Isle of Wight that the world’s first festival devoted entirely to walking was held and which will celebrate its 15th year in 2013.

Sandown beach

Chris Boynton

Over 200 miles of bridleways, cycleways and byways are accessible to cyclists, with some routes suitable for novice riders and family groups, whilst others are longer and more challenging. You can hire a bicycle in the centre of Cowes and access the cycle path to Newport, for example, from Arcitc Road. See the pull out map of Cowes and the River Medina at the back of the Handbook for other cycle routes. The full 62 mile round the Island cycle route is a great way to experience the variety and diversity of the Isle of Wight, from high chalk cliffs to wooded estuaries. The well signed route uses mostly quieter roads and can be completed in a day.

Follow the white bicycle for the clockwise route or the blue bicycle for the anti-clockwise route.

For more tourist information about the Isle of Wight visit www.isleofwight.co.uk.

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CARPENTERS RD, BRADING, IW PO36 0QA TEL: 01983 613760 - WWW.OASIS-IOW.COM

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Fleets of Cowes ............................

Cowes hosts six main small keelboat fleets that race regularly during the season. Racing in the Solent is always interesting as no two races are ever the same.

Rick Tomlinson

The unique tide and wind patterns combined with the numerous courses, which the race committees from the five Cowes yacht clubs set, conspire to produce some excellent racing.

Darings

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Based on the Olympic 5.5s of the late 1950s, the Daring was launched in 1961 built in cutting edge GRP. They are still the most popular one design yachts Chris Boynton enjoying excellent racing out of Cowes. The Daring is a robust yacht and gear failures or breakages are rare. However, Lallows of Cowes hold spares and a damaged Daring on Saturday will be seen racing in the fleet the next day having been repaired overnight if necessary!

The Daring’s special one design rules allow the Class to continuously improve the sail and rigging plan by adopting the latest designs and high quality materials.

This attractive yacht offers competitive yet affordable racing in a unique and challenging environment. For those who want to know that every time they set sail they are pitting their wits against those of the next crew and not their boat, the Daring provides the ideal solution. www.daring.co.uk Daring Class Captain, David Gower: captain@daring.org.uk 72

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Dragons

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Cowes is home to a small but thriving Dragon fleet. Originally designed as a small cruiserracer by Norwegian Johan Anker in 1929, the Dragon was an Olympic Class from 1948 to 1972, and is a fast, rewarding, and exciting boat for her three/four person crew. The Dragon is the largest one design keelboat Hamo Thornycroft fleet in the world with fleets in 26 countries worldwide, and has a comprehensive international regatta circuit which allows year-round racing.

The Duke of Edinburgh famously owned a Dragon called Bluebottle (presented by the Island Sailing Club) in which he was a regular participant in Cowes Week. The design has always attracted a passionate, illustrious audience. Although an historic class, the governing body has overseen a gradual modernisation and Dragons are now being built using modern materials and methods. www.solent-dragons.org Class Captain, Owen Pay: owen_pay@yahoo.co.uk

• CHANDLERY Open 7 days a week.

• SLIPWAY Lift for up to 50 tons. Mobile crane to 9 tons. Short or long term storage.

• REPAIRS From minor scratches to major structural damage. Supply & fit equipment.

Insurance work.

• ENGINEERING All aspects of marine engineering: installations, re-builds, servicing & repair • REFITS Complete external & interior.

• PAINTING Approved application centre for Awlgrip, International & Blakes Paints.

• ELECTRICAL From minor faults, to supply & fit electronic equipment or complete rewires.

• INSTALLATIONS Bow/Stern thrusters, plumbing systems & alternative or additional propulsion systems.

AGENTS FOR LOMBARDINI & VETUS INBOARDS PLUS HIDEA OUTBOARDS

www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk | Tel: 01983 821095 | info@richardsonsyacht.co.uk Island Harbour Marina | Mill Lane | Binfield | Newport | Isle of Wight | PO30 2LA

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Etchells

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For over 30 years the International Etchells Fleet has been the world’s leading international one design keelboat outside of the Olympic classes. Family teams, young talent, sailing greats and Saturday afternoon club sailors all enjoy racing in Etchells.

Thirty feet of pure sailing machine, the boat planes downwind when it’s windy and slips along in the light.

Hamo Thornycroft The Etchells is an exciting, friendly class to join with some of the most competitive racing available.

Etchells are trailerable, easy to maintain and light enough to dry sail.

The boats are mainly sailed from Shepards Wharf Marina and Cowes Yacht Haven. The reward is a modern racing machine with the very best performance. www.etchellsukfleet.co.uk Cowes Fleet Captain, David Franks: Davidfranks80@gmail.com

Sonars

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Designed by Bruce Kirby, of Laser dinghy fame, the Sonar combines sparkling performance and high-level onedesign competition with Rick Tomlinson comfort and safety suitable for family and friends. This is a keelboat that thinks it’s a dinghy when it comes to performance while offering the security and flexibility of a larger boat.

Sonars are crew friendly, and can be raced competitively with three to five crew in all conditions. The Sonar has become the one design keelboat of choice for a growing list of sailing clubs worldwide; the Island Sailing Club has a fleet of nine Sonars for hire.

The Sonar was adopted as a Paralympic class of yacht, partly because of the excellent cockpit layout, and local Cowes sailor Andy Cassell won gold in a Sonar at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Sonars are built here on the Island, with four new boats in 2012, including the gold medal winning boat at the London Paralympic Games. www.uksonar.info Cowes Fleet Captain and Class builder, Duncan Bates: batesmarine@aol.com 74

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Flying Fifteens

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ff

2012 marked a milestone for the Flying Fifteen Class with the launch of the 4,000th boat constructed since the design came off the drawing board of legendary designer and well-known Cowes sailing personality Uffa Fox in 1947.

Flying Fifteens are an exciting two person racing keelboat with the characteristics of a dinghy. The boat planes (you get wet), it’s exhilarating, small enough to trail to open meetings, there is competitive fleet sailing, it involves a great bunch of people young and old, and you have fun on the water and ashore.

Flying Fifteens have long been associated with the Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club, from which the Solent fleet is generally dry sailed. www.flying15.org.uk Class contact in Cowes, Andrew Millband: andrew.millband@virgin.net

X One Design

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X

The X One Design (XOD) was designed by Alfred Westmacott on the Isle of Wight and first raced on Southampton Water in 1911. Today, the X One Design Class is thriving with more than 140 boats of all ages competing on equal terms. Including the Cowes division, there are six active divisions around the Solent between Chichester Harbour in the east and Poole Harbour in the west.

Peter Mumford - Beken

The XOD fleet has attracted many experienced helms and crew and the standard of sailing at the front of the fleets is undoubtedly high.

Whenever you sail you can be sure of good competition. Boats are equal, turnouts are good and races are keenly contested throughout the fleet.

The Cowes Division is continuing to grow and turns out in good numbers all through the season. Easily the largest class in Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week they are an enduring, popular and relatively inexpensive racing boat. www.xonedesign.org.uk Cowes Division Secretary, Jeremy Field: xodcowesdivision@gmail.com COWES.co.uk

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Cowes Yacht Clubs .................................

Sailing and racing are words that are synonymous with Cowes and this reputation is largely based on the activities of the various sailing and yacht clubs that have bases in Cowes and East Cowes.

Royal Yacht Squadron

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Founded in 1815, the Royal Yacht Squadron is one of the oldest and most prestigious yacht clubs in the world.

The qualification entitling a gentleman to become a member was the ownership of a vessel not under 10 tons!

Today, this is interpreted as a gentleman “actively interested in yachting”. Over the years it has had many distinguished members and since 1948, lady members as well.

The clubhouse is the iconic Cowes Castle building at the westward end of The Parade near The Green, which was built in 1539 as part of Henry VIII’s chain of coastal defences, protecting the Island from invasion.

The Club has an active racing and cruising programme and hosts many yachts races from its famous start line.

Royal Corinthian Yacht Club

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The Royal Corinthian Yacht Club (RCYC) was founded in 1872 at Erith on the River Thames.

It subsequently moved to Burnham-on-Crouch and established a ‘southern’ branch in Cowes in 1948. Since 1992 the RCYC has owned the elegant clubhouse set in a unique setting and gardens off The Parade in Cowes.

Racing is run on a regular basis for a variety of classes including Darings, International Dragons, Etchells, Quarter Tonners, and X One Designs.

The Club continues to build its reputation for hospitality by hosting some of the best parties, as well as the most exciting regattas, and serving some of the best food and wine to be had in Cowes. The famous Royal Corinthian barbecue seems to run all summer and, while there is usually a throng of eaters and drinkers enjoying the view from the terrace across the Solent, there is always room for more.

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Royal London Yacht Club

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The Royal London Yacht Club is housed in an elegant pair of Georgian houses on The Parade and its balcony has one of the best views across the waters of the Solent.

The Club prides itself on its sailing and social events, providing members with excellent facilities, accommodation and catering, with the highlight being the Royal London Cowes Week Ball.

The Royal London celebrates its 175th anniversary in 2013, continuing the Club’s long history in British yachting, its members having ranked among the most colourful personalities in the yachting scene. Look out for the Club’s anniversary regatta from 24 to 26 August.

Island Sailing Club

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With more than 2,500 members the Island Sailing Club is the largest club on the Isle of Wight and one of the biggest in the UK. It plays a leading role in the Cowes sailing season and is best known for organising the famous J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race, taking place this year on Saturday, 1 June, with the first class start at 0500.

The Club owns a fleet of nine identical Sonar dayboats which are available for hire, and has a landing pontoon immediately to the south of The Parade. The ISC Tuesday Evening Series throughout the summer is always popular.

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Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club

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Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club is situated in Birmingham Road, just south of the harbour entrance, and was founded in 1952 by the late “Tiny” Mitchell as a club for local sailors. It has evolved largely through the voluntary labours of its members to become a popular venue for both racing and cruising yachtsmen. It is the only club in Cowes that can provide marina berths and shoreside boat storage facilities to its members. It has an open, relaxed and very friendly atmosphere. The Club is also home to Cowes Sailability Club whose aim is to provide activities afloat for people with disabilities.

Royal Thames Yacht Club

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Founded in 1775 as the Cumberland Fleet, the Royal Thames Yacht Club is the oldest continuously operating yacht club in the world offering unobtrusive excellence in every aspect of Club life. The Royal Thames clubhouse is very conveniently located at 60 Knightsbridge, London, with views over Hyde Park from its fine dining restaurant. In Cowes, the Royal Thames operates primarily with and from the Royal London Yacht Club.

The Royal Thames is involved in a wide range of yachting events for both the cruising and racing yachtsman, motor yacht owners and all those interested in the sea.

Royal Ocean Racing Club

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The Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) was founded in 1925 in Plymouth following the first Fastnet Race, the 45th edition of which is set to take place on 11 August 2013. With over 3,300 members around the world, the RORC is one of the Kos - www.kospictures.com largest offshore racing clubs and is a national authority for the measurement and rating of offshore yachts.

Based in the heart of London, members of the RORC enjoy elegant accommodation and hospitality at the clubhouse in St James’s Place, while the RORC also retains an office at the Disrespect in the High Street, Cowes.

In 2013 the RORC will run a full season of inshore regattas and crossChannel offshore races, many beginning in Cowes and to destinations including Guernsey and St Malo.

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East Cowes Sailing Club

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East Cowes Sailing Club (ECSC) has a mainly local membership and is located off Clarence Road, East Cowes, near the Victoria Tavern Pub. The Club runs the popular Thursday evening racing throughout the season, using a start/finish line off the Shrape and also the well-established ‘Sail The Wight’ charity race/cruise, raising money in aid of the Island Hospice.

Membership and storage fees are very competitive and the Club caters for a wide range of boating activities. ECSC occupies river frontage with storage sheds, yard and clubhouse. On the water, the Clubs facilities include a number of small boat moorings, a walk ashore pontoon with finger berths for resident boats and a deep water visitors’ berth. The Club also has a dinghy park on East Cowes Esplanade.

Gurnard Sailing Club

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Gurnard Sailing Club lies on the shores of Gurnard Bay, a mile or so west of Cowes. The Club was formed in 1931 and is the Island’s premier dinghy club. It has excellent clubhouse facilities, a full sailing, social and training calendar, and hosts the popular Cowes Dinghy Week.

The racing area is set either within Gurnard Bay for the smaller dinghies or the exciting waters of the western Solent for fast reaching and Olympic courses. The tides are strong and provide challenging conditions which makes for first-class sailing.

S OLENT & W IGHTLINE C RUISES The Island’s Leisure Line

Fast Cross Solent Transport For Your Group at a Time to Suit You Maritime Coastguard Agency Hire & Charter For Press & Hospitality Wedding Receptions & Evening Cruises

Tel: 01983 564602 www.solentcruises.co.uk

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Yacht Racing ........................

Cowes is one of the most visited ports on the south coast of England and hosts an unrivalled number of yacht races and regattas every year. Cowes has an unsurpassed heritage in racing yachts and indeed the world’s most famous yacht race, the America’s Cup, was first raced from Cowes around the Isle of Wight in 1851.

Hamo Thornycroft

Since that time, yacht racing of all types has become a popular pastime as well as a high-tech professional sport that embraces many thousands of participants in many hundreds (sometimes thousands) of boats. Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week is the highlight of the British yacht racing calendar and the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race is one of the largest participatory events in the world.

Organising Clubs

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Cowes has many famous yacht clubs and alongside their busy social calendars is a packed schedule of activities and racing events. The ‘organising club’ will determine the sailing instructions for a race as well as setting the course and calculating any handicapping that might be involved for a multi-class race. They will also undertake to start the races, either at one of the several start lines in Cowes, or using a ‘committee boat’ start. The host club will issue the provisional results; these may be subjected to a protest before final results are issued.

Racing Rules

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A proper understanding of the racing rules is crucial to success on the water! The Racing Rules of Sailing govern the sport on the water and are revised every four years by the International Sailing Federation following the Olympic Games. The latest version (2013 - 2016) came into effect on 1 January 2013.

The new Racing Rules of Sailing have changes to some definitions to improve clarity including a clearer definition of ‘Finish’, changes to the 80

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definition ‘Keep Clear’; the definition ‘Mark-Room’ and ‘Room’ have also been changed to correct some anomalies. To get up-to-date on all the rule changes, we recommend reading, for example, the classic Paul Elvstrøm Explains the Racing Rules of Sailing, or the definitive The Rules in Practice

by Bryan Willis.

Race Start Lines

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The start line for ‘round-the-cans’ (around the buoys) races is usually one of the Cowes clubs’ shore lines. The Royal Yacht Squadron, Royal Corinthian Yacht Club, Royal London Yacht Club, and the Island Sailing Club all have shore lines near the mouth of the harbour. The Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club’s shore line starts are run from the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club’s line, and the Royal Thames Yacht Club use the Royal London Yacht Club’s line.

The Royal Yacht Squadron has two shore lines; a westerly line that uses the West Bramble transit, and an eastern line which uses the South Bramble transit - but this line is rarely used. All the other clubs have shore lines with transit posts in front of each club.

Always check with the organising club or the sailing instructions for full details regarding shore line or committee boat starts.

Racing Courses

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The Solent offers challenging conditions for all types of yacht, so race organisers usually set courses a short time before the start and may sometimes even alter the course before or during a race to reflect changes in wind direction.

Smaller boats will race shorter courses round the cans, while larger yachts may sail as far west as The Needles and east towards Portsmouth.

Hamo Thornycroft Sometimes committee boat starts are used in several locations in and around the central Solent.

The Cowes Keelboat Solent Series is run with shore line starts using the Cowes clubs’ start lines, whilst the Cowes Keelboat Championship uses committee boat starts.

Races often allow for two or three circuits of the course, allowing boats to experience a variety of conditions and to enable organisers to shorten the course if conditions deteriorate.

See the pull out ‘Buoy Racer’ chart inside the back cover of this Handbook for the 2013 Solent buoy positions.

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Racing Signals

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Rick Tomlinson

Flags are the primary means of communication between organisers and participating yachts and are used to signal messages to boats racing, often with accompanying sound signals. The flag is always the primary system; if the sound signal fails it is disregarded. The organiser will fly a series of flags from the club’s signal mast denoting the start time of the race, as well as confirming the course and other relevant information.

When a flag signal is shown over a class flag, the signal applies only to that class. Racing yachts will often fly a class flag or pennant from the backstay in place of the usual, red, blue or white Ensign. Class flags are often taken from the established signal flags although there are some variants.

Flag Signals

.................

Here is a quick introduction to the flag signals used for racing. The flags illustrated are the ones you are most likely to see hoisted and lowered from shore line flagpoles when Cowes clubs are running yacht races.

The first flag up a flagpole will be the class flag and can be any number of different types of flag, depending on the fleet of boats racing. It’s flown 5 minutes before the race fleet’s start.

Flag P, the preparatory flag, is flown 4 minutes before the race fleet’s start.

Flag I. A boat over the line in the minute before the start must sail to the prestart side of the line around either end before starting the race.

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Flag Z. A boat within the triangle formed by the ends of the start line and the first mark in the minute before the race start gets a 20% scoring penalty.

The Black flag. A boat within the triangle formed by the ends of the start line and the first mark in the minute before the start will be disqualified.

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

This is the AP flag (Answering Pennant) which means that races not started are postponed.

Flag N means that all races that have started are abandoned and competitors must return to the starting area.

The AP flag flown over the H flag means that races not yet started are postponed. More information ashore.

The N flag over the H flag means all races are abandoned. More information ashore.

The AP flag over the A flag means that races not yet started are postponed. No more racing today.

The N flag over the A flag means all races are abandoned. No more racing today.

The AP flag over a numeral pennant 1-6 means that races are postponed by 1-6 hours from the scheduled starting time.

Flag S is used when a race course has been shortened.

When flag C is displayed at a rounding mark, it means that the position of the next mark has been changed.

Flag L. Flown ashore, means a notice to competitors has been posted. Flown afloat, means come within hail or follow this boat.

Flag X. Used for individual recalls when a few boats have crossed the start line too soon. Those boats have to turn back and start again.

First Substitute flag.

Used at the start of races for general recalls when lots of boats have started early. The whole fleet will have to restart the race again.

Flag Y is flown to tell competitors that they must wear personal buoyancy (lifejackets).

Paul Wyeth

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Types of Yachting ...............................

The variety of modern and classic yachts is vast, but can be broken down into some basic categories.

Rick Tomlinson

Small Keelboats

......................

Cowes is home to several small keelboat classes including Darings, Dragons, Etchells, Sonars, X One Designs, Flying Fifteens, and J80s. See also the ‘Fleets of Cowes’ section on page 72 for more information.

Dinghies

............

Dinghies are distinguished from other boats by their relatively small size, lack of a fixed keel to keep them upright and they are invariably launched for the race and then taken out of the water. Dinghies are wet to race, with the crew sometimes ducked in the water, or capsizing. Some dinghies boast trapezes, enabling the crew to ‘hike out’ using their weight to keep the boat upright. Just west of Cowes is Gurnard Sailing Club which runs the popular Dinghy Week, this year running from 27 to 30 July.

Cruisers

...........

Peter Mumford - Beken of Cowes

Cruisers are given a rating based upon boat and sail measurements in order to allow competitive racing. Crew sizes will vary according to conditions, but typically have a skipper, navigator and four or five ‘grinders’ tending the winches, sails and sheets. Cruisers vary in length considerably, but most will generally be between 20 and 40 feet. Read more in our ‘Cruising’ section on page 86.

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Ocean Racers

...................

In the context of Cowes, this refers mainly to boats designed for sailing in open seas and usually features larger yachts of 40 foot and over. Cowes regularly hosts events like the Swan European Regatta and the famous Rolex Fastnet Race. A crew of more than 12 is not unusual for ocean racers and reflects the demands of bigger sails and the need to maintain watches throughout the night on longer events.

Rick Tomlinson

And finally, there are yachts that don’t fit easily into any category. This includes one-off high-tech speed yachts, Superyachts, and even the J Class boats of America’s Cup fame. Using a handicap system, all can be raced competitively, and the 2013 events line-up for Cowes includes a selection of fantastic visual spectacles.

For more information about events taking places in Cowes, see the ‘Events Diary’ on page 90 and the ‘Events Calendar’ on page 100.

Peter Mumford - Beken of Cowes

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Chris Boynton

Cruising ...............

Cowes is one of the UK’s most popular cruising destinations, being located at the very heart of the Solent and easily accessible for all types of vessel.

There is a wide choice of berthing options available (see page 20) in Cowes and on the sheltered waters of the River Medina, ranging from fully serviced marinas right in the centre of the town to more peaceful berths and mooring buoys away from it all.

Cowes is also becoming a magnet for a growing number of visiting cruise ships and private yachts, which usually anchor in Cowes Roads with passengers alighting at Trinity Landing to spend the day visiting the town and touring the Island. Trinity Landing, the floating pontoon off The Parade, enjoys a unique location ensuring uninterrupted views across the Solent and providing easy, walk ashore access to Cowes town, thereby also making it an attractive option for luxury yachts coming to Cowes.

Some of the cruise ships already booked to visit Cowes in 2013 include the Hamburg on 14 May, the Deutchland on 7 June, the Columbus on 23 August, and the Europa on 4 September.

Cruising in company is a safe and sociable way to enjoy your boat, and for anyone wishing to take up cruising there are several yacht clubs in Cowes that offer cruising programmes to their members including the Island 86 COWES.co.uk

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Chris Boynton Chris Boynton

Sailing Club, Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club, and the Medina Mariners Association. Most cruises organised from Cowes are in the Solent area and have quite a high social element in addition to the water-borne activity!

The Island Sailing Club (ISC) cruising fleet is composed of members of all ages with all types of boat including sailing yachts, motor cruisers of all sizes, day boats, and RIBs. The ISC cruises usually start from Cowes and range from Poole in the west to Chichester in the east and most other ports in the Solent and Southampton Water, including a local raft-up on the Medina Folly pontoon at the end of June.

There is a regular cruising contingent amongst the Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club membership, both motorboats, large and small as well as cruising yachts. Rallies are organised on an ad hoc basis and many members participate in the rallies run by the Medina Mariners Association and other Cowes-based yacht clubs. Cruising rallies are generally arranged at fairly short notice to try and time them with a reasonable spell of weather, not always easy!

To find out about cruising events offered by Cowes clubs to their members, contact the clubs direct for more information. Cowes is the perfect choice for a rally destination with CHC’s Shepards Wharf Marina taking bookings for fleets of six or more vessels.

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Motor Yachts ........................

Cowes is an increasingly popular destination for motor yachts and RIBs which are welcomed all year round. The harbour is very accommodating with good mooring facilities available for all types of craft, together with ample fuel provisions.

Royal Yacht Squadron’s Jubilee Haven

Motor yacht skippers should be particularly aware of manoeuvrability issues in close quarters and the importance of not creating excessive wash.

You might well be interested in exploring up the Medina River to visit the Folly Inn or perhaps as far as Newport Quay, so please take time to read the relevant sections of the Handbook to make sure you have an enjoyable and safe trip.

RIBs are a very popular way to get around Cowes and at major events like Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week and the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race, the Town Quay is temporarily transformed into ‘RIB city’.

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Chris Davies

A ‘must do’ event for the motor boat enthusiast is the Cowes – Torquay – Cowes powerboat race on Sunday, 1 September. This year’s fleet will assemble at the Royal Yacht Squadron with boats arriving from lunch time on Friday, 30 August. The public are welcome to watch from The Parade as the crews complete their last minute preparations. If the roar of big block engines is something that gets your blood pumping, make sure you take the time to visit Cowes and watch the action!

Visitors on jet skis are also welcome and Cowes offers convenient moorings at the Town Quay with trailer ramps on The Parade and in East Cowes. If you are operating a jet ski you must observe the speed limits, remain within the main navigable fairway, keep clear of all areas where vessels are moored and be additionally aware of your size and visibility in relation to other vessels, especially the regular ferry and Red Jet services.

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Email: mcasson@aol.com www.cowesribs.com Call Mark: 07979 495537 COWES.co.uk

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Cowes Events Diary ..................................

2013 is set be yet another vintage year for Cowes. Many of the yachting and powerboating events represent the pinnacle of their sport whilst others provide a showcase for the best of club racing, rallies, and regattas.

Chris Boynton

Here follow some of the highlights of the 2013 season. See also our comprehensive Events Calendar starting on page 100. For all the latest information on Cowes events be sure to visit COWES.co.uk/events.

Sir Max Aitken

Museum The Prospect • Cowes

The Prospect, 83 High Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight Tel: 01983 293800 sirmaxaitkenmuseum@gmail.com www.sirmaxaitkenmuseum.org

Visit this remarkable museum for a unique insight into the life of Sir Max Aitken Bt, DSO, DFC, a well known yachtsman who successfully represented Great Britain in many offshore events.

This beautifully restored 18th century sail makers’ loft houses a collection of fine marine paintings, nautical instruments, figureheads, and other furnishings.

Admission: May - September 10am - 4pm FREE OF CHARGE Available for hire throughout the year for guided tours, dinners, parties and now licensed for wedding ceremonies.

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RORC Easter Challenge 29 - 31 March The Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) Easter Challenge from Friday, 29 March to Sunday, 31 March, marks the traditional start to the Cowes racing season and sees racers and cruiser racers join in this popular training regatta. Unique to this event, there are four or five coaches on the water zipping around in RIBs, followed by a coaching debrief at Cowes Yacht Haven. www.rorc.org

Hamo Thornycroft

JOG Offshore Championship 2013 March - October JOG (Junior Offshore Group) runs a full programme every season grouped into an inshore and offshore series. Competitors enjoy a high standard of racing and a similarly high level of camaraderie at the parties which take place at the end of almost every race in a host port! JOG’s 2013 season gets underway on Friday, 29 March with the Cowes – Cherbourg – Cowes Race and comes to an end with the Eastern Approaches Race on Saturday, 5 October. www.jog.org.uk Island Sailing Club Evening Race Series April - September The 2013 Evening Race Series kicks off on Tuesday, 23 April, and continues every Tuesday night except for Tuesday, 6 August (Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week). The last race of the series will be on 27 August and then 3 September sees the annual ‘Bang and Go Back Race’ marking the end of the Tuesday evening season. www.islandsc.org.uk Cowes Keelboat Solent Series & Cowes Keelboat Championship April - October & May - September The small keelboat classes are, for many people, the heart of Solent racing. Classes which race most weekends throughout the season include the classic Daring class, Dragons, Etchells, Flying 15s, Sonars, and X One Designs. The Cowes Keelboat Solent Series comprises 14 weekends of round-the-cans races from April to October with shore line starts using the Cowes clubs’ start lines. The Cowes Keelboat Championship runs over six weekends from May to September and uses committee boat starts.

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Vice Admiral’s Cup 17 - 19 May The hugely popular Vice Admiral’s Cup is organised by the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club and runs from Friday, 17 to Saturday, 19 May. www.rcyc.co.uk Cornerstone Cup 27 - 31 May The Cornerstone Cup, from Monday, 27 to Friday, 31 May is a new, prestigious challenge and addition to the racing calendar. A four-way international team racing event between the New York Yacht Club, St Francis Yacht Club, Royal Yacht Squadron, and Royal Thames Yacht Club. www.rys.org.uk J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race 1 June (see page 96)

Chris Boynton

J/80 and J/70 UK National Championships 14 - 16 June The J/80 UK National Championships and inaugural J/70 UK National Championships will be hosted by the Royal Yacht Squadron from Friday, 14 to Sunday, 16 June. The J/80 Nationals in Cowes will provide a nice warm up for the 2013 World Championships in July, where more than 130 boats are expected to travel to host city Marseille. The 2013 J/70 Nationals will be the first UK one design regatta for J/Boats’ newest sportsboat. www.rys.org.uk Sail the Wight 22 June Sail the Wight is an annual event organised by East Cowes Sailing Club in conjunction with the Westerly Owners Association to raise much needed funds for the Island’s Earl Mountbatten Hospice. This year ‘Sail the Wight’ takes place on Saturday, 22 June, starting and finishing on the Royal Yacht Squadron line. www.sailthewight.org.uk 92 COWES.co.uk

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

IRC National Championships 5 - 7 July The RORC IRC National Championships from Friday, 5 to Sunday, 7 July is an action-packed event comprising three days of competitive, highoctane racing with seven inshore races. www.rorc.org Panerai British Classic Week 6 - 13 July The 2013 regatta will be taking place from Saturday, 6 to Saturday, 13 July, with the Panerai Classic Around the Island Race on the Sunday, 7 July following the original clockwise course of the first America’s Cup, and a five-race series starting on Monday, 8 July. Racing will be demanding and competitive but will still retain that Corinthian spirit synonymous with classic boat racing. www.britishclassicyachtclub.org Swan European Regatta, Swan 60 Worlds & Swan 45 Worlds 13 - 19 July The Gazprom Swan European Regatta will take place from Saturday, 13 to Friday, 19 July. This prestigious event is organised in conjunction with the Royal Yacht Squadron and includes the Swan 45 and Swan 60 World Championships. www.rys.org.uk Quarter Ton Cup 15 - 17 July The Quarter Ton Cup will be held from Monday, 15 to Wednesday, 17 July and is open to Quarter Tonners of all generations. www.rcyc.co.uk Cowes Classics Week 15 - 19 July Cowes Classics Week, from Monday, 15 to Friday, 19 July, run by the Royal London Yacht Club, offers class racing for all metre boats, classic racing keelboats and one designs including: 12mR, 8mR, 6mR, 5.5mR, Daring, Dragon, Solent Sunbeam, Bembridge Redwing, Seaview Mermaid, Squib, XOD, Folkboat, Victory, Bembridge, Loch Long and Yarmouth One Designs, Flying Fifteen, SCOD, and Swallow. There are also classes for Classic Cruisers, Classic/Revival Day Boats, Old Gaffers. Racing from committee CowesHandbookAd.pdf boats will be on a 1mix of laid11:36:47 and round-the-cans courses.  02/02/2013 www.cowesclassicsweek.org

www.cowesclassicsweek.org

2013

M TM

Y

15 - 19 July 2013 6th Cowes Classics Week

CM

MY

CY

MY

K

Photo: Hamo Thornycroft www.yacht-photos.co.uk

Design & Print: The Yachting Studio www.theyachtingstudio.com

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Cowes Dinghy Week 27 - 31 July Hosted by Gurnard Sailing Club, Cowes Dinghy Week will take place from Saturday, 27 to Wednesday, 31 July with around 150 entries from sailors of all ages. The regatta is open to all dinghies of PYS 1385 or less, including Lasers, Picos, RS400s, RS100s, and Shadows. There are also PYS handicap classes and a catamaran handicap class. www.gurnardsc.org.uk Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week 3 - 10 August (see page 98)

Hamo Thornycroft

Rolex Fastnet Race 11 August The biennial Rolex Fastnet Race is open to both monohull and multihull sailing yachts. The allure of the 608-mile Race continues to attract competitors from around the globe and is one of the true tests of offshore sailing skill. Organised by RORC, the course starts from the Royal Yacht Squadron at Cowes on Sunday, 11 August, races out of the Solent down the English Channel to Land’s End and across the often tempestuous Celtic Sea to the Fastnet Rock, before returning on a reciprocal course to the finish off Plymouth. fastnet.rorc.org Old Gaffers Association Jubilee Festival 15 - 18 August The Old Gaffers Association will be celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2013 and the climax of the celebrations will be a Jubilee Festival at Cowes from Thursday, 15 to Sunday, 18 August. The Festival promises to be the greatest gathering of Gaffers and is not to be missed! www.oga50.org Royal London Yacht Club 175th Anniversary Regatta 24 - 26 August Already signed up for the Royal London Yacht Club’s 175th Anniversary Regatta on the August Bank Holiday weekend (Saturday, 24 to Monday, 94 COWES.co.uk

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

26 August) is the Daring and Contessa 32 classes, with lots more expected to confirm their participation to celebrate this special anniversary. A series of races will be run from committee boats in the central Solent with a varied social programme and great camaraderie ashore. Also during the anniversary year, the Club will host a regatta for all David Thomas designed yachts in class or handicap racing, to include the Sigma 38s who celebrate their 25th anniversary. Â www.rlyc.org.uk Cowes Classic Offshore Powerboat Race 1 September Organised by the British Powerboat Racing Club, the famous Cowes Torquay - Cowes powerboat race on Sunday, 1 September, is for UIM Marathon Class boats of varying engine capacity and hull length. Boats will be arriving at the Royal Yacht Squadron from lunchtime on Friday, 30 August. The best viewing for the race start is from Fort Albert on the Isle of Wight or Hurst Castle on the mainland. www.cowes2013.co.uk Little Britain Challenge Cup 12 - 15 September The Little Britain Challenge Cup is the biggest European sailing regatta for the property and construction industry and takes place from Thursday, 12 to Sunday, 15 September. Organised by the Royal Yacht Squadron, there will be three days of racing in the Solent, with the event again raising money for nine sailing-related charities. www.littlebritain.co.uk

Little Britain Challenge Cup

ASTO Cowes Small Ships Regatta 5 October The ASTO Small Ships Races are youth events open to any sail training vessels of which at least half the crew is under 25. The 10th Cowes Small Ships Race will be held on Saturday, 5 October and this short Solent based event is extremely popular in the sail training world. www.asto.org.uk COWES.co.uk 95

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J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race - 1 June 2013

.................................................

The annual J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race, organised by the Island Sailing Club, is a oneday yacht race around the Isle of Wight. The Race attracts over 1,700 boats and around 16,000 sailors, making it one of the largest yacht races in the world and the fourth largest participation sporting event in the UK.

Mark Lloyd

Competitors race the 50 nautical mile course around the Isle of Wight.

Starting on the famous Royal Yacht Squadron ‘line’ in Cowes, the fleet races westabout, to The Needles, round St Catherine’s Point and Bembridge Ledge buoy, and back into the Solent to the finish line at Cowes.

OnEdition

Tweet your Race news We want to hear why you’re entering, what you’re looking forward to and your favourite thing about the Race. For every #Raceforall tweet, J.P. Morgan will donate 10p to the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, until the ‘Tweetometer’ target of £3,000 is reached. You can view the latest fundraising tweets at www.roundtheisland.org.uk/raceforall.

For more details on the Race visit: www.roundtheisland.org.uk

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....................................................................

Since 1826 Cowes Week has played a key part in the British sporting summer calendar and is one of the UK’s longest running and most successful sporting events.

The eight day regatta now stages around 40 daily races for up to 1,000 boats and has a varied race programme to suit anything from the most competitively campaigned boats to cruiser racers, and everything in between; there’s something for everyone.

Rick Tomlinson

Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week, as the event is now known, attracts 8,000 competitors ranging from Olympic and world class professionals to weekend sailors, and in excess of 100,000 spectators come to watch the sailing, enjoy the social scene, and to experience the unique atmosphere.

If you have some sailing experience and would like to join the 1,000 boat fleet under cannon fire from the historic Royal Yacht Squadron, there are many ways to get involved. Visit the event website for details on the various options for taking part.

If you’d prefer just to watch, there will be plenty of spectacular close-toshore racing throughout the day, and if you want to get really close to the racing action, book onto a spectator boat trip – bookings are possible online from June.

Highlights for this year include Family Day (Sunday, 4 August), Ladies Day (Thursday, 8 August), and the famous fireworks display (Friday, 9 August).

Full event details are available at: www.aamcowesweek.co.uk or by calling the Regatta Office on 01983 295744.

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Cowes Events Calendar .........................................

Rick Tomlinson

BCYC: British Classic Yacht Club BPRC: British Powerboat Racing Club Brit Ev: Britania Events CCYC: Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club COPC: Classic Offshore Powerboat Club CWL: Cowes Week Limited CYH: Cowes Yacht Haven ECSC: East Cowes Sailing Club GSC: Gurnard Sailing Club

ISC: Island Sailing Club JOG: Junior Offshore Group RCYC: Royal Corinthian Yacht Club RLYC: Royal London Yacht Club RORC: Royal Ocean Racing Club RTYC: Royal Thames Yacht Club RYS: Royal Yacht Squadron SORC: Solo Offshore Racing Club

CB: Committee boat start. SL: Shore line start.

Where no start time is indicated, check with the organising club.

Dates are correct at the time of going to print. For the most up-to-date information on events taking place in Cowes, please visit: COWES.co.uk/events.

Introducing our new collection for Spring / Summer 2013, including our DAME Award Winning Sailcloth footwear range.

Call 0845 2700 217 or email info@chatham-marine.co.uk THE OFFICIAL FOOTWEAR SPONSORS OF

www.chatham-marine.co.uk

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Date

Start

Event

Club

Etchells Spring Series 2

CCYC

MARCH 2013 Sat 23 - Sun 24 Fri 29

0730

Fri 29 - Sun 31

Northface Connections Cowes Cherbourg - Cowes Race RORC Easter Challenge

JOG RORC

APRIL 2013 Sat 6 - Sun 7

CB

Sir Kenneth Preston Trophy

RYS

Thu 11

1830

Mass start & Ladies Series 1

ECSC

Sat 13

0800

Nab Tower (finish at Cowes)

JOG

Sun 14

1000

Spring Series - Day 1

Thu 18

1840

Sat 20 Sat 20 - Sun 21

CB

ISC

Spring Series 1

ECSC

Round the Isle of Wight Solo

SORC

Etchells Southern Area Championships & Daring Spring Challenge

RLYC

Sun 21

1000

Spring Series - Day 2

ISC

Tue 23

1840

Evening Race Series starts (every Tuesday)

ISC

Thu 25

1840

Spring Series 2

Sat 27

0800

Cowes - Owers - Cowes

Sat 27 - Sun 28

SL

ECSC JOG

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series

RCYC

Sun 28

1000

Spring Series - Day 3

ISC

Tue 30

1840

Evening Race Series 2

ISC

Thu 2

1840

Spring Series 3

Fri 3

1900

RS Divers St Vaast Race

JOG

Sat 4

1000

MAY 2013

Sat 4 - Mon 6 Sat 4 - Mon 6

SL

ECSC

Cervantes Trophy Race

RORC

Etchells European Championships

CCYC

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series

RLYC

Sun 5

1000

Spring Series - Day 4

ISC

Tue 7

1840

Evening Race Series 3

ISC

Wed 8

1800

Cowes Business Sonar Regatta

ISC

Thu 9

1840

Spring Series 4

ECSC

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Date

Start

Sat 11 - Sun 12

SL

Event

Club

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series

RYS

Sun 12

1000

Spring Series - Day 5

ISC

Tue 14

1840

Evening Race Series 4

ISC

Wed 15

1800

Cowes Business Sonar Regatta

Thu 16

1840

Spring Series 5

ECSC

Vice Admiral's Cup

RCYC

Fri 17 - Sun 19 Sat 18

1000

Sat 18

Hamble Estate Agency Cowes - Yarmouth - Cowes Race City Livery Yacht Club Regatta

Sat 18 - Sun 19 Sat 18 - Sun 19

Manches Cup (Legal Sector) CB

Sat 18 - Sun 19 Sun 19

1000

Mon 20 - Fri 24

ISC

JOG RCYC Brit Ev

Cowes Keelboat Championship 1

RLYC

Seafever Regatta

CCYC

Spring Series - Day 6

ISC

IDOR Regatta

ISC

Evening Race Series 5

ISC

Tue 21

1840

Thu 23

1840

Spring Series 6

ECSC

Fri 24

1900

Deauville Race (RLYC, RSrnYC, JOG, Deauville YC)

RLYC

Sat 25

0930

Sat 25

Myth of Malham Race ISC Inshore Series - Christchurch Bay Race

Sat 25

1830

Gort Cup Race

RORC ISC ECSC

Sat 25 - Sun 26

Bank of England Regatta

RCYC

Sat 25 - Mon 27

Dragon Jubilee Regatta

RCYC

Sat 25 - Mon 27

SL

Sun 26 Mon 27 - Fri 31

CB

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series & John Dibben Memorial Trophy (Darings)

ISC

Moody Owners Regatta

ISC

Cornerstone Cup

RYS

Tue 28

1840

Evening Race Series 6

Tue 28

1000

Classic Boat Musuem Open Day

ISC

Thu 30

1840

Midsummer Series 1

Sat 1

0500

J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race

Sun 2

CB

David Thomas Regatta (incl. Sigma 38 Class)

Mon 3 - Fri 7

CB

Edmiston Trophy

RYS

Evening Race Series 7

ISC

ECSC

JUNE 2013

Tue 4

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ISC RLYC

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Date

Start

Tue 4 - Wed 5

Event

Club

Lutine Lineslip Regatta (Insurance Sector)

Thu 6

1840

Midsummer Series 2

Sat 8

0800

Cowes to Lymington via back of Wight

Sat 8 - Sun 9

SL

ECSC

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series & Cory Cup (Darings)

Tue 11

1840

Evening Race Series 8

Thu 13

1840

Midsummer Series 3

Fri 14

1430

BNY Mellon Challenge Cowes - La Trinite

Fri 14

1600

De Guingand Bowl Race

Fri 14 - Sun 16

CB

Brit Ev

JOG RTYC ISC ECSC JOG RORC

J/80 & J/70 UK National Championships

RYS

Sat 15 - Sun 16

IRC Small Boat Championship

ISC

Sat 15 - Sun 16

BPMI Cup Regatta

ISC

Sat 15 - Sun 16

CB

Cowes Keelboat Championship 2

Tue 18

1840

Evening Race Series 9

Thu 20

1840

Midsummer Series 4

Sat 22

0730

Sat 22 - Sun 23

SL

Sat 22 - Sun 23 Tue 25

1840

Thu 27

1840

Thu 27 Fri 28

ISC ECSC

Sail the Wight

ECSC

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series

RCYC

Portcullis Sailing Club Regatta

RCYC

Evening Race Series 10

ISC

Midsummer Series 5

ECSC

ISC Savills Sonar Regatta 1900

RTYC

ISC

Morgan Cup Race

RORC

Peter Mumford - Beken of Cowes

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Date

Start

Sat 29 - Sun 30

SL

Event

Club

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series

CCYC

Sat 29 - Sun 30

Britannia Challenge

RLYC

Sat 29 - Sun 30

Energy Regatta (Oil & Gas Sectors)

Sun 30

ISC BAE Detica Regatta

Brit Ev ISC

JULY 2013 Mon 1 - Tue 2

Sirmoor Yacht Squadron Regatta

Tue 2

1840

Evening Race Series 11

Thu 4

1840

Midsummer Series 6

RCYC ISC ECSC

Fri 5

1900

Cowes - Brixham

Fri 5 - Sun 7

1025

IRC National Championships

RORC

2.4m, Sonar & Skud Paralympic Open Championship

CCYC

Sat 6 - Sun 7 Sat 6 - Sun 7

CB

Sat 6 - Sat 13

JOG

Cowes Keelboat Championship 3

RYS

Panerai British Classic Week

BCYC

Tue 9

1840

Evening Race Series 12

Thu 11

1840

Late Summer Series 1

ECSC

Fri 12

1200

Cowes - Dinard - St Malo

RORC

Sat 13

ISC

ISC Inshore Series - Solent Race

Sat 13

1310

ISC

ECSC Regatta

ECSC

Sat 13 - Sun 14

ISC Annual Regatta

Sat 13 - Sun 14

Stug Perry Trophy (Darings), Dragon Regatta, & XOD Telegraph Bowl

RCYC

Gazprom Swan European Regatta, Gazprom Swan 60 Worlds & Swan 45 Worlds

RYS

Sat 13 - Fri 19

SL/CB

Mon 15 - Wed 17

Quarter Ton Cup

ISC

RCYC

Hamo Thornycroft

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Date

Event

Club

CB

Cowes Classics Week

RLYC

Tue 16

1840

Evening Race Series 13

ISC

Thu 18

1840

Late Summer Series 2

Mon 15 - Fri 19

Start

ECSC

Sat 20 - Sun 21

SL

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series

Mon 22 - Thu 25

CB

Colonial Cup

Tues 23

1840

Thu 25

1840

Sat 27

SL

Sat 27

1000

Sat 27 - Sun 28

SL

Sat 27 - Sun 28 Sat 27 - Sun 28

SL

Sat 27 - Wed 31 Tue 30

ISC RLYC

Evening Race Series 14

ISC

Late Summer Series 3

ECSC

IRC Solent Region Championship Channel Race

RYS RORC

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series & Chevrons Cup (Darings)

RYS

Etchells Bedrock Trophy

ISC

Household Division Yacht Club (HDYC) / RYS Regatta

HDYC /RYS

Cowes Dinghy Week

GSC

1840

Evening Race Series 15

ISC

1840

Late Summer Series 4

ECSC

Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week 2013

CWL

AUGUST 2013 Thu 1 Sat 3 - Sat 10 Sun 11

1200

Rolex Fastnet Race

Tue 13

1840

Evening Race Series 16

Thu 15

1840

RORC ISC

Late Summer Series 5

ECSC

Thu 15 - Sun 18

Old Gaffers Association (OGA) Jubilee Festival

OGA

Sat 17

Mini Ton Cup Regatta

ISC

Sat 17

Old Gaffers Jubilee Race

ISC

Tue 20

1000

Classic Boat Museum Open Day

Tue 20

1840

Evening Race Series 17

Thu 22

1830

Mass start & Ladies Series 2 Brambles Cricket Match - Evening Low Water

Thu 22 Fri 23

ISC

1300

ECSC ISC

The Channel Race Cowes - St Peter Port

COWES.co.uk

JOG

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Date

Start

Sat 24 - Mon 26

CB

Sun 24 - Mon 26

Event

Club

175th Anniversary Regatta

RLYC

Spread Eagle Regatta

RCYC RLYC

Sat 24 - Mon 26

CB/SL

Daring Regatta (incl. Ladies Race & P&E Egan Trophy)

Tue 27

1840

Evening Race Series 18

Thu 29

1840

Late Summer Series 6

ECSC

Fri 30 - Sun 1

Cowes Classic Powerboat Rally

COPC

Fri 30 - Sun 1

2K Keelboat Regatta

Sat 31 - Sun 1

CB

ISC

ISC

Cowes Keelboat Championship 4

CCYC

BPRC

SEPTEMBER 2013 Sun 1

0900

Cowes Classic Offshore Powerboat Race

Sun 1

1000

Autumn Series - Day 1 Profile Sailing Cup (Hospitality, Travel & Tourism Sectors)

Mon 2 - Tue 3 Tue 3

1840

Bang & Go Back Race

Thu 5

1830

Mass start & Ladies Series 3

Fri 6

1900

Cherbourg Race

Sat 7

0830

Doyle Sails Cowes - Poole Race via back of Wight

Sat 7

1030

Windsor Cup

Thu 5

Lloyds Register Sonar Regatta

Sat 7 - Sun 8

SL

Sun 8

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series Forts Race

Sun 8

1000

Autumn Series - Day 2

Thu 12 - Sun 15

SL/CB

Little Britain Challenge Cup

Fri 13 - Sun 15 Sat 14 - Sun 15 Sun 15

Etchells UK Nationals CB

Brit Ev ISC ECSC ISC RORC JOG RLYC RYS CCYC ISC RYS CCYC

Cowes Keelboat Championship 5

ISC

1000

Autumn Series - Day 3

ISC

1800

Cherbourg II

Thu 19 - Fri 20 Fri 20

ISC

EMC Silicon Cup (IT & Telecoms Sectors)

Brit Ev JOG

Sat 21

IRC Solent Region Championship & ISC Inshore Series - Nab Tower Race

ISC

Sat 21

Nicholsons Regatta

ISC

Sat 21

London Corinthian Sailing Club Offshore Rally

RCYC

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series

RLYC

Sat 21 - Sun 22 Sun 22

106

SL 1000

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Autumn Series - Day 4

ISC

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Date

Start

Sun 22 Mon 23 - Fri 27

Club

IRC Solent Region Championship & Tiny Mitchell Trophy

RCYC

SOCA UKBA Regatta

Sat 28 - Sun 29 Sun 29

Event

CB 1000

ISC

Cowes Keelboat Championship 6 Autumn Series - Day 5

RCYC ISC

OCTOBER 2013 Sat 5

0830

Sat 5

0900

Sat 5 - Sun 6 Sun 6

SL 1000

Sat 12 - Sun 13 Sat 12 - Sun 13 Sat 12 - Sun 13

SL

Sat 12 - Sun 13 Sat 19

CB

Tue 29

1000

10th ASTO Cowes Small Ships Regatta Eastern Approaches Race

RLYC JOG

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series

CCYC

Autumn Series - Day 6

ISC

John Lewis Regatta

ISC

Etchells Mid-October Series

CCYC

Cowes Keelboat Solent Series

RTYC

Arrow Trophy

RCYC

Jenny Anne Cup

RLYC

Classic Boat Musuem Open Day

DECEMBER 2013 Thu 26

Annual Boxing Day Race

CCYC

Peter Mumford - Beken of Cowes

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Cowes Directory Index .......................................

Accommodation: B&Bs, Guesthouses, & Hotels

110

Accommodation: Self Catering & Cowes Houses Artists & Galleries

Garages

118

Gift Shops

118

110

Harbour Services

120

110

Health & Beauty

120

Bait Supplies

112

Jewellers

120

Banks & Cash Machines

112

Marinas, Moorings & Berths

120

Boat Builders & Repairers

112

Marine Engineers & Electronics

122

Boat Graphics & Hull Stripes

112

Marine Parts & Spares

122

Marine Services

122

Marketing

122

Boat Lifting, Cleaning & Maintenance

112

Boatyard Services, Boat Storage & Transport 112

Medical Centres, Doctors & Dentists

124

Breakdown Assistance

114

Nautical Books

124

Business Services

114

Opticians

124

Bus Services

114

Cafes, Takeaways & Ice Cream Parlours

114

Chandlers, Hardware & Paint

115

Chemists

115

Clothing & Fashion (see also Chandlers)

115

Communications & PR

116

Delicatessens

117

Design

116

Dry Sailing & Dry Stack

118

Ferries

118

Fuel & Gas

118

Photographers

124

Post Offices

125

Publishing

126

Pubs, Bars & Clubs

126

Race Marks & Buoyancy Systems

128

Restaurants

128

RIB & Powerboat Charter

132

Rigging & Yacht Services

132

Taxis

132

Water Taxis

133

Yacht Clubs & Associations

133

Hamo Thornycroft

108

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Cowes Directory .............................

Accommodation: B&Bs, Guesthouses, & Hotels 24 Ward Avenue Cowes PO31 8AY

01983 292070

Anchor B&B 40 Birmingham Road, Cowes PO31 7BH

01983 292629

Endeavour House 47 Mill Hill Rd, Cowes PO31 7EG 01983 297406 / 07850 205994 www.endeavourhousecowes.co.uk enquiries@endeavourhousecowes.co.uk Mimosa Lodge 59 Baring Road, Cowes PO31 8DW

01983 241490

The Beach House 10 Princes Esplanade, Cowes PO31 8LE 07879 400342 www.thebeachhousecowes.co.uk patsy@thebeachhousecowes.co.uk The Caledon Guest House 01983 293599 The Caledon is a family run B&B in Cowes on the beautiful Isle of Wight. We offer modern, comfortable accommodation, tasty filling breakfasts & friendly service.

59 Mill Hill Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 7EG www.the-caledon.co.uk stay@the-caledon.co.uk

Accommodation: Self Catering & Cowes Houses

Mizpah House

Superior self catering accommodation, sleeps 14 55 Beckford Road, Cowes, 01983 293463,

www.mizpah-house.com

Mizpah House 55 Beckford Road, Cowes PO31 7SJ 01983 293463 www.mizpah-house.com suerogerson@mizpah-house.com Quay Management 36 Woodvale Road, Cowes www.quaymanagement.co.uk

01983 291369 / 07773 339730 sarah@quaymanagement.co.uk

Waverley Park Holiday Centre 01983 293452 Within walking distance of Chain Ferry & Red Funnel ferry terminal. Panoramic sea views. Static caravans / holiday flats / touring pitches / camping. Bar/evening meals.

51 Old Road, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6AW www.waverley-park.co.uk sue@waverley-park.co.uk

Artists & Galleries

Your choice of any chart from around the British Isles produced as a high quality canvas picture to create a contemporary nautical feel to any room.

www.chartart.co.uk

2nd Floor, Cowes Yacht Haven, Cowes PO31 7BD Tel: 07798 735345 annika@livingbytheseaside.com

Call 01983 200336 to advertise here

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Relax & unwind in one of our individually styled bedrooms.

We can accommodate single, double or families.

Rooms to suit your budget. All rooms are en-suite.

At Albert Cottage Hotel we pride ourselves on the delicious food & top quality service provided in the Consort Restaurant.

York Avenue | East Cowes | Isle of Wight | PO32 6BD albertcottagehotel.com 01983 299309

The Best Western New Holmwood Hotel is situated at Egypt Point in Cowes, home to a multitude of world famous yachting events.

The hotel offers fantastic panoramic views across the Solent from its public areas with the enchanting town of Cowes being only a 15-20 minute walk along the waterfront.

We have 26 rooms, all with Sky Television, hair dryer, trouser press, tea and coffee making facilities, direct dial telephones and super king size beds.

There is also a bar, free WiFi, 3 lounges, patio areas, and free parking.

Tel: 01983 292508 Queens Road, Egypt Point, Cowes, IW PO31 8BW www.newholmwoodhotel.co.uk

COWES.co.uk

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Bait Supplies Barney’s Bait Supplies 2 Bridge Road, Cowes PO31 7PD

01983 280704

Banks & Cash Machines HSBC Bank plc 86 High Street, Cowes PO31 7AN Lloyds TSB 121 High Street, Cowes PO31 7AY NatWest Bank plc 104 HIgh Street, Cowes PO31 7AU

Boat Builders & Repairers Corby Yachts 88 High Street, Cowes PO31 7AW

07798 753962

Kingston Marine Boatyard 01983 293952 Lifting & storage up to 40 tonnes. Wet blast anti-foul removal, anti-fouling, anode changing, hull cleaning, polishing, painting, engine repairs, servicing & winterisation.

Kingston Road, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6JS www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk kmb.chc@cowes.co.uk Richardsons Yacht Services Ltd Newport www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095

Boat Graphics & Hull Stripes Naughty Gull Marine Graphics 01676 540769 / 07841 641232 UK based sign studio specialising in marine graphics & manufacturing multi coloured boat hull stripes & replacement decals for boats & yachts worldwide.

Hazeldene, Tamworth Road, Corley, North Warwickshire CV7 8BT www.naughtygull.com sales@naughtygull.com

Boat Lifting, Cleaning & Maintenance Kingston Marine Boatyard

01983 293952 40t WISE hoist dock & wash down area. Wet blast anti-foul removal. Anti-fouling, anode changing, hull cleaning, polishing & painting, engine repairs & servicing.

Kingston Road, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6JS www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk kmb.chc@cowes.co.uk Marine & Property Care

www.cowesribs.com mcasson@aol.com

07979 495537

Richardsons Yacht Services Ltd Newport www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095 Shepards Wharf Marina

01983 293952 Dry sailing centre with mobile crane for vessels up to 5t. Emergency lifts available.

Day boat & RIB maintenance including cleaning, anti-fouling, polishing, shrink wrap.

Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 7HT www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk shepards.chc@cowes.co.uk

Boatyard Services, Boat Storage & Transport Kingston Marine Boatyard 01983 293952 Secure storage for over 100 boats up to 40t. The in-house team offers all aspects of boat maintenance services incl. hull cleaning, anti-fouling & topside maintenance.

Kingston Road, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6JS www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk kmb.chc@cowes.co.uk Richardsons Yacht Services Ltd Newport www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095

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B OAT YA R D

The Kingston team can take care of all marine projects large or small and the yard is also freely available for those doing it themselves. Great prices and facilities make us the choice for Island and mainland boat owners.

HULL CLEANING • ANTI FOULING POLISHING & PAINTING ANODES • CRANE SERVICES ENGINE SERVICING • STORAGE • CHANDLERY RIGGING • GUARDINAGE • SPECIAL PROJECTS

Kingston Wharf, East Cowes Isle of Wight, PO32 6JS 01983 293952 kmb.chc@cowes.co.uk www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk COWES.co.uk

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Boatyard Services, Boat Storage & Transport Shepards Wharf Marina 01983 293952 Storage of trailered boats on dedicated hard standing, shrink wrapping, cleaning, anti-fouling and polishing. Year round dry sailing packages and full marina services.

Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 7HT www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk shepards.chc@cowes.co.uk

Breakdown Assistance Richardsons Yacht Services Ltd Newport www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095

Business Services Bishops Insurance 6 Shooters Hill, Cowes PO31 7BE Seven Seas Fabrications Ltd Winford Farm, Winford PO36 0JX www.sevenseas.com

01983 200123 07871 484794 nigelkerr@live.com

Bus Services Southern Vectis Bus times: 0871 200 2233 www.islandbuses.info

Head office: 01983 827000 talk2us@southernvectis.com

Cafes, Takeaways & Ice Cream Parlours Eegon’s of Cowes 72 High Street, Cowes PO31 7RE

01983 291815

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Chandlers, Hardware & Paint

JOLLIFFES CHANDLERY Brands in stock include:

Crewsaver

LEWMAR

EVERYTHING FOR YOUR BOAT

2-4 Birmingham Road, Cowes Tel: 01983 290100 Kingston Marine Boatyard 01983 293952 On-site chandlery stocks anti-foul, anodes and a selection of associated consumables for your convenience.

Kingston Road, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6JS www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk kmb.chc@cowes.co.uk Pascall Atkey & Son 29-30 High Street, Cowes PO31 7RX

01983 292381

Richardsons Yacht Services Ltd Newport www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095

Chemists Boots Pharmacy Cowes Medical Centre, 200 Newport Rd PO31 7ER Day Lewis Pharmacy 7 High Street, Cowes PO31 7SA Lloyds Pharmacy Church Path, East Cowes PO32 6RP Regent Pharmacy Well Road, East Cowes PO32 6SP

01983 294467 01983 293011 01983 293133 01983 717002

Clothing & Fashion (see also Chandlers) Ocean World Online Cowes

www.oceanworld.co.uk

01983 291744

Jonathan Hoare

COWES.co.uk

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solent communications marketing/design/pr digital/content/brand socialmedia/publish digital/content/brand socialmedia/publish seo/video/media/email strategy/website/copy aLet r us t whelpo you r k to/ pachieve h o treal o gresults r a pwith h our dedicated public relations team. advertise/print/distribut Speak to our Island based team on 01983 200336 or visit us at Solent.co/pr

solent

co

solent communications marketing/design/pr digital/content/brand socialmedia/publish digital/content/brand socialmedia/publish seo/video/media/email strategy/website/copy aCreative r t w design o r kservices / p h ofrom t ocorporate g r a pidentity h and logos to brochure and leaflet artwork. advertise/print/distribut Speak to our Island based team on 01983 200336 or visit us at Solent.co/design

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Communications & PR Solent 01983 200336 Let us help you to achieve real results. Visit our website or speak to our Islandbased team.

Suite 7, 30 Quay Street, Newport PO30 5BA www.solent.co info@solent.co

Delicatessens The Food Hamper Delicatessen 116 High Street, Cowes PO31 7AX

01983 295680

Design Solent 01983 200336 Corporate identity & logo design to brochure & leaflet artwork. Visit our website or speak to our Island-based team.

Suite 7, 30 Quay Street, Newport PO30 5BA www.solent.co info@solent.co

Hamo Thornycroft

COWES.co.uk

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Dry Sailing & Dry Stack Cowes Dry Sailing Centre Clarence Rd, East Cowes PO32 6TA 01983 282438 www.drysailing.co.uk sales@drysailing.co.uk Richardsons Yacht Services Ltd Newport www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095 Shepards Wharf Marina 01983 293952 Flexible annual & seasonal Dry Sailing packages. Block paved hard standing & marina berthing. Ribs & day boats, home to Cowes Etchell & J80 Dry Sailing Fleets.

Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 7HT www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk shepards.chc@cowes.co.uk

Ferries Hovertravel Ltd Quay Road, Ryde PO33 2HB

08434 878887

Red Funnel Ferries 12 Bugle Street, Southampton, SO14 2JY 0844 8449988 www.redfunnel.co.uk post@redfunnel.co.uk Wightlink Gunwharf Road, Portsmouth PO1 2LA

0871 376 1000

Fuel & Gas Cowes Harbour Fuels 01983 200716 / 01983 293952 Open 7 days a week supplying petrol and red diesel, Calor gas & engine oils to commercial & leisure users in the Solent. All red diesel is biodiesel free.

Harbour Office, Town Quay, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 7AS www.cowesharbourfuels.co.uk

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 200 METRES SOUTH OF CHAIN FERRY DIESEL • PETROL • OIL • GAS BIO DIESEL FREE

01983 200716

www.cowesharbourfuels.co.uk

VHF CH69

Garages Bannisters Garage 01983 290443 Servicing & general repairs for all makes of vehicle. Automotive transmission specialists. MOT testing for petrol & diesel engine vehicles.

Bridge Rd, Cowes PO31 7PB www.bannistersgarage.co.uk enquiries@bannistersgarage.co.uk

Gift Shops Rock on the Dock 9 The Arcade, Cowes PO31 7AR www.rockonthedock.co.uk

01983 293463 info@rockonthedock.co.uk

Advertising enquiries - Tel: 01983 200336 118

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DRY SAILING CENTRE

Come and dry sail at Shepards Wharf, proud to be the home of a growing RIB and dry sailing fleet.

FLEXIBLE PACKAGES • OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK LIFT & LAUNCH CHECKS • FULL CRANE SERVICES CCTV • FREE WIFI • INCLUSIVE SHOWERS

Medina Road, Cowes, PO30 7HT 01983 293952 drysailing@cowes.co.uk www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk COWES.co.uk

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Harbour Services Kingston Marine Services 01983 293952 Specialists in design, supply, positioning of mooring systems, pontoon maintenance, vessel hire, localised towing, stores, logistics, transportation & bed levelling.

Kingston Road, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6JS www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk kms.chc@cowes.co.uk

Health & Beauty

Sports Massage, Holistic and Beauty Treatments 8 Birmingham Road, Cowes, IW, PO31 7BH Appointments 01983 296655 www.becalmedincowes.co.uk

Jewellers Benzie of Cowes 61 High Street, Cowes PO31 7RL www.benzie.co.uk

01983 293932 sales@benzie.co.uk

Marinas, Moorings & Berths

Mill Lane Binfield Newport Isle of Wight PO30 2LA

Island Harbour Marina is one of the Solent’s best-kept secrets. Conveniently situated two miles from the south of Cowes, it’s one of the most picturesque riverside locations.

Set in the peaceful surroundings is The Breeze Restaurant and Bar. Open all day and under new management from January 2013, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind whilst enjoying award winning wines and fresh locally sourced produce. reservations: 01983 533 388 email: thebreeze@island-harbour.co.uk twitter: @iow_thebreeze www.island-harbour.co.uk/thebreeze

Cowes Yacht Haven Vectis Yard, High Street, Cowes PO31 7BD

01983 2999975

Moreton Marine Unit 106 Medina Village, Bridge Rd, Cowes PO31 7LP 01983 299275 www.moretonmarine.co.uk info@moretonmarine.co.uk Shepards Wharf Marina 01983 293952 Visitor & residential marina in Cowes. Rallies & regatta events catered. Elec, water, pump out, free showers, WiFi, CCTV, Basque restaurant, sail maker & dive centre.

Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 7HT www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk shepards.chc@cowes.co.uk

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Only a stone’s throw from the High Street, our welcoming staff make Shepards the perfect choice for your club rally or overnight stay INCLUSIVE SHOWERS • FREE WIFI • BASQUE RESTAURANT ONSITE BERTHING MASTERS • CRANE SERVICES • CCTV RALLIES & REGATTAS CATERED

Shepards Wharf Marina Medina Road, Cowes, PO30 7HT Tel: 01983 297821 shepards.chc@cowes.co.uk www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk COWES.co.uk

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Marine Engineers & Electronics Kingston Marine Boatyard 01983 293952 Professional boat maintenance services carried out by fully trained onsite personnel including engine repairs, servicing, winterisation and electronics.

Kingston Road, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6JS www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk kmb.chc@cowes.co.uk Richardsons Yacht Services Ltd Newport www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095 Wroath Marine Ltd Unit 7, Cowes Yacht Haven, Cowes PO31 7AY

01983 281467

Marine Parts & Spares Kingston Marine Boatyard 01983 293952 On-site chandlery providing anti-foul paints, marine and commercial oil & lubricants, anodes, brushes, paint rollers & trays, gloves, polish & cleaners.

Kingston Road, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6JS www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk kmb.chc@cowes.co.uk Richardsons Yacht Services Ltd Newport www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095

Marine Services Bucklers Hard Boat Builders Ltd www.bucklershard.co.uk

01590 616214

Marketing Solent 01983 200336 We keep marketing simple and get results quickly. Visit our website or speak to our Island-based team.

Suite 7, 30 Quay Street, Newport PO30 5BA www.solent.co info@solent.co

solent communications marketing/design/pr digital/content/brand socialmedia/publish digital/content/brand socialmedia/publish seo/video/media/email We s keep t r amarketing t e g y simple / w eand b get s i results t e / cquickly. opy Speak team a r ttowouroIsland r k /based pho t oong01983 r a p200336 h or visit us at Solent.co/marketing advertise/print/distribut

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Marine Equipment Specialists • Boat painting & varnishing • Engine repower centre • Marine electronics specialist • 35 tonne hoist & storage • Marine engineering

• Heating & cooking specialist

• Bespoke fabrication

• Boat restoration & refit

Kabola Diesel Heater

Wallas Diesel Cookers

Victron Energy

Sole Engines

Visit our website for the latest offers and news: www.bucklers.co.uk Bucklers Hard Boat Builders Limited The Agamemnon Boat Yard, Bucklers Hard, Beaulieu, Hampshire SO42 7XB Phone: (01590) 616214 Fax: (01590) 616267 Email: info@bucklers.co.uk COWES.co.uk

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Medical Centres, Doctors & Dentists Amery House Dental Service 6 Terminus Road, Cowes PO31 7TG

01983 291863

Cowes Medical Centre 200 Newport Road, Cowes PO31 7ER

01983 295251

East Cowes Medical Centre Church Path, East Cowes PO32 6RR

01983 284333

Island Dental Services 34 Castle Street, East Cowes PO32 6RD

01983 291423

Park Road Dental Practice 169 Park Road, Cowes PO31 7NJ

01983 293771

St Mary’s Hospital A&E Parkhurst Road, Newport PO30 5TG

01983 524081

Nautical Books Fun for kids (5-8), local author, special offers

owlskeep@hotmail.co.uk

Opticians Willetts & Doig Optometrists 21-22 High Street, Cowes PO31 7RY

01983 293181

Photographers Beautiful Wight Images 07901 388188 Beautiful images from locations on the Island, including marine. Available as cards and prints and for use commercially.

10 Bellevue Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7HL www.virtuallywight.co.uk jcbeasley@hotmail.co.uk Beken of Cowes 16 Birmingham Road, Cowes PO31 7BH www.beken.co.uk

01983 297311 beken@beken.co.uk

Hamo Thornycroft Marine Photography 11 Shooters Hill, Cowes 07971 106757 www.yacht-photos.co.uk hamo@yacht-photos.co.uk

HOARE PHOTOJOURNALISM

Private, Commercial and Event Photojournalism

www.jonathanhoare.com

0777 2200778

Paul Wyeth Marine Photography 07549 884683 Marine photography that gets to the heart of the action. Delivering creative images, and regularly featured in the top marine publications in the UK and overseas.

Cowes www.pwpictures.com paul@pwpictures.com Rick Tomlinson Photography Cowes Yacht Haven, Cowes PO31 7BD 07785 317198 www.rick-tomlinson.com rick@rick-tomlinson.com

What’s on in Cowes?

Find out at COWES.co.uk/events 124

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BEKEN of COWES Photographing at Sea since the 1880s WWW.BEKEN.CO.UK BEKEN@BEKEN.CO.UK Tel: 01983 297311 16 Birmingham Rd, Cowes, PO31 7BH. UK

CHRIS BOYNTON MARINE PHOTOGRAPHY Limited Edition Sailing Photography Prints

by Chris Boynton available from: Galerias of Cowes, 75-76 High Street, Cowes, PO31 7AJ or direct from www.chrisboynton.co.uk

Post Offices Cowes Post Office Terminus Road, Cowes PO31 7XH

01983 299120

East Cowes Post Office 9 Well Road, East Cowes PO32 6SP

01983 297795

Chris Boynton

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Publishing Solent 01983 200336 Publishers of many of the Island’s most popular print titles including the Cowes Port Handbook & Taste of the Wight.

Suite 7, 30 Quay Street, Newport PO30 5BA www.solent.co info@solent.co

Pubs, Bars & Clubs Bargeman’s Rest Little London, Newport Quay, PO30 5BS

01983 525828

Boutique en-suite accommodation at the

Union Inn - Cowes Individually themed, en-suite rooms featuring: WiFi • Flat screen TVs • DVD player CD player • Telephone • Tea & coffee facilities Watchouse Lane Cowes, IW, PO31 7QH Check availability at: www.unioninn.eu Or call: 01983 293163

Peter Mumford - Beken of Cowes

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COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014 Britannia Way • East Cowes • PO32 6UB 01983 292711 manager@thelifeboatcowes.co.uk www.thelifeboatcowes.co.uk www.facebook.com/thelifeboatcowes

Situated on the waterfront of the Medina River in East Cowes, The Lifeboat is already one of the area’s most popular bars and restaurants.

We offer a warm welcome to locals and visitors alike – from land or water! Sally’s Water Taxis will transport you across the river if you’re coming from West Cowes, whilst landlubbers can walk or drive to us via East Cowes.

We have also catered for numerous wedding receptions - if you would like more information about this, please contact us for details.

1-3 High Street • Cowes • PO31 7SA 01983 292823 manager@theanchorcowes.co.uk www.theanchorcowes.co.uk www.facebook.com/theanchorcowes

The Anchor is situated at the very heart of the Cowes Yachting scene. Opposite the Cowes Yacht Haven and only a short walk from the Red Jet terminal it is the ideal place to relax after a hard day on the waves.

The Anchor offers good hearty food, traditional ales and a warm welcome throughout the year.

Open all year round and offering a choice of daily specials from the blackboard, The Anchor is always full of atmosphere. Summertime eat outside in the stable yard; Winter draw in by the blazing fire and while away a few hours.

The Anchor also provides comfortable, clean and affordable accommodation.

For more information call: 01983 292823.

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Race Marks & Buoyancy Systems

16m MULTI-CAT, 8t DECK WINCH & 30tm CRANE 10m WORK BOAT AND TUG FULL MOORING SYSTEMS DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION BUOY LAYING / REPAIR & RECOVERY TOWAGE / BED LEVELLING

KINGSTON WHARF, EAST COWES 01983 293952 www.kingstonmarineservices.co.uk

Kingston Marine Services 01983 293952 Design, supply, positioning & maintenance of buoys, navigational marks, seasonal race marks, temporary marks and mooring buoys and all floating navigation aids.

Kingston Road, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6JS www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk kms.chc@cowes.co.uk Seaflex Ltd Seaview Road, Cowes PO31 7US

01983 290525

Restaurants The Fishbourne Fishbourne Lane, Fishbourne PO33 4EU

01983 882823

The New Inn Main Road, Shalfleet PO30 4NS

01983 531314

Lugleys of Cowes .............................

Located on The Parade with fantastic views of the Solent, Lugleys of Cowes cherishes its reputation for stunning food, bubbly service and contemporary chic surroundings. Renowned for the quality of its food with menus created and overseen by Dorchester Hotel chef, Musa Jobi, Lugleys certainly is the chameleon of the town.

By day, full English crew breakfasts leading to a bustling Cafe Bar, serving drinks and an amazing selection of light lunches. By night a chic Bar Restaurant providing the best that Cowes can offer, with fresh fish, Island meats and fresh produce always a priority.

Crews are especially welcome with table configurations to suit and the stylish outside dining terrace is a must, simply sit, relax and watch the yachts and liners pass by. A private dining area sits just off the main bar & restaurant, perfect for larger parties, special occasions or presentations with options including canapés and buffets, all priced to suit your budget.

Whatever time of day, if you’re coming ashore head for Lugleys of Cowes, the ‘restaurant with a view’. Just along from the Royal London Yacht Club on Cowes Parade.

Open from 1000 until late.

Bookings -‐ Cafe – Bar – Dining -‐ Tel: 01983 299618.

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Lugleys Cowes Handbook Ad 92x195 2013_Layout 1 05/03/2013 14:14 Page COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

OFRFS 10% T – N HU ert MOth this adv Wi

H ANY N LID WIT NOT VAR PROMOTIO OTHE

I We are I renowned for

fresh

local seafood

STEAKS

——— and ———

Located on Cowes Promenade

Overlooking The Solent.

Set Menus MONDAY TO THURSDAY Lunch 12–5 2 Course £11.95 3 Course £15.95

Evening 5–10 2 Course £15.95 3 Course £18.95

A la carte 12–10

TO BOOK Call us on:

01983 299618

STEAKS FROM THE LOCAL BUTCHER

CREWS WELCOME LARGE HEATED TERRACE SEAFOOD PLATTERS LARGE BAR WITH REAL ALES

ISLAND STEAKS

or just walk in:

THE PARADE, COWES, ISLE OF WIGHT PO31 7QS

COWES’ SEAFOOD & STEAK RESTAURANT COWES.co.uk

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The ideal wedding venue.

We also cater for all functions, private parties, and group bookings.

The highly skilled team of chefs create a varied menu each day to cater for most tastes using fresh seasonal produce.

We strive to use local Island ingredients whenever possible.

York Avenue | East Cowes | Isle of Wight | PO32 6BD albertcottagehotel.com 01983 299309

Anchor up and come and dine with us in our superb sea facing restaurant featuring, top quality cuisine from our hotel’s experienced team.

Our hotel is licensed for civil wedding ceremonies, wedding receptions, private parties and conference facilities all with a service that is both professional and friendly.

We are open to non-residents all year round, seven days a week for fine dining and overnight accommodation.

Tel: 01983 292508 Queens Road, Egypt Point, Cowes, IW PO31 8BW www.newholmwoodhotel.co.uk

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Photo by David Glaves

SAIL AWAY DAYS

THE NEW INN is an award winning historic pub set at the foot of Newtown Esturary, visiting yachtsman can moor at Shalfleet Quay 50º43’.45N, 01º24’.66W (www.shalfleetquay.co.uk), or telephone the harbour master on 01983 531424 or take a five minute taxi from Yarmouth harbour to the pub to enjoy fine food with attentive service in a unique ambiance.

A Excellent reputation for Seafood A Large Al Fresco Dining Area A Selection of Real Ales and hand pulled Ciders A Over 70 wines A Specialising in local produce A Food served from 12.00pm to 9.30pm during season A Opening times 9am - 11pm everyday, breakfast served from 9am - 11am

www.thenew-inn.co.uk MICHELIN PUB GUIDE 2013 Tel: 01983 531314 (BOOKINGS ADVISABLE) email: info@thenew-inn.co.uk IOW DINING PUB OF THE YEAR 2012 & 2013 Main Road, Shalfleet, IOW PO30 4NS

THE STAG is a refurbished pub on the main Cowes to Newport road, with four 4 new en-suite bedrooms, and is the latest addition to the award winning IOW group of pubs that include The New Inn, The Fishbourne and The Boathouse.

A short taxi ride from Cowes Marina visitors will experience great food with friendly efficient service in great surroundings.

A OPENING MAY 2013 A Large Al fresco dining area A Local IOW Ales · Over 70 wines A Overnight Bed & Breakfast A Food served from 12 - 9.30pm everyday, breakfast served 8am - 11am everyday A Opening times 8am - 11pm everyday

www.thestagiow.co.uk Tel: 01983 522709 (BOOKINGS ADVISABLE) email: info@thestagiow.co.uk Cowes Road, Newport, IOW PO30 5TW

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Restaurants

AMABI

Bringing a taste of Basque Country to the Isle of Wight

Basque Restaurant - Unit A & B, Shepards Wharf, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7HT tel: 01983 716164 management@amabi.co.uk www.amabi.co.uk

RIB & Powerboat Charter Fynn Marine Unit 10 Medina Court, Arctic Road, Cowes PO31 7XD

01983 282101

Marine & Property Care 07979 495537 Pleasure rides, marine support, bespoke, corporate & commercial charters. Race spectators, event media, camera crews, photographers & crew transfers.

Cowes based experienced local driver. www.cowesribs.com mcasson@aol.com Solent Rib Charter Unit 6, Dell Buildings, Milford Rd, Lymington, Hants 07887 635000

Rigging & Yacht Services Richardsons Yacht Services Ltd Newport www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk 01983 821095

Spencer Rigging

• Manufacture • Supply • Install

THE LEADING NAME IN RIGGING Large stocks of rigging components, wire & rope, enabling immediate replacement of damaged items www.spencerrigging.co.uk sales@spencerrigging.co.uk 01983 292022 Emergency out of hours: 07791 123971 St Mary’s Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 7SX Taxis Cowes Taxi 77 Place Road, Cowes PO31 7AE

01983 294444

Jones Taxis East Cowes

01983 282822

Rounsevell Cars 10 Mayfield Road, East Cowes PO32 6DN

01983 280800

We’ve got Cowes covered!

Target the local sailing & boating audience Call 01983 200336 to advertise 132

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Water Taxis Cowes Harbour Taxi 07855 767918 VHF 77 call sign “Cowes Harbour Taxi”. When off duty calls are diverted to Sally Water Taxi.

Harbour Office, Town Quay, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 7AS www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk Island Harbour Ferry Chris: 07825 016943 or Kath: 07964 075621 VHF Ch 8. Water taxi from Newport calling at Island Harbour marina, Cowes, & mainland. Harbour trips & night ferry service available, plus 30 minute trips from Cowes to Hamble Village. www.islandharbourferry.co.uk info@islandharbourferry.co.uk

Yacht Clubs & Associations Cowes Week Limited Regatta House, 18 Bath Rd, Cowes PO31 7QN

01983 295744

Royal London Yacht Club The Parade, Cowes PO31 7QS

01983 299727

The Castle, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7QT 01983 292191 www.rys.org.uk

Rick Tomlinson

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Cowes Tide Tables 2013-2014 ......................................................

Rise and fall of the tide at Cowes

Times are referred to Low Water at Portsmouth

Heights are in metres above Chart Datum

Tidal levels referred to datum of soundings Places

Lat N

Long W

Height in metres above datum Chart datum and reference to OS datum MHWS MHWN MLWN MLWS

Cowes

50°46’

1 °18’

4.2

3.5

1.8

0.8

2.59m below Ordnance survey Datum (Newlyn)

Folly Inn

50°44’

1°17’

4.1

3.4

1.8

1.0

2.59m below Ordnance survey Datum (Newlyn)

Newport 50°42’

1°17’

4.1

3.4

2.0

1.6

2.59m below Ordnance survey Datum (Newlyn)

© Crown Copyright and/or database rights.

Reproduced by permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office and the UK Hydrographic Office (www.ukho.gov.uk)

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 31 March to 27 October 2013.

March 2013

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

Rick Tomlinson

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MEMBERS ONLY

UP TO 25%* DISCOUNT ON A NEW VOLVO FOR RYA MEMBERS Because you’re an RYA member, we’ll give you a special discount on any model in the Volvo range - with up to 25%* off the Basic Price before VAT. To take advantage of the RYA members offer, please contact your local dealer. For more information and terms and conditions please contact: RYA Membership Development t. 023 8060 4159 e. member.services@rya.org.uk or visit www.rya.org.uk.

volvocars.co.uk/sailing facebook.com/volvocarssailing

@volvosailing

Fuel consumption and CO2 figures for the Volvo range in mpg (l/100 km): Urban 70.6 (4.0) - 18.6 (15.2), Extra Urban 85.6 (3.3) - 34.9 (8.1), Combined 78.5 (3.6) - 26.4 (10.7). CO2 emissions 249 g/km - 94 g/km.

Savings from 7%* available on V40 Cross Country; up to 25%* available on C70. N.B. The Volvo V40 ES derivatives, Volvo S60 & V60 ‘Business Edition’ derivatives and Volvo V60 Plug In Hybrid are all excluded from this agreement. All non solid paint options are chargeable.

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Cowes Tide Tables 2013

................................

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 31 March to 27 October 2013.

April 2013

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

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Cowes Tide Tables 2013

................................

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 31 March to 27 October 2013.

May 2013

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

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Cowes Tide Tables 2013

................................

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 31 March to 27 October 2013.

June 2013

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

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Cowes Tide Tables 2013

................................

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 31 March to 27 October 2013.

July 2013

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

COWES.co.uk

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Cowes Tide Tables 2013

................................

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 31 March to 27 October 2013.

August 2013

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

140

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Cowes Tide Tables 2013

................................

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 31 March to 27 October 2013.

September 2013

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

COWES.co.uk

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Cowes Tide Tables 2013

................................

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 31 March to 27 October 2013.

October 2013

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

142

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Cowes Tide Tables 2013

................................

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 31 March to 27 October 2013.

November 2013

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

COWES.co.uk

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Cowes Tide Tables 2013

................................

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 31 March to 27 October 2013.

December 2013

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

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Cowes Tide Tables 2014

................................

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 30 March to 26 October 2014.

January 2014

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

COWES.co.uk

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Cowes Tide Tables 2014

................................

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 30 March to 26 October 2014.

February 2014

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

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Cowes Tide Tables 2014

................................

All times are GMT, days highlighted in blue need 1 hour added for British Summer Time 30 March to 26 October 2014.

March 2014

Times and heights of High and Low Water Latitude 50˚46’N Longitude 1˚18’W Time zone UT (GMT)

Full Moon New Moon

COWES.co.uk

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A-Z of Advertisers ................................

24 Ward Avenue

110

Albert Cottage Hotel & Consort Restaurant

111,130

Folly Launch

31

Folly Waterbus

31

Fynn Marine

132

Amery House Dental Service

124

Green Buoy Arts

Anchor B&B

110

Anchor Inn

127

Hamo Thornycroft Marine Photography

124

Amabi

132

Hoare Photojournalism

124

Banisters Garage

118

HSBC Bank plc

112

Bargeman's Rest

61, 126

55

Hovertravel

118

Barney's Bait Supplies

112

Island Dental Services

124

Beautiful Wight Images

124

Island Harbour

120

BeCalmed Spa Therapy Centre 120

Island Harbour Ferry

133

Beken of Cowes

124, 125

Island Sailing Club

77

Benzie of Cowes

IFC, 120, IBC

Isle of Wight Books

151

Best Western New Holmwood Hotel and Restaurant 111, 130

Jolliffes Chandlery

115

Jones Taxis

132

Bishops Insurance

114

Boots Pharmacy

115

J.P. Morgan Asset Management

96, 97

Bucklers Hard Boat Builders 122, 123

Kingston Marine Boatyard 112, 113, 115, 122

Chart Art

Kingston Marine Services 120, 128

110 FC,100

Chatham Marine

Lloyds Pharmacy

115

Lloyds TSB

Chris Boynton Marine Photography

112

125

Lugleys of Cowes

Corby Yachts

112

Cowes Dry Sailing Centre

118

Marine & Property Care 89, 112, 132

Cowes Food Shows

109

Mimosa Lodge

110

OBC

Mizpah House

110

118

Moreton Marine

120

Cowes Harbour Taxi

133

Naughty Gull Marine Graphics 112

Cowes Medical Centre

124

Cowes Post Office

125

Nautical books by Carole F Hughes

124

Cowes Taxi

132

NatWest Bank plc

112

Cowes Harbour Commission Cowes Harbour Fuels

Cowes Week Limited

98, 99, 133

Cowes Yacht Haven

120, 152

Day Lewis Pharmacy

115

East Cowes Medical Centre

124

East Cowes Post Office

125

Eegon’s of Cowes

114

Endeavour House

110

148

COWES.co.uk

128, 129

Oasis Ocean World Online

71 33, 54, 115

Osborne House

57

Park Road Dental Practice

124

Pascall Atkey & Son

115

Paul Wyeth Marine Photography

124

Quay Management

110

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2013-2014

Red Funnel Ferries Red Funnel / Red Jet

118

Southern Vectis

3

114

Spencer Rigging

132

Regent Pharmacy

115

St Mary’s Hospital

124

Rick Tomlinson Photography

124

Steam Coffee Company

114

Richardsons Yacht Services Ltd 73, 112, 114, 115, 118, 122, 132

The Beach House

110

The Caledon Guest House

110

Rock on the Dock

The Classic Boat Museum & Gallery

Rounsevell Cars

55, 118 132

Royal London Yacht Club Royal Yacht Squadron Seaflex Ltd

93, 133 133 29, 128

Sea Start

21

Seven Seas Fabrications Ltd Shepards Wharf Dry Sailing Centre

114 119

Shepards Wharf Marina 112, 114, 118, 120, 121 Sir Max Aitken Museum Solent

90

116, 117, 122, 126

Solent & Wightline Cruises Solent Charters Solent Rib Charter

79 9 132

59

The Fishbourne

128

The Food Hamper Delicatessen 117 The Lifeboat Inn The New Inn

127 128, 131

The Priory Bay Hotel

67

The Stag

131

The Union Inn

126

T.S. Training

7

Volvo Sailing

135

Waverley Park Holiday Centre 110 Wightlink

118

Willetts & Doig Optometrists

124

Wroath Marine Ltd

15, 122

Acknowledgements: Solent, publishers of the Cowes Port Handbook 2013-2014, owe a special “thank you” to: Shirley Robertson, Rick Tomlinson, Peter Mumford, Hamo Thornycroft, Paul Wyeth, Chris Boynton, Jonathan Hoare, Christian Beasley, Ian Roman, Graham Sunderland, Chris Thomas, Geof Hughes, Guy Shelbourne, Sonya RigaudBarrett, Robert Milner, Michelle Warner, Peta Stuart-Hunt, Jo Chugg, Donna Redford, Jill Stevenson, Rob Goddard, Jan Ford, Jo Brown, Capt. David Freeman, John Moore, Becci Brooke, David Gower, Owen Pay, David Franks, Duncan Bates, Andrew Millband, Guy Shelbourne, John Fletcher, Jeremy Field, Ryan Willegers, Alison Beckett, Susan Hawley, English Heritage, Medina Mariners Association, Sir Max Aitken Museum, Cowes RNLI, Cowes Business Association, PC Graphics, Netguides, and all the team at Cowes Harbour Commission.

Important information: The information contained in the Cowes Port Handbook, including illustrations and maps, are not designed to be used for navigation. Positions of racing marks are approximate and users are reminded that the position of buoys may vary depending on the height of tides and strength of wind and tidal streams. The publishers do not, to the fullest extent possible by law, accept liability for any loss, charges, costs, damages or injury of its use or non-use, whether directly or indirectly and however caused. Maps within this Handbook have been produced by PC Graphics (UK) and Solent (IHM Ltd).

While every care has been taken in compiling this Handbook, the publishers do not accept any liability or provide any guarantee that the information is accurate, complete or up-to-date. Solent (IHM Ltd) and its employees and contractors have used their best efforts in preparing these pages and this publication. Solent (IHM Ltd) and its employees and contractors make no warranty of any kind, expressed of implied, with regard to the information supplied. Solent (IHM Ltd) and its employees and contractors shall not be in any way liable in the event of incidental or consequential damages in connection with or arising out of the providing of the information offered here.

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Glossary ................

An introduction to some of the nautical terms used in the Cowes Port Handbook.

Backstay - a wire support for the mast, usually running from the masthead to the stern of the boat Bar - a shallow patch extending across the mouth of a river or harbour Beacon - a rigid mark or post that is fixed into the sea bed Beaufort Wind Scale - defines wind strength in ‘forces’ and describes the effects of each force (eg. Force 3: gentle breeze, 7-10 knots, large wavelets with crests starting to break) Bow - the forward (front) part of a boat Buoy - floating mark used for navigation, mooring, or racing Capsize - when a boat tips over past the point that the righting moment is lost Cardinal mark - a north, south, east, or west buoy or beacon used to indicate the safe side to pass a hazard such as a bank Chart datum - chart datum is an arbitrary level from which heights of tide and charted depths are measured. Height of tide is measured above chart datum; charted depth is measured below chart datum Dry sailing - boats are ‘dry sailed’ when they are kept on shore instead of being left anchored or moored Ebb - a receding / falling tide Flood - an incoming / rising tide Height of tide - the height of the sea surface above chart datum High Water - the period of time when tidal waters have reached their highest mark before receding Knot - a unit of speed equal to one nautical mile per hour (1.0 kt = 1.15 mph) Lateral marks - red or green (or occasionally yellow) buoys or beacons used to indicate the edges of a well defined channel LOA - length overall, often abbreviated to LOA, is the maximum length of a vessel measured parallel to the waterline, including overhanging objects such as bowsprit, anchor, and tender davits Low Water - the period of time when tidal waters have reached their lowest level Nautical mile - 1,852 metres (at the equator) NAVTEX - (Navigational Telex) is an international automated medium frequency direct-printing service for delivery of navigational and meteorological warnings and forecasts, as well as urgent marine safety information to ships Neap tide - period in a month when the tidal range is smallest Port - the left-hand side of a boat when looking forwards PYS - the Portsmouth Yardstick Scheme (PYS) is a handicapping system for racing between different classes, whether dinghies, multihulls, or cruising yachts Sheet - a rope, attached to the movable corner(s) / clew of a sail or to a boom, which can be pulled in or eased to control the angle of a sail to the wind Spring tide - period in a month when the tidal range is greatest Starboard - the right-hand side of a boat when looking forwards Stern - the after (rear) part of a boat Tidal flows / streams - the horizontal movement of water associated with the rising and falling tide Tide - the rise and fall of sea level caused by astronomical factors such as the gravitational forces of the sun and the moon Tide tables - tables showing the predicted times and heights of tide Transit - two objects on the same bearing (ie. they appear to be in line with each other when viewed from a distance)

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Books and Maps The easy way to purchase all of your Isle of Wight maps and guide books online

Ordnance Survey

Calendars

Free postage and packing on all orders

Guides

Isle of Wight Books

www.isleofwightbooks.co.uk COWES.co.uk

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THE SOLENT HARBOUR OFFICE

DRY SAILING CENTRE

RIVER MED INA

B OAT YA R D

N

FOR ALL YOUR MARINE REQUIREMENTS Town Quay, Cowes, PO31 7AS Tel: 01983 293952 chc@cowes.co.uk www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk