Blog

The clocks have now gone back and the days are getting increasingly shorter, the Solent may be quieter than the buzz of the summer, but what a summer we’ve had! Let’s have a look back at the action-packed season that kept us busy. A summer to remember The highlight of the season was Cowes Week,Continue reading "Summer fun to Autumn & Winter calmer vibes"

This month, we’re saying goodbye (for now) to one of our own. Harlee Hackney is heading to Australia for a year of travel, and everyone here wishes him the very best of luck. Harlee has been part of the team; since his work experience as a whipper snapper and has grown into a valued memberContinue reading "Fair Winds, Harlee: Off to Australia"

Earlier this year, Solent Rib Charter received The King’s Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category. On Tuesday 8th September, we marked the occasion properly, with the official presentation ceremony at SRC HQ in Lymington. The award was presented by the Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson, the King’s representative in the county, accompanied by DeputyContinue reading "SRC Presented with The King’s Award for Enterprise"

September can be one the best months to explore the waters of the Western Solent. As the summer crowds start to thin out, the Solent transforms into a boaters paradise. Whilst the weather might be cooler the waters are quieter, and the sunsets take your breath away. The event calendar is also packed with aContinue reading "Sea, Swine, and Superyachts: The Ultimate Guide to September on the Solent"

The Solent is known for major regattas, such as Cowes week as well as fun high speed blasts; however, there are more attractions these beautiful waters have to offer; from tranquil rivers, local wildlife and secluded coves. A quiet nature spot Anchor at Newtown Creek, a protected National Trust reserve on the north coast ofContinue reading "Secret Solent: Exploring Hidden Anchorages & Wildlife Spots by Boat"

Anyone who has joined us for a Rib charter from Lymington has probably passed Baverstock, the distinctive boat moored near the mouth of the river. Sitting just before the Lymington River opens into the Western Solent, she is one of those familiar local sights that is easy to pass without knowing the story behind it.Continue reading "Baverstock: The Boat at the End of Lymington River"

The Solent is renowned for being one of the best boating destinations in the UK. Sheltered waters, stunning coastline and easy access to the Isle of Wight with plenty of waterside stops along the way – it’s easy to see why bareboat Rib hire is such a popular choice! However, as anyone who knows theContinue reading "Hazards in the Solent: What to Know Before Your Bareboat Rib Charter"

We are delighted to announce that Solent Rib Charter, parent company to Commercial Rib Charter, has been awarded a King’s Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category – one of the most prestigious recognitions for UK businesses. This achievement celebrates the pioneering design, launch and operation of ‘CRC Walrus’, our 13m amphibious crew transfer vessel.Continue reading "A Royal Recognition for Innovation"

Few places on the Solent feel quite as untouched as Newtown Creek – but beneath its tranquil façade lies one of the island’s most fascinating stories. Today, Newtown Creek is best known as a peaceful anchorage, sheltered from the hustle and bustle and rich in wildlife – not least the resident seals that call theContinue reading "The Hidden History of Newtown Creek, Isle of Wight."

As a wise man in our office once said… ‘The water is our element’, well, at least anything to do with Ribs that is! However Rib charters aren’t the only thing we have to offer, SRC is part of a larger group of companies that run commercial based work through to land based corporate events.Continue reading "Not just a one trick pony…"

Southampton is one of the UK’s most vibrant port cities, offering a well balanced mix of maritime history, modern attractions and easy access to the stunning Solent coast. Whether you are visiting Southampton from a cruise, a weekend away or simply a local looking for new adventures in the area, there is no shortage ofContinue reading "Things to do in Southampton"

Did you know that we use thermal imaging cameras at the marina? Thermal imaging cameras are an advanced form of CCTV that not only keep watch over our fleet around the clock, but can also visualise heat rather than relying on visible light alone. This means they can “see” in complete darkness, fog, or smokeContinue reading "Thermal Imaging Cameras"

Portsmouth is a fantastic location to start your day out on the Solent coast, and our Portsmouth Rib hire / charter offering makes it easier than ever to get out on the water. Whether it’s a corporate outing, a special celebration or a day out with the family, Solent Rib Charter has you covered. WhyContinue reading "Portsmouth Rib Hire & Charter Services"

The wait is nearly over! The Southampton International Boat Show returns to Mayflower Park from the 19th to 28th September 2025, bringing with it ten days of world-class boats, equipment and all things nautical. From beautiful motor yachts to paddleboards and the latest marine gadgets, there’s something to capture the attention of every water lover.Continue reading "Southampton Boat Show 2025"

Cowes Week 2025 is almost here, running from Saturday 2nd until Saturday 9th of August, and Solent Rib Charter is getting geared up for what is guaranteed to be a busy and exciting week. As with previous years, Solent Rib Charter is proud to once again be the official Rib supplier for the spectacular CowesContinue reading "Cowes Week 2025 with Solent Rib Charter"

The New Forest, though a special place all year round, becomes even more so during the Summer – think wild ponies roaming free, sun dappled woodlands and coastal breezes on golden sand. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here are 10 must do experiences to make the most of Summer in The New Forest.Continue reading "Top 10 Things to Do in the New Forest 2025"

Spring has already delivered more sunshine than the whole of 2024 combined. With the sun hopefully here to stay and you’re dreaming of sea breezes and sun-soaked coastlines, this summer is the perfect time to hire a bareboat and explore the Solent. Whether you’re a seasoned skipper or simply love the idea of complete freedomContinue reading "Why should you Bareboat This Summer"

Are you looking to charter a Rib and get out on the water this Summer? Well, you’re in the right place! Solent Rib Charter is the UK’s leading provider of Rib charter and Rib hire services, and we pride ourselves in being able to accommodate the most unique of requests. Whether you’re looking for bareboatContinue reading "Rib Charter and Hire on the Solent Coast"

For centuries, the Solent coast has sported a rich maritime history and played a pivotal role in the UK’s coastal economy. The Coastal Powerhouse Summit is a landmark event that brings together industry leaders, academics, policy makers and startups to accelerate innovation and decarbonisation across the coastal and maritime economy. On March 26-27 of thisContinue reading "Coastal Powerhouse Summit 2025"

You’re out on the water, sun beaming down and salty fresh air in your hair when hunger strikes… fortunately, the Solent coast is brimming with waterside venues where you can moor alongside for some fantastic food and drink. Venturing by Rib not only offers quick access to these gems, but it adds a scenic arrivalContinue reading "Dining hot spots across the Solent"

From all of us at Solent Rib Charter, we would like to wish you a very Happy New Year! As we welcome 2025, we’re excited to dive into another year packed with events on the Solent. Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast, a corporate team planning an away day, or a family looking to make memories,Continue reading "Solent Boating Calendar 2025 with SRC"

Looking for an unforgettable day on the water in the UK? At Solent Rib Charter, we offer the highest quality of Rib charter services that are tailored to your needs. Whether you’re exploring the hidden gems of the Isle of Wight, planning a team building away day with our corporate Rib charters, or perhaps seekingContinue reading "For all your charter needs"

Looking for the ultimate bareboat Rib charter experience in the UK? A skippered Rib charter for a family day out? Or perhaps you’re a business seeking a unique and engaging corporate Rib charter that brings the whole team together? Whether you’re exploring for pleasure or planning an exciting corporate day out, Solent Rib Charter hasContinue reading "Solent Rib Charter – Premier Bareboat, Private & Corporate Rib Charters in the UK"

The Solent Coast, a treasure trove of maritime history, is the final resting place for many shipwrecks. Among them lies the SS Varvassi – a Greek cargo steamship built in 1946, just a year before her ill-fated journey. On January 5th, 1947, while carrying a precious cargo of tangerines, wine, and oil from Algiers toContinue reading "SS Varvassi Shipwreck – A Deep Dive into the Solent’s Rich History"