What we do
Gentle cruising or exhilaration
The Rib charter market grows each year as more and more people experience the thrill and the pleasure of Ribs as well as appreciating just how much of our beautiful coastline and how many historic ports and landmarks may be enjoyed in a day.
At a glance
The Solent is Europe’s busiest waterway, providing endless entertainment for every taste from the tranquillity of National Trust owned Newton Creek to the thriving world centre of yachting in Cowes.
Thrilling design
It is useful to set this wider context because for many the real draw is just the Rib itself. It is almost impossible to have more fun! Renowned as ‘go anywhere’ sea boats, Ribs have been used by the RNLI for decades because of their excellent inherent safety and impressive handling characteristics even in extreme conditions.
Sights and destinations
On any given day, you might see racing, warships, liners, oil tankers or tall ships on the water. You will also enjoy landmarks like the Needles, historic forts all around the Solent, beautiful ports like Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight as well as major sights such as the naval dockyards in Portsmouth.
Safety first
We have an outstanding safety record and will always be respectful of the prevailing conditions but we have not forgotten that our clients are partial to some fun! For more information about safety, please follow the link. Ribs are not suitable for those who are not in robust good health. Alcohol and fast open boats do not mix well!
Rib charter gallery
FAQs
Rib charter questions, answered.
Quick answers on safety, pick-up points and what a day looks like.
A Rib charter is the private hire of a rigid inflatable boat for a set time, usually with a professional skipper. Ribs are fast and stable, so you can visit several ports and landmarks around the Solent in one trip.
Yes. Ribs are renowned as ‘go anywhere’ sea boats, and the RNLI has used them for decades because of their safety and handling, even in extreme conditions. Solent Rib Charter has an outstanding safety record and always plans around the conditions on the day.
Our home port is Lymington Yacht Haven. Charters can also start from Southampton, Portsmouth, Cowes, Yarmouth, Beaulieu, Hamble and Gosport, and we operate elsewhere in the UK on request.
Popular sights include The Needles and Alum Bay, Hurst Castle, Yarmouth, Cowes, the Beaulieu River, Portsmouth’s naval dockyard and the Spinnaker Tower. A full day can combine several of these with a lunch stop.
You can book skippered charters, bareboat hire for qualified drivers, corporate days, stag and hen trips, Rib treasure hunts and support boats for sailing events. We also run transfers to The Hut at Colwell Bay.
The Solent and beyond
The Solent may be our home, but we operate throughout the UK, offering reliable nationwide support with consistently excellent service.
What our customers say
These guys were brilliant. Would highly recommend them.
Skipper Jon on the day was great & always showed on time.
I would strongly recommend Solent Rib Charter.
I'd absolutely 100% recommend these guys.
Incredible company who at last minute were able to step in like heroes.
Really nice people, with great kit and knowledge.
Another wildly successful client RIB day with the wonderful Solent RIB Charter.
From start to finish the process was seamless.
The most professional Rib charter company you will ever come across!
Let's talk
Talk to our experts