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3 Rules for Safely Sharing the Solent this Summer
14/07/2026
The Solent is one of the best places in the UK, to boat all year round. However, during the congested Summer months, the Solent can become fraught with a variety of hazards and dangers, both natural and man made.
The Solent is a complicated area to navigate. This is mainly due to the various commercial craft, container ships, ferries (transport and passenger) and fast craft such as the Red Jet, which can be travelling in excess of 40 knots, even in Southampton water. And then there are the rest of us, trying to get from A to B, via C, D & E. Hoping that the other leisure boaters around us know what they are doing, in order that we can follow their lead (a dangerous and sometimes costly mistake to make).
All of this before you add the effects and challenges of the sometimes unpredictable tides & winds. Now our environment can sometimes seem a very daunting and nerve wracking prospect.
Here are 3 Basic Rules that should keep you safe:
1. Mind the "Moving Prohibited Zone" (MPZ): Due to the continuous commercial operations in and around the Solent, there are strict rules around commercial ships (over 150m) in the Thorn Channel. All vessels over this size must be given a specific clearance. This information can be found on the chart relevant to this area.
2. Understand Your ColRegs (Collision Regulations): Remember "Power gives way to Sail" isn't a blank check. Commercial and larger vessels require additional room to manoeuvre and don't assume they can even see you. Racing yachts have limited manoeuvrability, and leisure RIBs must stay well clear of racing fleets.
3. Radio Discipline is Critical: Keep VHF Channel 16 clear. Channel 67 is the small craft safety channel and should be utilised when transmission on Channel 16 is not necessary. Identify and use local Marina channels (like Channel 80 for Marinas) and to keep communications brief.
Crucial Safety Note: A crowded Solent is not the place to "figure it out as you go."
Ensure you have a plan (remember Col Regs requires you to do so). Study your charts, pilotage plans and ensure you research the area fully.
Where many inexperienced boaters or those not familiar with the area might be drawn to the main channels, there is generally plenty of safe water outside of these.
Finally Remember: Ensure your Kill Cord is firmly and correctly attached to you, the moment your powerboat engine starts!!
Enjoy the Summer, but Don't take chances...
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