Langstone is the Cinderella of the three large harbours at the eastern end of the Solent, but although Prince Charming may not be seen very often around these parts there is still plenty of fun to be had. A variety of moorings and anchorages offer attractive views of the wooded shores and distant hills and there is a good marina accessible in the upper half of the tide.

Newcomers will do best to make first for the south cardinal Winner buoy and then head in from a few cables west to the red and white Langstone Fairway beacon. From there the entrance is obvious on a bearing of about 352º, to the right of the prominent chimney. Most yachts will be able to get in and out at all states of the tide.

Visitors moorings are available on both sides of the entrance, those on the west run by the Eastney Cruising Association (T 01705 734103) and those on the east by the Harbour Board (Ch12 or T 01705 463419). Anchoring is only allowed by permission of the harbourmaster, the usual spot for deep draft vessels being on the north side of the Langstone Channel to the north-west of the entrance.

For access to Southsea marina, which is tucked away inside the harbour to the west of the entrance, find the Eastney pontoon which is connected to the shore by a gantry and then enter the channel just beyond it to port. This is marked by red and green perches and takes you by a circuitous route to the marina entrance.

The marina sill folds down automatically when there is 1.6m of water above it and at that point the light changes from red to green and vessels may go in and out. If your draft is more than 1.5m check the tide gauge at the entrance.

Access is possible from approximately HW-3 to HW+3 but allow plenty of leeway as the exact timing can be affected by atmospheric pressure or other factors. If you need to wait for the sill to open there is a waiting pontoon outside. Travelling in the other direction, if you can get out of the marina there will be sufficient depth to get out of the channel. Craft leaving the marina have priority over those coming in the narrow entrance.

Once inside there are all the usual facilities including good showers and an excellent Indian restaurant, the Bombay Bay, with veranda overlooking the marina. Book at weekends (T 02392 816066). As of mid-2009 a steak and seafood restaurant was also due to open. Provisions nearby.

© 2009 Yachtpilot