As a port city, Southampton’s culture and heritage is rooted not in the ground, but out at sea. From the glamorous cruise ships that depart daily for exotic destinations, to the Isle of Wight ferry boats that criss cross the Solent, to the yachts that can always be seen dotted around the seascape, this is a city with the sea at its beating heart. So whatever your reason for visiting Southampton, you’ll never truly experience this salty city until you abandon its streets to experience your very own high seas adventure.
Sailing Away in Southampton
Whether you want to gain your sailing certificate or enjoy Isle of Wight trips, no visit to Southampton is complete without some time spent on the water.
Cruise Holidays
Cruises from Southampton to destinations all over the world may be an almost daily occurrence in this city, but their frequency doesn’t detract from the glamour of embarking a behemoth of a cruise ship to set sail for an adventure on the high seas. Whether you’re making the transatlantic crossing to America or prefer to stick to shorter European sailings, a cruise guarantees you’ll enjoy the journey in comfort and style. Before starting one of these holidays of a lifetime, don’t forget to wave goodbye to all the bystanders who wait to watch the ships slip away from port.
Isle of Wight
Sailings from Southampton to the seaside attractions of the Isle of Wight are regular and quick on ferry services such as the one operated by Red Funnel. You and your car can be in East Cowes in under an hour and, if you’re travelling on foot, it’s even easier, with East Cowes just a 25 minute sailing away. The journey is part of the fun, and not only is it quick, it’s totally hassle-free with no need to show a passport. Once you’re over the Solent, you can enjoy the Isle of Wight’s award-winning beaches or visit attractions like the Isle of Wight Zoo, the stunning Osborne House or even the Jimi Hendrix statue.
Captain your own Ship
If learning to sail has long been on your bucket list, there’s no better place to make your dream of learning to sail a reality than Southampton. There are numerous Royal Yacht Association accredited courses available, many of which, like the five-day programme from Broadreach Sailing, are designed with the complete beginner in mind. The Hamble School of Yachting is another long-established and popular yachting school with a weekend programme that you’ll leave being able to steer a yacht, handle ropes, sail a basic course and be aware of the health and safety essentials you need to know.
Day and Night Tripping
If just a taste of life on the high seas is all you are looking for, a day trip, such as the ones run by Blue Funnel, is just the ticket. Relax on the sundeck as your ship sets sail on itineraries such as a Southampton harbour tour, a Hamble River cruise, a trip out on the Solent or an excursion to Portsmouth. Or for a night out with a difference, you can embark on evening party cruises with 60s, 70s, 80s, Caribbean and Christmas cruises being big hits with pleasure seekers. However, you don’t actually have to raise the anchor to enjoy an evening on the Solent - the popular Princess Caroline party boat stays firmly moored in Ocean Village.
High Speed Adventures
If a relaxing jaunt on a yacht or a day trip on a ferry doesn’t appeal, you can take the excitement levels up a notch with a high speed adventure on the water. Companies like Seadogz run extreme experiences on the Solent which are definitely not for the faint hearted or those who don’t like being splashed or indeed soaked! With a variety of experiences available for thrill seekers aged eight and over, some of which include fun treasure hunts, there’s a high speed alternative to sailing for everyone.