Sailing in Gosport

Clubs, marinas, and getting on the water

Gosport's position on Portsmouth Harbour and the Solent makes it a natural sailing location, and the borough has a strong maritime tradition that extends well beyond the Royal Navy.

Stokes Bay Sailing Club operates from the bay, providing dinghy sailing, racing, and training for members. The club runs a programme of racing throughout the season, with weekend series and midweek evening races during the summer. The sheltered waters of Stokes Bay provide good conditions for dinghy sailing, and the club welcomes newcomers alongside experienced racers. RYA-accredited training courses are available for adults and juniors.

Hardway Sailing Club, on the harbour shore, provides dinghy racing and social facilities in a more intimate, harbour-oriented setting. The club's position on Portsmouth Harbour gives access to the harbour waters, which are more sheltered than the open Solent but carry the additional consideration of harbour traffic including ferries, naval vessels, and commercial shipping.

Haslar Marina is the borough's main marina facility, providing berths for cruising yachts and motor boats. The marina sits on Haslar Creek, close to the harbour entrance, and offers a convenient base for sailors heading out into the Solent or further afield. Facilities include fuelling, pump-out, and shore-side services. The marina is also a base for charter companies and sailing schools offering day sailing and longer courses.

The Solent is one of the busiest and most varied sailing waters in the world, and Gosport sits at a prime position on its shores. The annual Round the Island Race passes directly in front of Stokes Bay, and the various Solent regattas and races provide a constant spectacle throughout the summer.

For those new to sailing, the clubs and schools in Gosport provide a good introduction. The sheltered harbour and the nearby open water of the Solent offer a natural progression from beginner to experienced sailor. The combination of harbour sailing, Solent racing, and cruising makes Gosport a versatile base for all types of sailing.