Go Jurassic for the weekend
Having previously planned weekends in the Solent based around neaps (ST October 2021) and springs (ST May 2022), and midway between springs and neaps (ST July 2022), this article is based on a trip roughly mid-way between neaps and springs. I am assuming a prevailing SW wind of F4-F5.
The idea is that someone with a berth up the River Hamble arrives at their boat on Friday afternoon, and needs to be back there by Sunday afternoon. With relatively minor variations it should also work for those with berths anywhere within the Solent area.
About time
The timings of high and low water at springs and neaps are always the same within about an hour, and change predictably each day between springs and neaps – so what follows should work for dates midway between neaps and springs, or a few days either side.
As the first half of the passage involves heading west, a bit of tacking will be required, but at least there is the prospect of a downwind return trip to balance the books.
This particular weekend will clock up close to 100nm, so I would not suggest it for a novice crew or if the weather is unkind – but for those with an adventurous disposition who are looking for a temporary escape from the Solent,
