Deacons Marina is a tranquil riverside gem just waiting to be explored.
The marina is situated on the west bank of the River Hamble on the outskirts of Southampton. Its sunny and sheltered location provides a tranquil spot for everyone, from dog walkers and paddleboarders to boaters heading out into the Solent. Being close to Southampton means there is plenty to do nearby, as well as being a quieter escape away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
FACILITIES & BERTHING
No matter the size of your boat or the services you require, Deacons has the capability and warm staff with a range of expertise to assist.
The marina is dredged to 2m and berths can house boats up to 14m long. There are extensive lifting facilities in the yard for sailing and motorboats up to 14m or 15 tonnes, including lifting, relaunching, scrubbing, block off and storage.
Deacons is home to boatcare, boatfolk’s repair and maintenance service, which operates across five sites nationwide and growing. The undercover boatsheds and rigging shop act as a one-stop shop for all repair and maintenance tasks, from showers to keels and rigging to thrusters.
The Force 4 chandlery has a wide range of marine stock, including electronics for your boat and the latest sailing clothing. The staff are passionate boaters, immensely friendly and are always on hand in-store or on the phone to offer help or to chat about all things boating.
For anyone in the market for a new boat, Deacons is also the headquarters for boatpoint, boatfolk’s boat brokerage arm, as well as being the main dealer centre for Yamaha, Elan Yachts and Quarken UK. The team at the brand new boatpoint office are knowledgeable and focused on finding their customers the perfect match.
In addition, Mendez Marine are based in Deacons for both out on the water and classroom RYA courses, running throughout the year.
Lastly, the excellent facilities for boaters at Deacons include spotless washrooms and a recently renovated bistro offering local dishes.
ACCESS
If arriving by car, use the postcode SO31 8AZ. Exit the M27 at junction 9 or 8 and then follow the A27 down to Deacons Marina. The entrance is marked by red and green navigation buoys. The Force 4 chandlery is directly on your left with the main car park straight ahead, where you will find the marina office.
Bursledon is the nearest train station, just a five-minute walk from the marina, with regular services from London (around two-and-a-half hours). If walking from the station, turn right out of the car park and walk toward the A27. Turn right under the railway bridge and right again to find the marina.
For watercraft approaching the marina, take special care as the Hamble can get very busy with larger vessels. VHF Channel 68 ‘Hamble Harbour Radio’ will be helpful in choosing a good time to cross into the marina. Arrival and departure should be made at slack water, as the tidal river currents can run at 3 knots.
CRUISING
Deacons is uniquely situated in that it provides a great launching point for both heading upstream for quieter day voyages as well as out into the Solent. The upper reaches of the Hamble have calm waters, providing perfect picnic spots and swimming opportunities for those brave enough to embrace the cool waters. Let the ebb tide carry you back to the marina while enjoying the gorgeous sunsets and natural views.
Cruising south, the Hamble empties into the mouth of Southampton Water. As you flow into the Solent, you are immediately greeted by a number of brilliant options for shorter and longer cruises. It is hard to miss the Isle of Wight dead ahead, a favourite spot for boaters from around the world. See the famous Needles rocks, stop off for some seaside shopping and see where the Cowes Week regatta takes place.
Alternatively, head east for a short cruise to the bustling city of Portsmouth. Explore the city’s rich naval heritage, the 24 miles of scenic waterfront or pop into town for a spot of metropolitan shopping.
boatfolk has sister marinas in the vicinity, East Cowes and Haslar Marina, which provide great stopover points for a lunch break or even an overnight stay for those looking to make the most of their visit.
For those looking for a longer, quieter cruise, Lymington is a sheltered haven to the west. Tucked into the New Forest, Lymington is one of Dorset’s jewels, with scenic country walks that end at classic British pubs; the perfect end to any day spent in and around the Solent.
THINGS TO DO
Whilst outside the main city boundaries of Southampton, there is still plenty to do within walking distance of Deacons Marina.
For on-the-water fun, the Bursledon Regatta is practically a water carnival. Hosted by Deacons Marina’s neighbours, Elephant Boatyard, it takes place in early September and has everything from dinghy racing to a themed carnival float display. A public BBQ followed by fireworks is a brilliant way to spend a day by the water.
There is a Tesco Extra just a 20-minute walk away. The Jolly Sailor, the Navigator and the Old Ship are pubs all within a five-minute walk. Follow the river path on the east bank to get to Warsash and the Rising Sun pub.
The Bursledon Windmill is Hampshire’s only working windmill. Dive into local history, dating back to 1814, and it is clear to see why it has become on iconic heritage attraction. Guided tours leave every half an hour at the weekends.
There are a number of local taxi companies that can take you into Southampton for those looking for a taste of the city. Like many of the coastal cities on the Solent, the port’s history has been rich and evolved greatly through the centuries. A visit to the Seacity Museum lets you explore stories that date back 200,000 years.
MORE INFORMATION
Deacons Marina
Marina Manager: Ben Lippiett
Tel: 02380 402 253
Email: deacons@boatfolk.co.uk
Bridge Road, Bursledon, Southampton
Hampshire SO31 8AZ
(entrance marked by a green and a red buoy)
