Protected sectors

What's the story here?

Ryde Roads is a sheltered area situated off the northeast corner of the Isle of Wight, adjacent to the main naval anchorage at Spithead. It lies close west of the prominent Ryde Pier, which extends 800 metres north of the town and immediately south of the Solent's principal fairway between Ryde and Gilkicker Point.




This area offers an easy access drop-in anchorage for a tide with an overnight stay that is naturally protected by its location. The only problem is the wakes from the commercial traffic plying their trade in this busy waterway.

How to get in?

Western approaches may utilise the Western Approaches to The Solent and the run-up to Southampton for entry via The Needles, the Western Solent, including its eastern shorelines to the north and south, continuing to connect Cowes and the River Medina. The guide for Cowes and the River Medina offers a tide timer and sailing directions for exiting all berths along the River Medina.

The Eastern Approaches to The Solent and the run-up to Southampton Water guides the approaches to the Eastern Solent, the eastern side of the Isle of Wight, and the northeastern coastline, through to Cowes and the River Medina.




Come directly south from the initial fix where a small unlit port buoy is moored close inside the drying extremity of the shore will be seen on approach.




Anchor over excellent mud and sand holding about 300 metres out from the port mark. The shore immediately south of the anchorage has rocky ledges that look a challenge to land upon.




Better landings can be found inshore of Ride West Sands to the east of the pier, just under a mile by tender from the anchorage. On Spring tides, the beach is covered, so draw the dinghy up and secure it. Otherwise, at high water, the beach is steep too, but at half tide and low water, there are many rocks that must be avoided on approach.




The easiest way to approach is from the position of a new and very attractive beach chalet set above the beach, where the footing is reasonably clear.

Why visit here?

This is a lovely, quiet anchorage in southerly conditions save for the sudden appearance of wash. Although it involves a lengthy dinghy run, it is very much removed from the busy town of Ryde and overlooks a charming forested shoreline dotted with pretty townhouses. This allows you to enjoy the advantages of the town while keeping its bustling seafront somewhat at arm's length.




Ryde Roads offers an opportunity to anchor off the grand old Victorian seaside resort that became known as the 'Gateway to the Isle of Wight' - Ryde Harbour covers the area's interests.

As Ryde dries entirely, Ryde Roads provides an opportunity for boaters whose vessels need to remain afloat and who wish to visit the area.

What facilities are available?

There are no facilities in Ryde Roads's secluded anchorage. However, a 45-minute sail to Cowes, Portsmouth, or the River Hamble provides almost any conceivable marine service or facility a vessel could require.

Any security concerns?

Never an issue known to have occurred to a vessel anchored off West Ryde.

With thanks to:

Michael Harpur, S/Y Whistler, Southampton, UK.