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What's the story here?

Port Hamble Marina is a prominent marina on the west bank of the River Hamble, immediately north of the village of Hamble, officially known as Hamble le-Rice. Port Hamble Marina is the river's second marina, located closest to the village. Opened in 1964, it was one of the first modern marinas in the UK, setting a precedent for efficient and convenient boat mooring in crowded harbours. Its establishment marked a significant development in the region's maritime infrastructure, supporting the rapid growth of recreational boating and yachting.




Port Hamble Marina has 310 berths and can accommodate yachts of up to 24 metres in length and a draught of up to 3.6 metres. The River Hamble provides a draft of at least 3 metres above chart datum all the way up to Port Hamble Marina.

Daily Visitor Berthing [2026]
Visitor Rates

• • Up to 12.5m: £5.55 per metre


• • 12.6m – 18m: £7.00 per metre


• • 18.1m – 24m: £7.80 per metre


• • 24.1m +:: £8.50 per metre

Short Stay Berthing (Up to 4 hours)

• • Up to 15m: £13.10


• • 15.1m +: : £19.30

Visitor berths must typically be vacated by noon on the day of departure. If you expect to arrive after 5 p.m., it is good practice to let the marina know. As is standard with MDL visitor structures, shore power is metered and paid for separately at the berth via your digital account or at the marina office.




However, Port Hamble Marina does not have designated visitor berths, and guests are accommodated in vacant berths held by residents. It is therefore recommended to arrange berthing in advance by contacting the marina on Ch. 80/M [Port Hamble Marina], +44 23 8045 2741, porthamble@mdlmarinas.co.uk or the MDL web form .

How to get in?

Guidance, tide timers, and waypoints to Southampton Waters are provided in the Western Approaches to The Solent and the run-up to Southampton or the Eastern Approaches to The Solent and the run-up to Southampton .

Approaches, tide timers, and waypoints for the run-up the river as far as Bursledon Bridge, the effective head of navigation for most sailing craft, are covered in the Navigating the River Hamble . Port Hamble Marina is the second marina on the west bank of the river, immediately above the Royal Air Force Yacht Club.




Berth as directed by the marina office.

Significant caution is needed when berthing in the Hamble River on the ebb. This is particularly true during Springs when the 'river effect', caused by a very rapid initial tidal drop, is intensified by the Solent's double high 'tidal stand', which allows only 3-4 hours for the ebb to complete its cycle. The combination of the 'stand' and 'river effect' results in a disproportionately sudden and intense first ebb flush that is best avoided when coming alongside, or if the skipper chooses to proceed, requires close attention from the helmsman.




Likewise, be alert for strong cross currents when passing between the marina's pontoon heads. These currents will not remain constant as the depth decreases into the marina area, and in some cases, the tidal flow may even decrease. It is helpful to know the berth orientation in advance; if there is a stream, it is easier to approach against the tide. Therefore, having prior knowledge of the berth orientation or requesting a more straightforward berth to approach is advisable.

Why visit here?

Port Hamble Marina derives its name from its strategic location on the River Hamble, nestled beside the village of Hamble-le-Rice. Its designation as "Port Hamble" reflects its role as a port or docking area on the River Hamble, a waterway with a long and rich maritime history.




The name 'Hamble' is believed to stem from the Old English word 'hamm', meaning a river bend or curve, or possibly 'hamel', meaning crooked — both highlighting the winding nature of the River Hamble. The suffix '-le-Rice' remains somewhat of a mystery, with possible origins in Old English 'hrīs' (brushwood or scrubland), or, as some suggest, a Norman French phrase, 'en le rys' (on the hill), indicating the village's elevated position above the river. Over time, the village has been known by various names, including 'Hamelea' (circa 730), 'Hammel' (1496), and 'Ham-en-le-Rice' (1846), before officially becoming Hamble-le-Rice in 1992.




By the early 8th century, Hamble-le-Rice emerged as a notable site for ecclesiastical maritime activity. It served as a departure point for Christian missionaries, most famously St. Willibald, who reportedly set sail from Hamble in 720 AD on a mission to Germany. This early religious importance deepened with the founding of a Benedictine priory in 1109. Established by monks from the Abbey of Tiron in France on land granted by the Bishop of Winchester, the priory is linked to the existing Church of St. Andrew. Though rebuilt mainly in the 15th century, the church still contains traces of Roman tile and Saxon stonework, providing a tangible connection to the village's ancient past. The priory and church underscore Hamble-le-Rice's role as a spiritual and community hub throughout the Middle Ages.




By the 14th century, Hamble's riverside location made it a natural centre for maritime pursuits. The river provided an abundance of oysters, and the village gained renown for its shipbuilding and marine trade. During this period, Hamble contributed ships and sailors to national efforts, including the Battle of Crécy, highlighting its regional significance. The Tudor era saw further development with the construction of St. Andrew's Castle at Hamble Point in 1544, emphasising the village's strategic importance.




Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Hamble-le-Rice continued to thrive as a maritime hub. Shipbuilding, rope-making, and other naval industries flourished, supporting a busy harbour and lively trade. Local street names, such as Rope Walk, serve as reminders of this industrial past. The village also hosted Admiralty courts for settling maritime disputes.




The 20th century brought significant changes to Hamble-le-Rice. Its population increased rapidly from around 300 at the start of the century to over 3,000 by the 1960s, and now stands at approximately 4,000. The burgeoning aviation industry partly fueled this expansion. During both World Wars, Hamble became a centre for aircraft production and pilot training, with local factories manufacturing vital components for the war effort. After the wars, the focus shifted towards leisure and recreation. The natural beauty of the River Hamble and the surrounding countryside made it an ideal location for yachting and water sports. Port Hamble Marina, established in 1964, was among the first of its kind in the UK, designed to cater to the increasing number of boat owners and yachting enthusiasts drawn to the area.




Today, Hamble-le-Rice is recognised as a premier yachting destination, boasting numerous marinas and a lively boating community. The village hosts annual regattas and sailing events, attracting enthusiasts from across the country. It has successfully preserved its unique character while adapting to modern times. From its ancient origins as an Iron Age settlement to its role as a centre for Christian missionaries, shipbuilding, and aviation, the village has always been shaped by its maritime connection. Its charming cobbled streets, historic buildings, and strong maritime heritage create a lovely atmosphere.




Hamble offers a superb selection of pubs and restaurants within easy walking distance. You will find something to suit every palate, from fresh seafood to traditional British fare. The village quay and riverfront provide excellent vantage points for watching boats sail along the river and even spotting larger cruise ships on the Solent. Those wishing to relax can visit Banana Wharf Hamble in the marina, which offers a range of global cuisine with marina views.




For those who enjoy walking, Hamble Common offers a 55-acre expanse of heathland with scenic routes and wildlife opportunities. It remains of Iron Age settlements, as well as the scant traces of a Napoleonic gun battery. Alternatively, you can take a trip on the iconic pink Hamble ferry from the Hamble Public Jetty across the river to Warsash Ferry Hard on the east bank. It's a short, scenic journey, and Warsash itself has further pubs and cafes to explore.




From a boating perspective, this provides a prime berth in the historic village at the centre of the river, celebrated for its maritime heritage, natural beauty, and strong sense of community.

What facilities are available?

The pontoons provide power and water. All domestic requirements up to and including WiFi can be found within the marina area. A launderette is open 24 hours a day. Diesel and unleaded petrol are available at the fuel bay located at the head of pontoon 'B'. Gas cylinders are also available at the Marina Reception. The marina provides general waste disposal and full recycling facilities. Arrangements can be made for the disposal of waste oil.

The marina provides its lifting & boat storage services at MDL's other two sites on the River Hamble, Hamble Point Marina and Mercury Yacht Harbour. There is a large-scale chandlery on-site, along with a wide range of specialist services, including rigging, marine electronics, GRP repairs, cosmetic work, and engineering. A very good restaurant and bar overlooks the marina. A 5-minute walk is Hamble-Le-Rice, which features several restaurants and pubs, plus a useful Co-op where provisions may be bought.

Access to the marina by road from the M3 is via the M27 Eastbound for Portsmouth. Exit at junction 8 of the M27 for Southampton East/Hamble, taking the B3397 to Hamble. The B3397 is the only main access road that serves the Hamble Peninsula. Approximately 3 miles long and running straight through the village, it experiences heavy road traffic, with daily congestion and slow-moving queues.

The village is served by Hamble railway station, which provides services to both Southampton Central and Portsmouth Harbour. These services run once per hour in each direction. From Hamble rail station, a local bus service operates to Hamble village. It is also linked by ferry to Warsash and has bus services from pre-dawn to late night/early morning to and from Southampton and Eastleigh.

River Hamble Harbour Master’s Office
The statutory authority manages the entire river ecosystem. Contact them to arrange mid-river visitor swinging moorings, use the public scrubbing grids (at Warsash), or pick up a berth on the public Warsash or Hamble Jetty pontoons. Their patrol boats monitor the river 24/7.
Address: Shore Road, Warsash, Southampton, SO31 9FR
[VHF] Channel: 68 [Hamble Harbour Radio] | +44 (0)1489 576387 | harbour.office@hants.gov.uk | Harbour Master's Website


Major Marinas & Dedicated Visitor Berthing
Port Hamble Marina (MDL)
VHF Channel: 80 [Port Hamble Marina]| +44 (0)23 8045 2741 | porthamble@mdlmarinas.co.uk | Port Hamble Marina Website .

Hamble Point Marina (MDL)
VHF Channel: 80 [Hamble Point Marina] | +44 (0)23 8045 2464 | hamblepoint@mdlmarinas.co.uk | Hamble Point Marina Website .

Mercury Yacht Harbour (MDL)
Situated slightly further upriver, offering a quieter, deeply sheltered woodland setting with a popular on-site bar and restaurant (The Gaff Rigger).
VHF Channel: 80 [Mercury Marina] | +44 (0)23 8045 5994 | Mercury Yacht Harbour Website .

Swanwick Marina (Premier Marinas)
VHF Channel: 80 [Swanwick Marina] | +44 (0)1489 884081 | swanwick@premiermarinas.com | Swanwick Marina Website .

Universal Marina (Premier Marinas)
VHF Channel: 80 [Universal Marina] | +44 (0)1489 574272 | Universal Marina Website .

Deacons Marina (boatfolk)
Deacons Marina does not actively monitor a dedicated VHF radio channel; instead, it relies entirely on phone and email for visitor arrivals and berthing assignments. +44 (0)23 8040 2253 | deacons@boatfolk.co.uk | Deacons Marina .


Chandleries & Essential Supplies
Force 4 Chandlery (Port Hamble)
One of the most heavily stocked retail chandleries on the South Coast, carrying standard marine parts, tech gear, electronics, safety kit, and foul-weather apparel.
Address: Port Hamble Marina, Satchell Lane, Hamble, SO31 4QD
+44 (0)23 8045 4858 | Force 4 Chandlery Hamble Website

Force 4 Chandlery (Shamrock Quay)
Located within the historic Shamrock Quay marina complex, this branch features a well-stocked retail footprint specialising in everyday marine electronics, safety gear, technical clothing, and general maintenance supplies.
Address: Shamrock Quay, William Street, Southampton, SO14 5QL
+44 (0)23 8063 2725 | Force 4 Chandlery .

Bainbridge Marine (Warsash)
While primarily a major commercial distributor, their trade counter and local presence in Warsash make them useful for sourcing specific marine hardware, sailcloth materials, and technical yacht rigging equipment.
Address: Unit 8, Flanders Park, Flanders Road, Hedge End, Southampton, SO30 2FZ (Distribution & Trade)
+44 (0)1489 776000 | Bainbridge Marine Website

YouBoat Marine Chandlery (Swanwick)
A fantastic, heavily stocked independent chandlery located just off the river near Swanwick/Bursledon. They carry everything from anti-fouling and zinc anodes to foul-weather gear, safety equipment, and engine spares.
Address: Unit 2, Bridge Road, Swanwick, Southampton, SO31 7ED
+44 (0)1489 588355 | YouBoat Marine Website

Sea-Teach (Emsworth / Online Support)
Slightly eastward from the immediate Hamble banks, they remain a legendary local mail-order and technical-supply name for Solent boaters seeking specialised safety equipment, life rafts, and custom boat spares.
+44 (0)1243 375774 | Sea-Teach Website

Aspire Sailmakers & Canvas (Universal Marina)
While primarily sailmakers, they operate a small commercial loft shop on-site at Universal Marina, stocking essential canvas hardware, zippers, sail tape, ropes, and rigging accessories for emergency shoreside repairs.
Address: Universal Marina, Crableck Lane, Sarisbury Green, Southampton, SO31 7ZN
+44 (0)1489 572400 | Aspire Sailmakers & Canvas Website

The Chandlery Barge (Bursledon)
A highly unique, independent chandlery built directly inside a floating barge at Riverside Boatyard. Famous for stocking traditional boat hardware, everyday maintenance essentials, rope, and odd-sized plumbing fixtures.
Address: Riverside Boatyard, Blundell Lane, Bursledon, SO31 1AA
+44 (0)23 8040 6349 | The Chandlery Barge Website

Heavy Engineering, Repairs & Rigging
R.K. Marine (Swanwick & Warsash)
The primary destination on the river for mechanical issues. They operate out of both Swanwick and Stone Pier (Warsash).
Address: Hamble River Boatyard, Bridge Road, Swanwick, SO31 7EB
+44 (0)1489 583572 | Parts Shop Phone: +44 (0)1489 583585 | R.K. Marine Website


Hamble Yacht Services (HYS)
A world-famous, heavy-duty boatyard site capable of massive refits, repairs, laminating, high-end race preparation, and mast/rigging projects. They feature an 80-tonne travel hoist for handling superyachts and large racing craft.
Address: Port Hamble, Satchell Lane, Hamble, SO31 4NN +44 (0)23 8020 1501 | info@hysgroup.co.uk | Hamble Yacht Services Website

Desty Marine (Hamble Point)
Specialising in structural or cosmetic damage to hulls, Desty Marine operates a massive 10,000 sq ft state-of-the-art workshop at Hamble Point.
+44 (0)23 8045 7776 | info@destymarine.com | Desty Marine Website


Local Logistics & Water Taxi
Hamble River Water Taxi (The Pink Ferry) Crucial if you are sitting on a mid-stream swinging mooring or want to transfer between Hamble village and Warsash on opposite banks.
VHF Channel: 77 [Hamble Taxi] (though local boaters will also frequently hail them as "Pink Ferry") | +44 (0)7720 438057 | Hamble River Water Taxi Website .

Any security concerns?

The marina is a secure access area with CCTV throughout.

With thanks to:

Michael Harpur S/Y Whistler.