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What's the story here?

Swanwick Marina is situated on the upper reaches of the winding Hamble River, over two miles above its entrance, on the east bank adjacent to the Bursledon Bridge. Managed by Premier Marinas, it is the fourth large-scale marina along the Hamble River, and together with the other two marinas here in this final section below Bursledon Bridge, these represent the last berthing opportunities for most boats, as the bridges' air draught of 4 metres (MHWS) effectively marks the limit for navigation for most sailing vessels.




Swanwick Marina has nearly 400 berths for boats, including a mix of fully serviced pontoons, pile moorings, and an 80-berth dry stack for boats up to 11 metres. It can accommodate yachts of up to 30 metres in length and a draught of up to 2.5 metres. The River Hamble provides a draft of no less than 2 metres chart datum up to Swanwick Marina.

Premier Marinas transitioned Swanwick Marina away from feet measurements entirely, simplifying it to a unified per-metre rate for the 2026 season.

Daily Visitor Berthing [2026]
Visitor Rates High Season
(Valid from April 1st to October 31st, 2026)

• • Up to 24.0m LOA: £5.25 per metre


• • 24.1m+: Price on Application (POA)

Visitor Rates Low Season
(Valid from November 1st, 2025 through to March 31st, 2026)

• • Up to 24.0m LOA: £3.50 per metre


• • 24.1m+: Price on Application (POA)

Short Stay Berthing (Up to 4 hours)

• • Up to 24.0m LOA: £1.80 per metre


• • • 24.1m+: Price on Application (POA)

Premier Marinas has introduced a strict 8-metre minimum billing length for overnight stays across the network. If your vessel is smaller than 8 metres (approximately 26 feet), you will still be invoiced for a baseline 8-metre length (£42.00 per night in high season). 16-amp shore power is included in the visitor berthing fee. Visitor berths must be vacated by noon on your day of departure.




Visitor berthing at Swanwick Marina is available year-round, but the marina does not have designated visitor berths; instead, 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 [Swanwick Marina], +44 1489 884 081, swanwick@premiermarinas.com.

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 .




Berth as directed by the marina office. Pontoon letters, A to G, ascend in order as you travel upstream, berth numbers ascend as you move out from the main walkway along each pontoon, odd numbers on the downriver side, even on the upriver side, while the fuel dock is on the last pontoon.




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?

The name Swanwick reflects its origins. It comes from the Old English "swāna" (the genitive plural of "swān," meaning "herdsman" or "peasant") and "wīc" (a "specialised farm" or "dairy farm"). This essentially means "the farm or settlement of the herdsmen," a descriptive name used in several English locations, including parts of Derbyshire and Cheshire. This etymology aligns well with Swanwick's early development.




While archaeological findings suggest an earlier human presence, Swanwick's documented history truly flourished during the medieval period, deeply rooted in its agricultural and monastic heritage. Initially, it was probably a small farming community, its fertile lands providing sustenance. However, its strategic location on the navigable River Hamble – a natural harbour leading to Southampton Water and the Solent – quickly boosted its importance beyond simple agriculture. The river became a crucial route for trade and communication, and Swanwick prospered as a result of this connectivity. A pivotal moment in Swanwick's history arrived with the 13th-century establishment of Netley Abbey. This Cistercian monastery, situated just a few miles downstream, held significant land and influence, including portions of Swanwick. The monks extensively used the Hamble for transporting goods and materials, with Swanwick's river frontage serving as a convenient landing point. The dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII in the 16th century undoubtedly reshaped land ownership and the local economy, shifting power from monastic orders to private hands.




Over the following centuries, Swanwick gradually evolved. While retaining its rural character, it strengthened its maritime connections. Small-scale shipbuilding and repair probably arose to support local fishing fleets and commercial vessels on the Hamble. The sheltered waters provided a safe harbour, and the area's natural beauty increasingly attracted visitors.




The 19th and 20th centuries brought a more dramatic transformation. The growing popularity of leisure boating and yachting in the Solent area firmly established Swanwick's reputation as a waterside destination. Marinas and boatyards multiplied, replacing older agricultural landscapes. What was once a humble landing point has become a busy hub for marine activities, a far cry from its farming origins, yet still deeply connected to the river that has shaped its future.




Today, Swanwick is a moderately sized village that functions as both a residential area and a lively hub for boating and maritime activities. Its history is clearly reflected in charming older buildings alongside modern marina facilities, highlighting its ongoing connection with the River Hamble. The village features a range of traditional pubs and eateries along the river. The Grade II-listed Old Ship, a 16th-century inn in Lower Swanwick, is a cherished spot for classic fare. For a riverside meal, The Jolly Sailor across the river in Bursledon offers panoramic water views, while the Boat House Café at the marina is ideal for a relaxed breakfast overlooking passing yachts.




Beyond the marinas, Swanwick offers an oasis for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. A riverside public footpath runs along the marina, leading to miles of scenic river and coastal walks. These well-maintained paths wind through woodlands and alongside the water, offering peaceful vantage points for spotting wildlife and taking photographs. A notable natural feature is the Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve. Created from old clay pits, this 35-hectare (86-acre) reserve now serves as a sanctuary for local flora and fauna. Managed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, it features calm lakes and is crisscrossed by woodland paths, ideal for quiet strolls and family picnics. A short walk over Bursledon Bridge leads to the quaint village of Bursledon and the historic Bursledon Brickworks—the last remaining Victorian steam-powered brickworks in England, now a fascinating museum.




From a boating perspective, Swanwick Marina maintains its highly strategic river connection today, as it has for centuries. It offers complete protection with easy access to Southampton Water and the excellent sailing grounds of the Solent and Isle of Wight. If a boat requires maintenance, the marina is a comprehensive marine service centre, hosting a wide network of specialised repair services capable of handling anything nautical. Immediately outside the modest-sized village of Swanwick, with Bursledon and Fareham beyond, will usually be available to meet any requirement.

What facilities are available?

The pontoons supply power and water. All domestic needs, including WiFi, are available within the marina area. A launderette is open 24 hours. Gas cylinders can be obtained from the local chandler. The marina provides general waste disposal and comprehensive recycling facilities. Arrangements can be made for the disposal of waste oil. Diesel and unleaded petrol are accessible at a self-serve fuel bay at the head of pontoon 'F'. The large and well-stocked Force 4 chandlery has almost any part imaginable available.




The marina boasts extensive shore-side amenities, including a slipway, a 65-tonne travel lift, a 25-tonne transporter, and a 20-tonne mobile crane. The boatyard offers a wide range of marine services, including electronics, GRP repairs, cosmetic work, and engineering.

The marina's fully licensed bar and bistro overlooks the river and is open year-round, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are numerous excellent pubs and restaurants nearby on either side of the river. The renowned Jolly Sailor pub, facing the marina from the west bank, is particularly notable. The Swanwick post office is within walking distance. The nearest large supermarket is Tesco, approximately 1.5 miles away at the top of Hamble Lane, a 30-minute walk.

Situated on a bend of the Hamble River just beyond the A27 Bridge, road access and parking are very convenient and usually available close to the main gangways. Bursledon railway station, on the West Coastway Line, is a short walk away and provides hourly services between Southampton Central and Portsmouth Harbour, with additional trains during peak times.

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 has 24-hour manned security with 24-hour monitored CCTV and secure access control.

With thanks to:

Michael Harpur S/Y Whistler.