Marina Guide 2017/18 by Island Harbour Marina

01983 539 994 Mill Lane | Newport Isle of Wight | PO30 2LA www.island-harbour.co.uk

Marina Guide 2017/18

CONTENTS

Meet The Team

Welcome Aboard

Safety First

The Breeze Restaurant & Bar

6-7

Marina Facilities

8-11

Island Harbour Development

14-15

Precautionary Area

Environment

Cycle Route

Medina Estuary

Charity Fun Day & Boat Jumble

26-27

Marina Rates

30-31

Weather & Tides

Tide Times

34-36

Dragon Boat Race

40-41

Island Harbour Yacht Club

Island Harbour Marina History

46-47

Paddle Steamers of Island Harbour

48-49

Business Directory

50-51

Island Attractions

52-53

Events Programme

54-55

Harbours & Marinas

Marina Plan

58-59

Richardsons Yacht Services

Back Page

MEET THE TEAMâ&#x20AC;Ś.

Darren Marina Manager

Suzanne Assistant Marina Manager

Christian Administrator

Simon Maintenance Manager

Nick Gardener/ Maintenance

Sean Lock Keeper

Dave Lock Keeper

Welcome to Island Harbour, the Isle of Wight’s marina ‘oasis‘. A tranquil, beautiful and sheltered haven, with plenty of grass areas, green fields and a prime view of the picturesque River Medina. And when you come to visit us, you may be lucky enough to be able to sit on your boat, with a drink in your hand, watching one of our glorious sunsets over the west bank. If you have children or dogs, then this is also the perfect marina for you. We have a brand-new first-class children’s play area, plenty of surrounding countryside and a riverside walkway and cycle track. New for 2017, we also have an upgraded Wi-Fi system, providing much faster access than ever before. Being a fairly small independent marina, we pride ourselves on the personal and friendly service that we provide. So, if you ever need anything, feel free to come and see us, as nothing is ever too much trouble. And the marina has a fantastic future ahead of it. We are heavily investing in our on-site facilities, having already completed our new shower and toilet block and finished a major upgrade of the Breeze Restaurant & Bar. There are also more exciting developments to come over the next year or two, which will bring Island Harbour to the forefront of the marinas on the south coast. More information is enclosed. I am very fortunate to have a great team around me. This year, joining me and Suzanne in the Control Tower, we now also have Christian, along with Sean, our lock-keeper. As before, Simon and Nick are outside, helping us with all of our maintenance needs. In the new and improved Breeze Restaurant and Bar, we have Josh, Jane and the rest of the team in attendance, including head-chef Scott and the rest of the kitchen staff, all working their magic for you. As ever, Richardsons Yacht Services are here as our resident boat builders, so if you ever have any maintenance issues, they are sure to be able to offer TLC to your pride and joy. Established for nearly 30 years, Terry, Carla and their crew can provide a full range of boat repair services. They also have an excellent and well-equipped chandlery in their brand new workshop, at the rear of our boatyard. They can also provide food and newspapers as well. If you ever need to bring your boat ashore, we have a secure boatyard, with electricity and water throughout. Finally, you may also want to join the Island Harbour Yacht Club, ably run by Commodore Roger and Heather, the Club Secretary. For more details, see their website, or talk to Carla in Richardsons. After the long, wet and windy winter months, I wish everyone a very happy season’s sailing. I am sure that we will all have a terrific year ahead of us. Darren Cooke, Marina Manager.

In the event of FIRE, raise the alarm by calling 999 and notify the marina office on 01983 539994 or VHF Channel 80. Please also alert all other boats in the area. In the event of an emergency, the harbour Muster Point is located on the grass verge directly opposite the car park and is marked with a blue â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Muster Pointâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; board. In the event of a MAN OVERBOARD, please raise the alarm. Give as much assistance as you can, without risk to yourself. Life rings and safety ladders are available on the main walk-ways (see the marina plan on centre pages). Pontoons may be wet and slippery at any time. Please be extra vigilant at night. Swimming / fishing is prohibited within the marina. Particular care should be taken when alcohol has been consumed. Wear a life jacket if you are in doubt or if you cannot swim. 5

Children must be supervised at ALL times around the marina.

THE BREEZE RESTAURANT & BAR The Breeze Restaurant & Bar is set within the peaceful surroundings of Island Harbour Marina. With free ample parking and a picturesque view it is an ideal venue for your special meal. Open daily throughout the year we offer a very warm welcome, whether you are a boat-owner or landlubber. We offer a selection of delicious food, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and daily specials, not to mention our hugely popular Sunday roast. We pride ourselves on using fresh, locally sourced produce to ensure quality and taste. Enjoy your meal with a cold beer or glass of wine from our fully licensed bar, all of which can be enjoyed either inside the restaurant or outside on the heated patio or terrace area. Over 2016, we have extensively enlarged and refurbished the restaurant, also adding a brand new separate function room available for hire, offering bespoke bookings for all events and occasions. All within one of the most scenic areas of the Isle of Wight.

For reservations and enquiries please call: 01983 533 388

NEW FOR EASTER 2017 We are pleased to announce that our new play area will be open by Easter 2017. We are very proud of the fact that our restaurant has been awarded the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for three years in a row. This is for 2014, 2015 and now recently in 2016 as well. So if you have never tried us before, you can see that we are highly recommended by independent reviewers. We are also very pleased to say that we have a 5-star Food Hygiene rating, so you can visit in confidence. If you enjoy walking, we are a perfect stopping-off point, along the lovely River Medina footpath. Alternatively if you are looking for a lunchtime stop-over, you can tie-up on our Holding Pontoon free of charge, whilst you are eating in the Breeze. We also have a variety of live entertainment programmed for throughout the year, visit our Facebook page for upcoming events. TripAdvisor: Breeze Newport F: @iowTheBreeze | T: @iow_thebreeze thebreeze@island-harbour.co.uk | www.island-harbour.co.uk/thebreeze

MARINA FACILITIES & INFORMATION LISTED ALPHABETICALLY BBQs

CUSTOMS

We have a number of large BBQs for use free of charge, subject to availability. Please book in advance where possible.

If you are arriving or departing from any country outside the EU, including the Channel Islands, you must complete the Customs form C1331. These forms are available from the marina office.

You may use your own BBQ, but ONLY in the 2 designated camping grounds. BBQs must be raised off the grass and must not be placed within the boundary of the pine tree grove. Please ensure that your BBQ is completely extinguished at the end of use. BBQs on the pontoon are expressly forbidden... for obvious reasons!

DOGS Please keep dogs on a lead at all times when on marina property. Do not allow them to annoy fellow berth holders/ visitors. Please use the dog waste-bin provided. ELECTRICITY

BERTHING ASSISTANCE

Electricity is supplied to all resident berth holders and will be set up and invoiced on a monthly basis. If the usage is under £25.00, the total will be carried over to the following month. There is a £5.25 monthly service charge for all boats within the hard standing plugged into electric. Marina visitors can have electricity supplied to their berth for £2.85 per day. Please notify the Control Tower if you wish to be connected.

Assistance is available to help you when entering or leaving your berth. Please contact us on VHF Ch-80 or 01983 539 994. CALOR GAS Calor and camping gas bottles can be purchased/exchanged on-site at Richardsons Yacht Services. CONTRACTORS

FERRY SERVICES

Should berth holders prefer to bring in outside contractors, permission MUST be sought from both Richardsons Yacht Services and the Marina Manager, prior to any work being carried out. They must also have the relevant liability insurance and sign in/ out.

The Waterbus is available for trips between Island Harbour, the Folly and Cowes/East Cowes at extremely competitive rates. Just call Dave on 07974 864 627 or VHF Ch-77.

MARINA FACILITIES & INFORMATION LISTED ALPHABETICALLY FISHING

LOCK OPERATION

In the interests of all users, fishing is strictly prohibited within the marina.

LOCKING IN PROCEDURE When approaching Island Harbour from the Cowes end of the River Medina, call up Island Harbour on Ch-80, giving your boat name and approximate arrival time.

HARDSTANDING Our yard has space for over 100 vessels, with water and electric points throughout. Trailer storage is available at the standard rate. Contact the control tower for more information.

On arriving at Island Harbour you will be directed by the duty lockkeeper to tread water, moor on the waiting pontoon or approach the lock with care.

KEYS Berth holders and visitors who are leaving vessels at the marina are required to leave a set of keys with the marina office in case of an emergency. Keys will only be released to the named owner or pre-arranged friends or contractors.

ONLY ENTER THE LOCK WHEN THE LIGHTS ARE SHOWING GREEN LOCKING OUT PROCEDURE Please ensure that you have informed the Control Tower of the time you wish to leave.

LAUNDRY ROOM There are laundry facilities available to all marina users, including a coin-operated washing machine, tumble dryer and iron.

When ready to leave, please contact the Control Tower on VHF Ch-80, informing them that you are ready. Remain on your berth until called forward, you will be called to the lock only when the duty lockkeeper is ready. Remember, he can see all boat movements; and you may not be able to! So for your safety please be patient until called forward. Lock movements are approximately HW +/- 4 hours during daylight hours, depending on draught. Please enquire at the Control Tower (01983 539 994) or on VHF Channel 80. 9

MARINA FACILITIES & INFORMATION LISTED ALPHABETICALLY MAIL

RESTAURANT & BAR

We are happy to receive post on behalf of all berth holders and visitors. Incoming mail/parcels will be held in the marina office for a maximum of 45 days. This service is provided in good faith and we do not accept liability for lost or damaged goods.

The Breeze Restaurant and Bar: Open for breakfasts, lunch and evening meals, with both indoor and outdoor seating. See pages 6-7 for more info. Tel: 01983 533 388 for bookings. RICHARDSONS YACHT SERVICES

MUSTER POINT

Chandlery: Stock an extremely broad range of boat requisites. A range of basic provisions are available and other items can be pre-ordered.

The marina Muster Point is located on the grass verge directly opposite the car park and is marked with a blue ‘Muster Point’ board. OPENING TIMES

Tel: 01983 821 095.

The marina office opening hours;

Boatyard: A complete range of marine services including shipwrights, engineering work, electrical work, 50 ton boat lift, 9 ton mobile crane, insurance work, general servicing and repairs.

08:00 - 17:00 hrs Daily. Lock operating times; Summer; 1 April – 30 September 08:00 - 21:00 hrs Daily. Winter; 1 October – 31 March 08:00 - 17:00 hrs Daily.

SECURITY Security is provided during normal working hours by the marina staff. 24hr CCTV is in operation around the marina.

Out of hours lock operation can be arranged by prior arrangement, subject to tide conditions. REFUELLING

SHOWERS AND WCs

There are currently no refuelling facilities within the marina and refuelling from fuel cans is strictly prohibited. Fuel can be obtained from the Fuel Barge and Lallows Boatyard on the River Medina.

The shower/WC blocks are cleaned twice daily and are maintained throughout the day. If there are any problems at all, please notify a member of staff. The code can be obtained from the Control Tower. 10

MARINA FACILITIES & INFORMATION LISTED ALPHABETICALLY SLIPWAY

VHF RADIO

The marina has two slipways, one going into the marina, the other into the river. The latter is restricted by the tides and is only operational around high tide.

The marina maintains a continuous listening watch during lock opening hours on Channel 80 – Call sign ‘Island Harbour’.

TRAVEL SERVICES

Water is supplied to all pontoons/ berths free of charge.

WATER

We are happy to produce a list of taxi numbers on request. Public bus services run every 20 minutes from the top of Mill Lane. Water taxis are available by contacting Dave and the Waterbus on 07974 864 627 or VHF Ch-77.

WEATHER FORECASTS Local weather forecasts are displayed daily at the Control Tower. WI-FI The marina offers both a free and premium Wi-Fi service. You can log in to the free service under ’Free Island Harbour’, using Facebook. This step can be skipped if you do not have a Facebook account. If you wish to use the faster premium service, please contact the Control Tower.

TROLLEYS Trolleys are available for all marina users; a £1 coin deposit is required to unlock them. They are located within the car park area. Please be considerate to other users by returning them in a clean state.

If you have any queries or concerns please contact the Control Tower on: 01983 539 994 or for out of hours concerns please call: 07980 485 570

Celebrate with us at The Breeze Weddings Christenings Anniversaries Birthdays Whatever the occasion we have the perfect setting, with packages to suit all budgets Contact 01983 533 388 or email thebreeze@island-harbour.co.uk

- THE ISLANDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GARDEN MARINA -

Shamrock Quay, Southampton, SO14 5QH

Bowcombe Business Park, Bowcombe, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 3HZ Visit: www.coastworkerboats.co.uk Email: sales@bowcombe.com Tel: 01983 532727

COASTWORKER 18 OFFSHORE SPORT

ONE OF THE ROOMIEST 18 FOOTERS AROUND PACKAGE PRICES FROM Â£22,339 FOR BOAT/MARINER 60 ELPT/ROAD TRAILER/COVER MAXIMUM ENGINE SIZE 140HP, OUTBOARD OR INBOARD STERNDRIVE SEE THE FULL RANGE OF SEASPRAY DORIES AND COASTWORKER BOATS ON OUR WEBSITES SEASPRAY 13 & 15FT DORIES AND COASTWORKER 18, 21 & 25FT WORKBOATS Www.coastworkerboats.co.uk and www.mbboats.co.uk BUILT ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT BY: MB BOATS, BOWCOMBE BUSINESS PARK, BOWCOMBE, NEWPORT, PO30 3HZ. TEL: 01983 532727 EMAIL: 17 sales@bowcombe.com

Caution Breakwater Exclusion Zone marked by lit buoys A strong cross current of up to 1.5 knots may be experienced between HW –2.5 and HW –1 hrs.

ENVIRONMENT WE MAKE SURE WE DO OUR BIT! At Island Harbour Marina, we will always endeavour to protect the environment and the surrounding countryside. Being in an area of outstanding natural beauty, we take our obligations very seriously indeed.

BATTERIES

SEWAGE DISPOSAL

Please contact MRCC Solent on 02392 552 100 for the disposal of out of date flares.

Facilities are provided by Richardsons Yacht Services for the disposal of batteries. FLARE DISPOSAL

Bilges are not to be pumped out into the marina at any time.

OIL SPILLS

DISPOSAL OF WASTE OIL

Alert the marina office immediately to any oil spills. The appropriate action will be taken.

Facilities are provided by Richardsons Yacht Services for the disposal of waste oil.

RECYCLING

DOG WASTE BINS

We currently have recycling bins available for both glass and clothing.

We have provided waste bins around the marina which we would request that you take advantage of.

CAR PARKING

BOAT FRIDGES

Please park only in designated areas. Enforcement of this rule is in operation.

Enquire at the marina office for advice on the disposal of boat fridges.

The medina estuary is such an important area for nature conservation that it is protected by six different designations under national and international law. From source to sea the River Medina is 17km long and rises as chalk springs from St Catherine's Down on the south of the island. As it flows north it collects water from an area over 70km2 .

The Medina Estuary has a wonderfully interesting character made up of a rich maritime heritage, wealth of natural habitats and vibrant mix of recreation, transport and industry.

Pick up your Medina Estuary Circular Walk Guide from the Control Tower today!

Island Valeting APPROVED TRADER

In association with RICHARDSONS YACHT SERVICES LTD

Phone KEITH on 07776 408 339 Or email jeciow@aol.co.uk

Test your knowledge

Answers on page 28

Safety & Security is a big part of Island Harbour. Lockkeepers on hand

We know that your vessel is your pride and joy, so we hope to give you piece of mind knowing that your boat is being kept in safe hands. Not only do we have 24 hour CCTV in operation, no boat is getting out of our lock without us knowing about it!

For the last 4 years Island Harbour Marina, Island Harbour Yacht Club and Richardsons Yacht Services have got together to put on a memorable event in support of inspirational Island Charities. The event starts with a bang at 10:00am with our popular ‘Marine boat Jumble’ and runs until 4pm, usually followed by an unforgettable evening at The Breeze Restaurant & Bar. We were delighted to have been supported by around 50 local businesses each year. Kids (& adults) were kept entertained with a bouncy castle, kayak rides, stocks, petting areas, live entertainment and much more. Raffle tickets are on sale throughout the day with the raffle drawn at around 4pm. Over the years we have had many fantastic prizes donated such as; tickets to The Lion King in London, Southampton Boat Show tickets, Annual family pass to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, discounted boat surveys and much, much more. A massive thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years and we look forward to many more. With everyone’s help we have raised a combined total of almost £6,000.00 for very worthy charities. Join us this year on Saturday 2nd September, 10am-4pm. Boat jumble and fun day pitches along with any further information is available from the Control Tower or by calling us on 01983 539 994.

FUNDAY 2017 2 SEPTEMBER - 10AM-4PM

2013

2014

2015

2016 27

DINGHY SAILING TUITION Contact IHYC for more information Email: colin@ihyc.org.uk

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

Island Harbour is also home to:

and

Spice Bus

MARINA RATES 2017/18 Prices per metre Summer Annual 6 Months Month Week Daily Midweek Daily Weekend Cowes Week Holding pontoon

Rates £350.00* £255.00 £45.00 £15.00 £2.70 £3.00 £17.50 £15.00

Winter 6 Months Month Week Daily Midweek Daily Weekend

£95.00 £24.00 £10.00 £2.00 £2.40

VAT

Net Price

£58.33

£291.67

£42.50

£212.50

£7.50

£37.50

£2.50

£12.50

£0.45

£2.25

£0.50

£2.50

£2.92

£14.58

£2.50

£12.50

£15.83

£79.17

£4.00

£20.00

£1.66

£8.34

£0.33

£1.67

£0.40

£2.00

Here at Island Harbour we aim to assist in any way possible. We know the lock can be daunting for some people, but the staff at the marina are always on hand to help. 

All vessels MUST call CH 80 before approaching the lock



Holding pontoon charge exemption available for Breeze or Richardsons short stay customers

*All of our annual berth holders receive 1 month’s free hardstanding.

Free Wi-Fi * BBQS * Water & electricity supply * Camping & picnic area 30

HARDSTANDING RATES 2017/18 Prices per metre

Summer

Rates

VAT

Net Price

6 Months Month Week Daily

£69.00 £11.50 £4.60 £0.70

£11.52

£57.48

£1.92

£9.58

£0.77

£3.83

£0.12

£0.58

Winter 6 Months Month Week Daily

£87.00 £14.50 £4.80 £0.76

£14.52

£72.48

£2.42

£12.08

£0.80

£4.00

£0.13

£0.63

Our yard has space for over 100 vessels, with water and electric points throughout. We are lucky enough to have on site Richardsons Yacht Services who will be on hand to offer whatever it is you need to get your boat sea-worthy and ready for the next season. Whether work is being carried out, or you just want to keep her dry throughout the winter, we are able to offer you the space that you need.

Notes

WEATHER AND TIDES

BBC Radio 4

Daily weather and wind forecasts will be displayed on the notice board underneath the marina Control Tower.

Long wave 198 & 92-95 FM Shipping Forecasts Daily at 0048, 0520, 1200 and 1754 FM 00:48, 05:20

Local tide times are also displayed on the office notice board.

Isle of Wight Radio 107FM, 102FM

Assistance is also available from a member of the team in the Control Tower.

Weather forecasts: 0600-0900 every half hour 1000-2200 hourly on the hour 1600-1800 every half hour

Tide Times www.cowes.co.uk/tidetables.html

Online Weather Information

www.tidetimes.co.uk

Met Office

www.tidetimes.org.uk/ cowes-tide-times

www.metoffice.gov.uk BBC Weather

www.visitmyharbour.com

www.bbc.co.uk/weather

www.southamptonweather.co.uk www.island-harbour.co.uk

Isle of Wight Weather www.isleofwightweather.co.uk

33 33

Cowes Tide Tables IOW 2017/18 All times are GMT and are correct for BST from 26/03/2017 to 29/10/2017 and from 25/03/2018. The tidal data contained in the Island Harbour Brochure is for general purposes only and does not constitute professional or other advice. Although Island Harbour endeavours to ensure that the content of the brochure is accurate and up-to-date, Island Harbour produced the tide tables in good faith and are to be used as a guideline.

Island Harbour Marina, home to: The Breeze Restaurant & Bar Richardsons Yacht Services Island Harbour Yacht Club 35

* Visitor Moorings * Boat Storage * Rally Discount * Luxury Facilities * Annual Berthing * Outer Waiting Pontoon 36

Scan the QR code to visit our website.

Reasons to visit Island Harbour Friendly and helpful staff * Peace and tranquillity Centrally located * Dedicated lockkeepers on hand Excellent berthing rates * Good social calendar Newly refurbished restaurant * Ideal for families

ISLAND HARBOUR MARINA Marina Berths ~ Camping ~ Campervans 



Camping and campervan grounds On site: restaurant, shop, late night bar, shower, toilet  and laundry block  24-hour security  Riverside walks  Water taxi services  Only 500 yards from entrance A2  Buggy transport in to the festival  Discounted VIP Festival tickets available

Being sited next door to the Isle of Wight Festival grounds, we are ideally placed as your base for the weekend. So whether you want to bring your boat, campervan, caravan or tent, we have the space and a warm welcome waiting for you.

Island Harbour: 01983 539994 39

For the last 2 years around St George’s Day, national and local companies were invited to compete in the Dragon Boat Race, in an exciting bid to see which team would be crowned Dragon Boat Champions of the Isle of Wight. The Isle of Wight Festival organised the event at Island Harbour Marina, to raise money for their chosen charities. The event has attracted the likes of Boyzone's Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy and Shane Lynch, Westlife’s Mark Feehily, Actor Nicholas Pinnock, Starsailor's James Walsh , TV Presenter Torie Campbell and The Corrs’ Caroline Corr, with a giant Dragon Skull from Game of Thrones home entertainment promotion taking pride of place here at Island Harbour. The first year saw over 300 people making up 20 teams sign up raising an incredible £50,000 for WellChild. Newport based Connor Construction, currently undertaking a project at Island Harbour, were flying the flag for the Island along with other team members from local Island businesses, including Island Roads. At the end of the afternoon four teams lined up for the Grand Final. Booze Crewz and Air Partners just missed out on the honours but Team Wight Lightning (IOW Festival) just pipped local team Connor Construction and came out as champions. The second year attracted 20 teams raising a staggering £60,000 for Stand Up To Cancer. The Island teams competing at Island Harbour included Cheap Skips (IW), Connor Construction, Island Harbour Marina, The Price is Wight, Wight Fibre and We Love Island Businesses. Wightlink proved to be the Form Team recording the two fastest times of the day- 1:06:88 and 1:08:08 to reach the final. They were joined by Connor Construction with a best time of 1:09:38, IOW Festival 1:11:33 and Island Harbour Marina 1:11:44. It was a very close finish with all four teams within 5.5 seconds overall. Island Harbour Marina overcame the challenge of Connor Construction for Island bragging rights. The Isle of Wight Festival were pleased to be crowned the champions for a second year running. Fingers crossed the event will return again for 2017. 40

This years event will be on 27th April

The Breeze Restaurant & Bar Open 7 days a week Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, using fresh, locally sourced produce Book your table today

01983 533 388 42

ISLAND HARBOUR YACHT CLUB -formed in April, 2013-Created, and run by a small committee of volunteers-A non-profit making organisation    

for the benefit of Members, currently numbering around 200. to raise funds for local & national charities. to create unity between residents, berth holders and visitors by organising social gatherings & events. New for 2017- Dinghy sailing tuition with Merlin Rocket Revival fleet. Club Members benefit from discount on all drinks in The Breeze.

Club Regalia & Burgees are available from Richardsons Yacht Services, where discount is offered to Members on published lift out prices and general chandlery, not already discounted.

-Benefits to Members also include discounts from other services & suppliers-We welcome visits from other clubsTo the marina and The Breeze Restaurant & Bar, where you will find a warm, friendly atmosphere.

£10.00 Joining Fee for Full Members, with an annual Membership fee currently of £40.00. £10.00 for Associate Membership for your partner. Contact Club Hon. Secretary: heather@ihyc.org.uk Visit www.ihyc.org.uk 44

The Sea Cadet Corps is the UK's largest maritime youth charity. The aim of the Sea Cadets is to help young people towards responsible adulthood and to encourage them to reach their potential by developing valuable personal attributes and high standards of conduct, using a nautical theme, based on the customs and traditions of the Royal Navy. The Sea Cadet Corps helps youngsters, aged between 10 and 18 develop their self confidence and character into becoming, in the most general sense, the good citizens and neighbours of the future. Training activities we do, include: Sailing, kayaking, rowing, Military Marching Band, adventure training, canoeing, windsurfing, Duke of Edinburgh's Award and much, much more! Ryde Unit has a Royal Marine Cadet Detachment. Cadets train following in the footsteps of the Royal Marine Commandos and learn the combat skills of camouflage and concealment. If you think you might like to join us, then please telephone or email to arrange to come for a visit, and we will give you a tour of the unit, explain further what we offer young people, and answer any questions you might have. Then you can make an informed decision about whether Sea Cadets is for you. TS ROYAL GEORGE RYDE SEA CADETS Call us today! rydeseacadets1@btinternet.com Registered Charity Number: 308049 Duty Mobile: 07933 290 004 TS OSBORNE COWES SEA CADETS tsosbornescc@yahoo.com Registered Charity Number 302011 45

Island Harbour History Medieval Times The story of Island Harbour centres around two small streams, called Great Luck and Claybrook Luck, although in the past they have also been known as Heathfield Rew and Claybrook Rew. These streams still survive today, feeding in to the back of our marina. From as early as 1132, the monks of the nearby Quarr Abbey owned all of the surrounding land. This included Binfield Farm, which is along our lane (Mill Lane), although in those days it was called Claybrook Farm. By damming the two streams, the monks formed fish ponds. These were possibly used for cultivating oysters, for which the River Medina was famous. In around 1250, the monks built a water mill on the site, using these two huge ponds as mill ponds. These form the basis of our modern marina. The land stayed in the monks’ ownership until 1536, when Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries and the site was seized by the Crown. In 1628, the land was sold back into private ownership by Charles I, to help him pay off some of his debts. At this time, the land was just operated as Claybrook Farm, although it still retained its fish ponds.

East Medina Mill The next major development occurred in 1790, when William Porter, a local baker, built East Medina Mill on the site, again using the dammed streams as mill ponds. The mill survived until 1950, when it was eventually demolished. The mill was a huge building and amongst other things, supplied ship’s biscuits to the convict transport ships that were heading for Australia. In that way, East Medina Mill became jokingly known as Botany Bay Mill. Porter also built West Medina Mill, on the opposite riverbank, which was known as ‘Port Jackson’ for the same reason . He also built Yarmouth Mill, which still survives. In building all three mills, he unfortunately overstretched himself and was driven into bankruptcy in 1791. He died a few years later, whilst still a young man, leaving a pregnant wife and four small children destitute. The mill was then taken over by William Roach, whose family held the mill for 150 years, through eight generations, until it finally closed in 1937. John Roach, the final owner, had by then already sold the mill and the site to the local council, who just used the mill as a store; and so its days as one of England’s finest mills drew to an end. 46

But whilst it was operating, some fascinating events occurred at East Medina Mill. Because the building was so large, in its earliest days, part of the building was also used as a barracks for Hessian mercenary soldiers from Germany and Prussia, who were drafted into the army by King George III. In 1794, eighty four of these troops tragically died at the mill from typhus. They were buried in a mass, but unmarked grave, at the nearby Whippingham church. A century later, when the Landgraf of Hesse heard about this in 1906, he visited the church and presented a commemorative plaque in their honour. In 1930, a terrible storm hit the island and the mill was extensively damaged in the 90mph winds. Half of the roof was torn off and landed 100 yards away, just missing two nearby cottages. In 1945, whilst derelict, the mill was completely gutted by a huge fire, thought to have been started by local children. This was the final nail in the old millâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coffin, which was as stated, demolished in 1950.

The Medway Queen Marina In 1965, three local businessmen got together, with the vision to turn the unused site into a marina, using the long established mill ponds at its core. They were brothers Alan and Colin Ridett and together with Robert Trapp, they opened the Medway Queen Marina in 1966. At the same time, they saved the paddle steamer Medway Queen from being scrapped and brought it to the marina as its centrepiece, restaurant and clubhouse. Over the succeeding years they developed the marina, by landscaping, building the lock gates and used concrete jetties, instead of floating pontoons. Alan Ridett, who was an architect by trade, even personally designed and built our iconic mushroom-shaped Control Tower in 1982. They also saved and brought over the Ryde Queen paddle steamer. In its heyday, one thousand people could dance the night away at the famous Island Harbour floating nightclub. The marina was formally opened in 1971 by Claude Prouvoyeur, Mayor of Dunkirk, owing to the fact that the Medway Queen saved 7,000 troops, by heroically brining them home from the beaches. Since those early days, the marina has changed hands a number of times and also changed names too. The succeeding names being Wight Marina, Medina Yacht Harbour and in 1987, it changed its name to the current Island Harbour Marina. 47

The Paddle Steamers Since the marina was built in 1966, there have always been paddle steamers here. The Medway Queen, P.S. Ryde and Kingswear Castle were all brought here by the marina’s first owners between 1965 and 1970. They were a huge success in the heyday of nightclubs and many, many people still have enormously fond memories of Island Harbour’s famous floating nightclubs.

The Medway Queen Arriving in 1965, the Medway Queen was the centrepiece, clubhouse and nightclub for the brand new marina, which opened the following year. She was built in 1924 and originally operated as a tourist vessel, taking passengers on day trips between Strood and Southend on the River Medway. She is 179 feet long and could carry 980 passengers. When her career ended in 1963, she was on the verge of being scrapped, but due to her distinguished war-time service, the Daily Mail mounted a campaign for her to be saved. This gave Alan Ridett the opportunity to buy her, paying £6,000 to the Belgian breaking company that had bought her. During World War II, the Medway Queen was drafted into the Royal Navy and was converted into a minesweeper, going on to become the ‘Heroine of Dunkirk’. Making seven trips across the English Channel, she rescued 7,000 soldiers from the beaches, a record for a vessel of her size. She was severely damaged on the final trip, when she was in collision with another warship, but still managed to make it home safely. As a nightclub, she ultimately proved to be too small to cope with the heaving throng of clubbers, who came here to dance the night away. Because of this, the bigger P.S. Ryde was brought in as a replacement in 1970, leaving the Medway Queen to slowly rust away on her mooring. However, in 1984, she was taken back to Gillingham Pier on the River Medway, where she is currently undergoing complete restoration.

P.S. Ryde (aka The Ryde Queen) Built in 1937, the 216 feet long, coal-fired Ryde spent her career as a commercial passenger ferry, operating across the Solent between Portsmouth and Ryde Pier, running the identical route to the current Wightlink Catamarans. She was licensed to carry 1,011 passengers. Withdrawn from service in 1969, the Ridetts again saved the Ryde from the breakers yard, buying her for £12,000. 48

of Island Harbour The P.S. Ryde is another war hero, spending World War II in the navy as HMS Ryde. She operated as a minesweeper, before being converted into an anti-aircraft ship, protecting the Thames estuary and London. However, she also made it to France, taking part in the Normandy landings at Omaha Beach. At one stage, she was given the order to beach herself there, if she did not have enough fuel to return. Luckily, she did. During the war, she was also struck in the engine room by a bomb, but her luck continued, when it failed to explode. Joining the Medway Queen here at Island Harbour, the P.S. Ryde was renamed to the Ryde Queen in a ceremony that was performed by the reigning Miss Great Britain, Carolyn Moore. Berthed side-by-side, the two vessels could accommodate 1,000 enthusiastic night clubbers between them. In 1974, the Medway Queen closed, leaving the Ryde Queen to continue operating on her own. The Ryde stayed open until 1989, when her deteriorating condition forced closure. Languishing here ever since, she is now unfortunately beyond repair and after 46 years at Island Harbour, her days are now sadly coming to an end.

P.S. Kingswear Castle Less well known, is the Kingswear Castle, which was here between 1967 and 1971. At 113 feet long, she could carry 500 passengers and spent her career in service on the River Dart, between Totnes and Dartmouth. Withdrawn from service in 1965, she was then brought to our marina, to be restored and used for pleasure trips on the River Medina. However, during the four years that she was here, her condition worsened and after only a couple of excursions, she was taken to the River Medway for restoration. She was finally restored in 1984 and returned to her home on the River Dart, where she now continues to be used for pleasure trips.

P.S. Monarch Monarch is the smallest commercial paddle steamer in the world, being only 42 feet long and capable of carrying only 12 passengers. She is relatively new, being completed in 2003. Owned privately, she used Island Harbour as her base between 2008 and 2010. She has since been sold and is currently running pleasure trips on the River Frome from Wareham, Dorset. The Waverley, Kingswear Castle and Monarch are now the only working paddle steamers left in the UK. Although the Ryde is unfortunately beyond saving, the Medway Queen will one-day re-join them, helping keep the age of steam alive! 49

BUSINESS DIRECTORY LISTED ALPHABETICALLY

Island Harbour Marina

01983 539 994

Marina out of hours

07980 485 570

The Breeze Restaurant

01983 533 388

Ferry Services Dave - Waterbus (VHF 77)

07974 864 627

Folly Launch (VHF 72)

07884 400 046

Red Funnel Ferries

0844 844 9988

Hover travel Ltd

01983 717 700

Wightlink Ferries

0333 999 7333

Yacht Services Richardsons Yacht Services

01983 821 095

Island Valeting

07776 408 339

B.V.D Marine

01983 532 727

Naughty Gull Marine Graphics 01676 540 769 Rebel Marine

07495 234 444

Spencer Rigging

01983 292 022

MB Boats

01983 532 727

Yacht Brokers Boatshed

01983 869 203

Waypoint

01983 200 785

BUSINESS DIRECTORY LISTED ALPHABETICALLY

General Services Island Divers

01983 240 255

Island Harbour Yacht Club

ihyc.org.uk

Maritime Volunteer Service

07971 525 853

Ryde Sea Cadets

07864 523 121

Taxi & Bus Services TJ Taxis Services

01983 520 274

Southern Vectis

01983 827 000

Emergency Services St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital 111 or

01983 822 099

Isle of Wight Dental Helpline

0845 050 8345

Police Launch

07774 684 327

Solent Coastguard

02392 552 100

Sea Start 24 hour recovery

0800 885 500

Gas Emergencies

0800 111 999

Electric Emergencies

0800 072 7282

Southern Water

0330 303 0368

RNLI Lifeboat Station Cowes

01983 299 387

ISLAND ATTRACTIONS IOW Steam Railway - Havenstreet Ryde, PO33 4DS - 01983 822 204 Www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk

Osborne House East Cowes, PO32 6JX - 0370 333 1181 Www.english-heritage.org.uk

Whippingham Church East Cowes, PO32 6HR - 01983 299 930 Www.whippinghameastcowes.org.uk

Quarr Abbey Ryde, PO33 4ES - 01983 882 420 Www.quarrabbey.org

The Needles Alum Bay, PO39 0JD - 01983 752 401 Www.theneedles.co.uk

Carisbrooke Castle Newport, PO30 1XY - 0370 333 1181 Www.english-heritage.org.uk

ISLAND ATTRACTIONS Tapnell Farm Park Yarmouth, PO41 0YJ - 01983 758 722 Www.tapnellfarm.com

Amazon World Sandown, PO36 0LX - 01983 867 122 Www.amazonworld.co.uk

Dinosaur Isle Sandown, PO36 0LX - 01983 404 344 Www.dinosaurisle.com

Ventnor Botanic Gardens Ventnor, PO38 1UL - 01983 855 397 Www.botanic.co.uk

Blackgang Chine Chale - 01983 730 330 - www.blackgangchine.com Robin Hill Newport - 01983 527 352 - www.robin-hill.com

IOW Adventure Activities Freshwater, PO40 9QX - 01983 755 838 Www.isleofwightadventureactivities.co.uk

EVENTS PROGRAMME April Real Ale Festival IoW Walking Festival

29 Apr-1 May 29 Apr-14 May

May Walk the Wight

14 May

Isle of Wight Arts Festival June Newport Jazz Weekend

1-4 Jun

Yarmouth Old Gaffers Festival

2-4 Jun

Isle of Wight Festival of Running

2-4 Jun

Isle of Wight Festival Royal Isle of Wight County Show

8-11 June 25 June

Festival of the Sea

July Round the Island Race

1 Jul

Shipwreck Isle

2 Jul

Island Motor Show Rhythm Tree Festival Isle of Wight Pride Cowes Classics Week Cowes Week

8-9 Jul 14-16 Jul 15 Jul 17-21 Jul 29 Jul-5 Aug

August Chale Show

5-6 Aug

Ventnor Fringe

8-13 Aug

Jack Up The 80s

11-13 Aug

V-Dub Island

11-14 Aug

Garlic Festival

19-20 Aug

International Scooter Rally

25-28 Aug

Cowes Classic

26-27 Aug 54

EVENTS PROGRAMME September Island Harbour Fun Day Eklectica at Robin Hill

2 Sept 9-10 Sept

Little Britain Challenge Cup

15-16 Sept

Southampton Boat Show

15-24 Sept

International Classic Car Show

16-17 Sept

West Wight Triathlon Isle of Wight Cycle Fest Isle of Wight Day

17 Sept 23 Sept-1 Oct 22-24 Sept

Electric Woods – “Festival of Light”

October Blackgang Illuminations

30 Sept-4 Nov

6 Oct –5 Nov 8 Oct

Isle of Wight Marathon

12-15 Oct

Isle of Wight Literary Festival

14-15 Oct

Classic Beer, Buses and Walks

20-24 Oct

Harp on Wight

23-27 Oct

Wizard Week

November

4 Nov

Sandown Carnival Fireworks

December Isle of Wight Steam Railway Santa Specials 2nd - 3rd, 9th - 10th, 16th - 17th, 21st - 24th Dec For more information go to Www.visitisleofwight.co.uk 55

HARBOURS & MARINAS LISTED ALPHABETICALLY Bembridge Harbour

01983 872 828

Northney Marina

02392 466 321

Berthon Lymington

01590 673 312

Ocean Quay Marina

02380 235 099

Buckler’s Hard Marina

01590 616 200

Ocean Village Marina

02380 229 385

Chichester Harbour

01243 512 301

Poole Harbour

01202 440 230

Chichester Marina

01243 512 731

Poole Quay Haven

01202 649 488

Cobbs Quay Marina

01202 674 299

Port Hamble Marina

02380 452 741

Cowes Harbour

01983 293 952

Port Solent Marina

02392 210 765

Cowes Yacht Haven

01983 299 975

QHM Portsmouth

02392 723 694

Deacons Marina

02380 402 253

Quayside Marina

02380 238 084

East Cowes Marina

01983 293 983

Royal Clarence Marina 02392 523 523

Emsworth Harbour

01243 377 727

Ryde Harbour

01983 613 879

Folly Inn

07884 400 046

Salterns Marina

01202 709 971

Gosport Marina

02392 524 811

Saxon Wharf

02380 339 490

Gunwharf Quays

02392 836 732

Shephards Wharf

01983 297 821

Hamble Point Marina

02380 452 464

Shamrock Quay Marina 02380 229 461

Haslar Marina

02392 601 201

Southampton Dry Stack 02380 238 084

Hythe Marina Village

02380 207 073

Southsea Marina

02392 822 719

Island Harbour Marina

01983 539 994

Sparkes Marina

02392 463 572

Kemp’s Quay

02380 632 323

Swanwick Marina

01489 884 081

Keyhaven

01590 645 695

Thornham Marina

01243 375 335

Langstone Harbour

02392 463 419

Town Quay (Camber)

02392 833 166

Lymington Harbour

01590 672 014

Town Quay Marina

02380 234 397

Lymington Yacht Haven 01590 677 071

Universal Marina

01489 574 272

Mercury Yacht Haven

02380 455 994

Ventnor Haven

01983 852 398

Newport Harbour

01983 525 994

Wootton Creek

01983 882 325

Newtown Harbour

01983 531 424

Yarmouth Harbour

01983 760 321

The Island’s largest independent Yacht Brokers With offices at

Clarence Boatyard, EAST COWES - Tel: 01983 200785 and

The Harbour Office, YARMOUTH - Tel: 01983 760876          

Competitive Commission Rates Discounts for Island Harbour Berth Holders No Sale – No Fee All Viewings Accompanied Valuation Advice Secure Clients Account for peace of mind Boat Finder Service Marine Insurance arranged in-house Assistance with Marine Finance Own-boat tuition with our in-house RYA Instructor

www.waypoint-yachtbrokers.co.uk 57

MARINA PLAN

Richardsons Y ACHT S E RV I CES LTD

 CHANDLERY Open 7 days a week • SLIPWAY Lift for up to 50 tons. Mobile Crane to 9 tons. Short or long term storage • REPAIRS From minor scratches to major structural damage. Supply & fit equipment Insurance work • ENGINEERING All aspects of marine engineering: installations, re-builds, servicing & repair • REFITS Complete external & interior refits • PAINTING Approved Application Centre for Awlgrip, Jotun, International & Hempel Paints • ELECTRICAL From minor faults, to supply & fit electronic equipment or complete rewires • INSTALLATIONS Bow/Stern thrusters, plumbing systems & alternative or additional propulsion systems AGENTS FOR BETA, VETUS, MERMAID & LOMBARDINI INBOARDS PLUS TOHATSU OUTBOARDS Island Harbour Marina, Mill Lane, Newport Isle of Wight PO30 2LA

@richardsonsyachtservices @RichardsonsYacht Richardsons Yacht Services Ltd

www.richardsonsyacht.co.uk | Tel: 01983 821095 | info@richardsonsyacht.co.uk 60