Debunking boating myths: #1 The cost

“It seems like taking the boat out for a day could be quite expensive”

This is a common topic, and although it's difficult to answer, people still want to know. So here it goes…

If you just fancy a quick and easy trip, you can head over towards Seaview on the Isle of Wight and pick up a buoy off Seaview Yacht Club for a pint in the bar or drop the hook in Priory Bay. By the time you get back, you will have used around 25 litres of fuel, which equates to about £52 at today’s pump process (Nov 23).

Or how about heading up to Cowes for lunch at the Lifeboat or the Folly Inn? It takes about 35 minutes of running time each way and requires 40 litres of fuel for the round trip, costing approximately £84

If you fancy a trip further afield, consider a trip to Yarmouth for some fun and lunch. Find a spot in the harbour or call a water taxi after picking up a mooring outside. The trip is 18 nautical miles each way and costs £135 for 64 litres of fuel.

Would you like to visit the stunning Alum Bay and explore the beach for fossils? You can even head out to see the Needles lighthouse. This round trip from Haslar Marina will cover approximately 45 miles and require around 76 litres of fuel, costing approximately £160.

Assuming the boat cruises at 20-22 knots with 3-4 people in calm conditions, fuel costs will increase in larger seas or with a loaded boat. Main Solent destinations are within 20 nm, so a great day out shouldn't cost over £150.