For all those who like me have struggled to navigate the Beaulieu River in the dark I have great news!
New navigational lights have been installed to help night sailors on the Beaulieu River as part of ongoing investment in the services and facilities for mooring holders and visitors at Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour.
Five sets of buoys have each been fitted with flashing beacons, making it even easier for visitors to the Beaulieu River to reach their journey’s end at night.
The markers light the way between Gins, at the Solent end of the river, and Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour. While additional lights have been added to markers that line the channel between Gins and the river’s mouth.
Beaulieu River Harbour Master Wendy Stowe said: “These navigational lights are already proving to be a big help to visitors and mooring holders to find their way at night. By ensuring that vessels always keep to the main channel in the deepest, safest part of the river, the lights are helping to improve navigational safety. “This is a huge boost to help those who are heading for the marina at the end of a long journey or making an early morning start.”
Fellow yachting author and broadcaster Tom Cunliffe recently used his expert knowledge and experience of mooring his boat on the Beaulieu River for more than 25 years to record his own navigational guide.
To see his top tips to navigate the Beaulieu River click here.
The new navigational lights are the latest in a series of investments to improve and update services and facilities, while still preserving the natural charm and unique character of the Beaulieu River.
The Beaulieu River is one of the few privately-owned rivers in the world which has ensured it remains an unspoilt haven in the heart of the New Forest National Park, while keeping pace with modern demands.
The popular boating destination is one of the most picturesque locations on the south coast, close to the sailing centres of Cowes, Lymington and Hamble.