Solent Cruises

About

Solent Cruises, based at Thetis Wharf in Cowes have been operating boat trips, harbour tours and boat charters for many years, founded by Mark and Jenny Rayment, with their first Cowes Harbour Tour during Cowes Week in 1973.

The fleet of vessels have expanded over the years, currently operating from terminals in Cowes, Gunwharf Quays and the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and is now managed by son and daughter Ali and Lee Rayment, who took over the family reigns in 2007.

Vessels range from our smaller Jenny boats that can carry up to 65 passengers to the largest vessel in our fleet Wight Scene, carrying up to 390 passengers.

There are a number of flagship trips available:

The Needles Cruise (New for 2026)

Enjoy a cruise through Cowes Harbour and along the Island coastline with views of Hurst Castle and the Victorian Forts. Get up close to the 19th Century active Needles Lighthouse. This trip is available every Tuesday and Sunday from 5th April. 

Two Ports Cruise of Cowes & Portsmouth

Enjoy a cruise through Cowes Harbour out into the Solent with fantastic views of the Island's coastline, Osborne House and Norris Castle. The cruise takes you across the eastern Solent with views of the Solent sea forts and into the Portsmouth Naval Base, home of the Royal Navy. This trip is available every Wednesday and Thursday..

Cowes Harbour Trip

This trip is a 35 minute harbour tour and departs from Cowes Parade. There is full live commentary of Cowes Harbour with views of the Royal Yacht Squadron. 

Day Trip to Portsmouth

Visit Portsmouth in a day whilst visiting the Island. This day trip is from Cowes to Gunwharf Quays. Return trips available on Saturday and Sunday and 7 days a week during the Easter and summer school holidays.

All our vessels are also available for private charter and rates include hiring both the vessel and crew and we can also help you source food and entertainment.

Please see our website for more information or call 01983 564602.

Solent Cruises – Award Winning

Maritime Legacy Award (Mark Rayment – Posthumous) – Maritime Solent Awards 2025

Family Business of the Year – IW Radio Best in Business Awards 2025

Best Activity Provider (Silver) – Red Funnel Awards 2025