Public slipways
The River Hamble offers four public slipways which are an easy way to access the river and launch vessels of most types, including trailered craft, canoes, and paddleboards.
If you are using any of the slipways, make sure you wear appropriate footwear to avoid cuts from sharp material such as shells.
Maintenance piles are available at major slipways on a first-come, first-served basis.
Warsash slipway
Shore Road, Warsash, SO31 9FR
Warsash slipway is the largest slipway and gives quick access to Southampton Water and the Solent. Suitable for larger vessels in suitable weather and tidal conditions. Personal watercraft should be launched here because of the proximity of Southampton Water.
Parking: Shorter stay pay and display parking is available adjacent to the slipway and boardwalk. For longer stays, visit the car park at Passage Lane. Visitors must not park on the slipway because it blocks access for other users. Vehicles may become submerged on higher tides.
Hamble slipway
The Quay, Hamble, SO31 4HB
A smaller slipway suitable for launching RIBs and motor vessels.
Parking: Pay and display parking is available adjacent to the slipway and in Hamble village.
Swanwick slipway
Swanwick Shore Road, Swanwick, SO31 7EF
An ideal place to launch kayaks and canoes, and to explore the upper reaches of the River Hamble. This slipway is not suitable for jet skis because of the 6 knot speed limit and distance from the mouth of the river.
Parking: Pay and display car parking is available at Swanwick Shore Road car park, with a few spaces to park trailers. Cars should not park on the slipway as this blocks its use for others.
Lands End slipway
Lands End Road, Bursledon, SO31 8DN
A useful small slipway to launch dinghies, kayaks and other small craft, and to explore the upper reaches of the River Hamble. Not suitable for jet skis because of the 6 knot speed limit and distance from the mouth of the river.
Parking: Very limited free parking on Lands End Road. Those using Lands End Road should not block residential access. Other pay and display car parking is available at Bursledon railway station.
