Southampton RIB Charter
WHERE
Southampton
What it’s like
Skippered RIB boat charters out of Southampton for groups of friends or family, booked by the half or full day.
This is a private charter rather than a set trip: you book a skippered RIB for half a day or a full day and the route gets tailored to what your group wants to do. That flexibility is the whole point, but it also means there's no fixed itinerary to lean on, you need to know roughly what you're after before you ring up.
Comfort-wise, go prepared. There's no toilet on board the RIB itself, though the marinas where you get picked up and dropped off have them, so time your stops. You'll be told to wear flat, non-slip shoes and to bring warm layers and waterproofs even on a sunny day, because the wind-chill out on the water catches people out. They do supply waterproof jackets and trousers if you turn up without, which is a decent safety net.
The rules on board are strict but sensible: life jackets on at all times, seated while the boat's moving, no smoking and no alcohol. There's a chance of getting wet whatever they do to keep the ride dry, so this suits a group who won't mind a splash rather than anyone wanting to stay pristine for a party afterwards.
Sessions run to half day or full day charters, and if you overrun there's a £100 an hour charge for extra time, so it pays to agree the finish time with the skipper before you set off.
Facilities
Plan your visit
Is there a toilet on board?
Not on the standard RIB, though toilets are at the marinas where you get picked up and dropped off. The larger Axopar boats do have toilet facilities.
What should we wear or bring?
Flat, non-slip shoes like trainers or deck shoes, plus warm clothes and waterproofs, since the wind-chill on board is stronger than you'd expect. Sunglasses, a cap and sun cream are worth packing on a hot day too.
Will we get wet?
There's a chance of it depending on conditions, even though the RIB is designed for as dry a ride as possible. Waterproof jackets and trousers are provided if you don't bring your own.
How long can we book the boat for?
Half day or full day charters. Go over and it's charged at £100 an hour extra.
Are there rules once we're underway?
You have to stay seated while the boat's moving and wear a life jacket throughout. No smoking or alcohol on board or on the pontoons.
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