Cowes Fireworks Aug 6th

NautiSeacrets · 27 July 2010, 16:01

Despite having had a variety of boats, never actually managed to get to this - but this year looks a distinct possibility on the Rib.

Is it worthwhile?

What's the general consensus?

Possibly have a "few" screaming 14 year old girls to show the sights.

Hightower · 27 July 2010, 16:53

The fireworks are definitely very rewarding and very worthwhile seeing. But be advised the Solent is a bloody dangerous place, as every man and his boat hit the water to see the spectacular. Even though there are restrictions on top speed, there's rarely a year goes by without someone having an accident.

Mbryant · 27 July 2010, 17:31

http://www.southamptonvts.co.uk/nmariners.htm

The top link explains the restrictions this year, worth a read if you are planning the trip.

C2 RIBS · 27 July 2010, 17:57

Definitely worth a look but please remember the VTS notice and speed restrictions, it can be mad out there and have seen many RIBs/Boats without lights travelling at speed or following someone with lights. Police, coastguard, RNLI, Harbour Masters and rescue groups all out there to help and keep some order.

CJL · 27 July 2010, 22:28

Very worthwhile.

The trip back is downright dangerous! Wait till the muppets set off home and then give em at least 20mins before you set off back.

Check your nav lights BEFORE you go and then leave them on all evening.

Chris

sarahscottiedog · 28 July 2010, 05:12

Excellent evenings entertainment, however journey back is always a concen. Need to get to Cowes early to get any hope of a half decent ancorage. Best tip I can give for the return trip is to find a LARGE gin palace and stay behind in its wake a sensible distance behind. At least this make sure your path ahead is clear, and keep EVERYONES eyes in your boat wide open for lunatics as there are MANY MANY of them out there !! Have a great evening

biffer · 28 July 2010, 08:35

if it's a nice evening duck into osborne bay after the fireworks and ave a cuppa, you can watch all the idiots at your leisure, we fell asleep in there one year and woke up about 3.30 in the morning

NautiSeacrets · 28 July 2010, 09:43

Excellent advice - the speed restrictions are right up Southampton Water, which I didn't realise, thought it would be more localised restrictions in the Solent area.

Where are the fireworks fired from? and therefore where is a good place to watch from............?

Like the idea of Osbourne waiting for the rush to pass too.

Zippy · 28 July 2010, 09:58

Quote:

Originally Posted by biffer

if it's a nice evening duck into osborne bay after the fireworks and ave a cuppa, you can watch all the idiots at your leisure, we fell asleep in there one year and woke up about 3.30 in the morning

sounds like we could have a little gathering there! we have thought about that too. it it worth watching from Osborne bay area???

usually we anchor alongside the front at Guarard point but maybe osborne is worth while???

they go up in the air afterall so guess its the same wherever you see it?

biffer · 28 July 2010, 11:37

anywhere along that side from the breakwater (east cowes) into osborne is good, anyone leaving for pompey goes straight across so won't bother you and everybody else is in a banger race

Ian M · 28 July 2010, 12:27

Agree with all that has been said, but, if you can anchor within a reasonable distance from the launching barge (by getting there early) the display is really 'in ya face'

Anyway, what's wrong with you all, we've got toobs ain't we, bounce off anything that gets in the way

Steve_B · 28 July 2010, 12:40

We have been over for at least the last 4 years and it is a very social and enjoyable evening.
As has been said, we tend to not rush away as soon as they finish, leave it about 15/20 mins and then take it easy. We have always lauched and returned to Lymington, which seems a lot quieter anyway.

Was thinking of putting on a trip using the Parker from Lymington to Cowes for the fireworks, but dont know if there would be enough demand to make it viable.

Steve

Ian M · 28 July 2010, 12:45

Steve, that's my usual agenda. Keep us posted if you are going from Lymington, I would love a quick look over the Parker.

Poly · 28 July 2010, 15:26

So if everyone waits 15-20 minutes before heading back - does that not just delay the "jam"?

Steve_B · 28 July 2010, 16:28

No, the minority do this, the majority are on the throttle as the last firework explodes

PeterM · 28 July 2010, 22:09

Quote:

Originally Posted by 250kts

We have been over for at least the last 4 years and it is a very social and enjoyable evening.
As has been said, we tend to not rush away as soon as they finish, leave it about 15/20 mins and then take it easy. We have always lauched and returned to Lymington, which seems a lot quieter anyway.

Was thinking of putting on a trip using the Parker from Lymington to Cowes for the fireworks, but dont know if there would be enough demand to make it viable.

Steve

A Ribnet charter ????

Steve_B · 28 July 2010, 22:28

Open to anyone. It would be a commercial trip, I have about 6 seats filled with friends from work, but really need it to be full to be viable.

Basic plan would be 1745 departure from Lymington, a quick blast out to the Needles, up to Cowes for the Red Arrows display at 1900 and then those that want to go ashore for an hour can be dropped off, otherwise we can chill out on board with music and a light picnic that anyone wants to bring with them.
Back at Lymington for about 1040

Tiffy · 28 July 2010, 22:33

Quote:

Originally Posted by CJL

Very worthwhile.

The trip back is downright dangerous! Wait till the muppets set off home and then give em at least 20mins before you set off back.

Check your nav lights BEFORE you go and then leave them on all evening.

Chris

The Venturers 9.5 M Diesel Water Jet Rescue Rib will be on duty
so never fear help will be on hand .Although I agree its murder out there
after the finish of the fire works ; best wait until the first rush has
got back to a safe Haven. Remember in the Solent you can call Coast Guard
direct on 67 for routine ;but 16 for any emergency.
Have a safe passage
Tiffy

Steve_B · 30 July 2010, 20:47

We have already sold out our Cowes Fireworks trip and almost have enough to consider chartering a second RIB. Details as before Lymington - Cowes and return.
Please give me a shout if you would like any seats.

Ian see you on the pontoons by the RNLI station, hoping to be ther for about 1730.

Steve

Zippy · 02 August 2010, 13:24

did i read somewhere the red arrows were doing a display earlier in the evening or am i talking complete rubbish??