Daylight robbery

Bollyfish · 20 April 2005, 13:44

Hello all,

Our maiden voyage this year was to Bembridge harbour. Very nice - stopped, had lunch and then headed to the nearest 'facilities' to use the loo and have a coffee before heading back to Portsmouth.

Made the mistake of stopping at 'Duver marina'. Their office is at the top of the pontoon, so we had no choice but to pop in, say we were just staying for a coffee and paid the princely sum of £6 (minimum charge apparently). Subsequently found some toilets (OK so far), but no coffee shop or anything else for that matter.

Ten minutes later we were back on the water, somewhat disgruntled at being charged £6 for a 10 minute visit.

We know boating is expensive, but THAT was ridiculous. Any thoughts please, or is this par for the course???

Still - a glass of red at the lightship cheered us up afterwards!

MeMe · 20 April 2005, 14:10

...arsed, I'd write to the head honch (give them a quick call to find out his name and title) advising him or her of the days events - in the nicest possible way of course. Make sure you add this phrase "I very much look forward to receiving your thoughts on this matter" and the fact that you are not chasing the £6.00, just comments regarding the same.

I would hope they would do you the curtesy of responding with the advise that you can visit again without cost. If so, keep this letter handy and produce it next time you visit.

Other than that, do as most and ingnore the office and plead ignorance or empty pockets if asked

Biggles · 20 April 2005, 14:25

At Bembridge we just land on the sand on the left hand side as you enter the harbour proper. Never been charged and if I was asked for £6 I would just sail off.

We only stay at Bembridge for 10 Mins or so and use the cafe in the wooden hut that faces on to the beach. Service is very slow though.

You could also use the Pub thats one street back but that means losing sight of your boat.

In that area we have also started to use Culver Bay but that is a wet landing.

Biggles · 20 April 2005, 14:27

Bollyfish,

We are out in that area most weekends on the High Tide. If you want to PM me for my mobile number I can send that to you.

As a rule we get out one hour before high tide and go back in 2 hours after high tide.

Your welcome along if that fits in with your timings.

Regards Nick R.

Austen · 20 April 2005, 14:29

Quote:

ingnore the office and plead ignorance or empty pockets if asked

Never done that before!