Locking

Click here to view Lock Times for Port Solent

Light sequence

• Red Lights - Vessels shall not proceed. Vessels inbound to the lock should heave to or give way to outbound vessels.
• Green Lights - Vessels may proceed.
• Flashing Orange Light - Indicates Free Flow is operating.

Inbound

• On arrival at our Calling Point on pile 'Green 78' call 'Port Solent' on VHF channel 80 and request a lock in
• During peak periods we operate a number system and staff will mark your position in the queue.
• Monitor channel 80 and follow instructions
• You will be asked to enter the lock on the Green Light or when you hear your 'queue' number called
• Enter the lock with fenders on both sides and go as far forward as possible or as directed by staff
• You will be given berthing instructions by the lockmaster
• When secure in the lock, switch off your engine and turn your radar off

Outbound

FREE FLOW: as the tide reaches the marina basin level - both sets of lock gates are opened. During Neap tides and extreme Spring High Tides Free Flow may not operate.

• When you want to leave the marina call Port Solent on VHF channel 80
• If the lock is available you will be asked to slip your berth and proceed to the main fairway
• Enter the lock on the Green light only and listen to instructions from the lock master
• In the lock secure your boat alongside the pontoon as far forward as possible
• The lockmaster may ask you for a return date
• If you stayed overnight please return any access fobs during the locking process
• During peak times you will be given a number. Remain on your berth, monitoring VHF channel 80.
• When the lock is available your number will be called
• In order to speed up the lock process, we would prefer visitors not to pay in the lock outbound.
• An orange flashing light indicates Free Flow is operating

• Red and Green traffic lights control access through the lock
• Call up the lockmaster on VHF channel 80 to log arrival/departure
• Tidal flow may be faster then expected whilst passing through the lock
• FOR SAFETY REASONS IT IS FORBIDDEN TO STOP IN THE LOCK DURING FREE FLOW