For many of us Bembridge harbour has always been a little restrictive for many reasons e.g. draft, tide times and low water but that all looks set to change as exciting new developments are about to take place.
Bembridge harbour has been bought by Fiona and Malcolm Thorpe and hopefully their application for a dredging license will enable them to commence dredging late April/May and any unfinished dredging will be continued in the autumn dredged to an average of 2 metres below mlws. New pontoons have been ordered to extend the duver pontoon which will provide additional visitors moorings.
Toilets and showers have had a temporary refurbishment and over the next winter plans are in hand for an extension/rebuild. At the southern end of fishermans wharf a new café has recently opened serving fresh locally caught fish, including bass, lobster the café is called ‘overboard’ which offers breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, and you can bring your own wine, they are also offering all CMBHA members 10% discount off food on presentation of your up to date card. Later this summer further down the pontoon a new seafood shop will be opening, selling fresh fish caught locally.
There is so much to do in Bembridge and only a short sail or motor from Chichester.
Bembridge is so unspoiled and there is nothing better than watching the sun set over St Helens. There are two lovely villages Bembridge and St Helens all just a short walk away which offer many shops and restaurants along with local crafts.
If you are looking to eat out close by to the marina why no get the water taxi (available 4 hrs either side of high tide and take a trip to The Pilot Inn the pub that looks like a boat. They offer delicious home cooking at reasonable prices and a very reasonably priced wine list. They kindly offer CMBHA berthholders 10% discount off food on presentation of your card.
Also nearby you have the brading haven yacht club, and Bembridge sailing club which both offer fine food and a well stocked bar.
Places to Visit
St Helens, just a short walk up the hill from the marina, is very much a traditional english village centered round the second largest village green in the country. You will find all the facilities including a newsagent, post office three restaurants and a pub as well as many scenic walks. Many events take place here including this year, a celebration for the queens jubilee and their annual carnival day held on august bank holiday.
In Bembridge itself at the other side of the harbour, you can either walk or get the water taxi over to the beach and walk up the hill to the town. You will find a supermarket, fishmonger, fantastic delicatessen (featured on the hungry sailor) and many gift shops.
