LSC CRUISER RALLY 16th to 19th May NEWPORT HARBOUR RALLY Report and Photos
Published 01:00 on 20 May 2026
NEWSLETTER ARTICLE FIRST CRUISER RALLY OF THE SEASON
What a great start to the Cruiser Rally season with 8 boats setting off from Chichester Harbour to berth overnight on the Folly Walk-Ashore Pontoon, where pre-dinner drinks were had before a friendly catch up and a hearty meal in the famous Folly Inn Pub.
The following morning saw 8 boats slowly coast their way down the Medina River and on towards the heart of the Island for a 2-night planned stay at the highly tidal Newport Harbour with all its history.
As the tide slowly ebbed and members boats took the ground to settle in for a night of good company and drinks, it was becoming clear that the weather was starting to change, and now strong wind was being forecast for the return journey on the Tuesday.
All club boats decided it would be best to leave a day early, even though they would still face challenging conditions on the return leg.
Now, although Newport Harbour is a very special place, it has always proven challenging for club boats on tidal moorings to get back on one tide, without getting stuck in the mudso to speak. Well, I am no saying that didn't happen, but it was a bit of a close call.
Thanks must be given to all members who once again supported the Club Cruiser Rally, and especially Brian & Roz for their fantastic job in hosting the rally, with their famous "Pimm's on the Pontoon" which went down very wellI'm told.
As you read this article, the June - Poole Cruiser Rally will be on their way across Christchurch Bay, and the July Rally to the Beaulieu River will be closing for bookings.
(Last booking date for this rally is the 16th April)
Hosts for this event are Roz & Brian Mason who will be looking to hold Pimm's on the Folly Pontoon.
The first LSC Rally of the season and we are off on the relatively short sail to the ancient port of Newport Harbour, an ideal base for exploring England's biggest island.
There is something special about coasting up the 4-mile inland stretch of the River Medina under sail, passing the traditional boat house of the NRC founded in 1863 and onwards to the visitors' pontoons close to the centre of Newport County town.
A total of 12 berths have been booked at Newport Harbour, and at the Folly Pontoon (9 x walk-ashore/ 3 x mid-river).
Not able to get any time off work, then while not join us for the weekend only for drinks on the pontoon and a meal in company at the Folly Inn.
As with all rallies you have the option to shorten or lengthen your stay.
The rally programme is as follows:
- Saturday 16th May to Sunday 17th May The Folly Pontoon, River Medina Cowes.
Tide Chichester HW 11.40 BST
Depending on how early you book, you will have the choice of booking on the Walk-ashore Pontoon (first 9 booked boats) or the Mid-River Pontoon leaving for Newport Harbour on the incoming tide on the Sunday 17th May.
The Folly Pontoons are situated 20 minutes from the entrance of the river Medina providingaccess at all states of the tide. This quieter stretch of the river Medina is designated as a 'Site of Special Scientific Interest' (SSSI) and there are some beautiful walks to be had.
There will be drinks on the pontoon from 6.00pm and dining arrangements have been made at the Folly Inn for 7.00pm.
- Sunday 17th May to Tuesday 19th May Newport Harbour (leaving for home on Tuesday 19th May)
Newport Harbour (which is a drying harbour) is a secure haven in all weathers and seasons and an ideal base for the island from where you can explore unspoilt countryside, visit the famous Carisbrook Castle and with easy access to the central bus station travel all over the island.
The visitors' pontoons have water and electricity available (there will be a requirement to raft2 deep) and on the quayside there are toilets and showers.
There will be drinks on the pontoon at 6.00pm, although no dining arrangements have been made for the Sunday evening, giving skippers the flexibility to make their own arrangements.
Dining arrangements have been organised for Monday 18th May (should you wish to join us) at The Bargeman PH Newport at 7.00pm.
Please note: that there will be a requirement to raft on the Folly and Newport Harbourpontoons.
To avoid disappointment book early by completing the booking form below.
Closing date for completed booking form is the 16 April (no further bookings will be accepted after this date)
Further details regarding the rally will be E Mailed out to those who have completed the booking form nearer the time.
Any queries, please contact the rally organisers Trevor & Sharon Holloway :rally@langstonesc.org.uk
