New Day Trip Ideas and Short Break Experiences

Ideal for day trips and short stays in the city, Visit Southampton has picked some of the best new on-the-water additions to its summer 2021 offering including:

Sail a Piece of History on a Two-Day Course for Novice Sailors

This summer, novice sailors can sail a piece of history aboard the beautifully restored traditional, wooden gaff cutter, the Golden Vanity – which was originally built in 1908 as a yacht for marine artist Arthur Briscoe. Under the direction of the onboard skipper and mate, First Class Sailing’s two-night Gaff Rig Sailing Weekend Course offers a hands-on introduction to traditional sailing. Up to six participants become the working crew for a fun weekend sailing in and around the Solent, with several stopovers including Beaulieu, Cowes and Yarmouth. Weekend prices during July and August cost £497 per person including tuition, onboard accommodation and food. www.firstclasssailing.com Tel: 0203 006 3717

Get Paddleboard Ready with an Intro to Sup on the River Itchen

Located beside Southampton’s river Itchen, Active Nation’s Woodmill Activity Centre is launching an Intro to Paddleboarding course this summer. The two-hour instructor-led course introduces participants to the skills required to get up on a board and out on the water. From learning how to carry the board and paddle, paddling technique, turns, self-rescue, and the basics of stance – progressing from kneeling to standing – all the basics are covered. The course runs throughout the summer and costs £35 per person including all the kit, tuition and an end-of-course certificate. For more information and to book activities contact www.woodmill.co.uk

All steamed up aboard SS Shieldhall

A member of the National Historic Fleet, the SS Shieldhall offers on-the-water excursions to experience the golden age of steam. As well as seeing the impressive engine room with its original steam engines at work, visitors can join the captain on the bridge and admire the traditional instruments and gleaming brass work. Recommencing 26 June, SS Shieldhall will offer regular summer excursions taking in the sights of Southampton Water, the Solent and beyond, as well as courses and private charters. Highlights this year include a special anniversary cruise celebrating 200 years of ‘Steam in the Solent’. Prices from Adults £36.50, Children £13.00, Family £86.00. A registered charity, the vessel also hosts an annual free open day, which this year will take place on Saturday 11 September. For more information: http://www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk

STAY: Centrally located beside a quiet leafy park yet close to the marina and Oxford street – lined with restaurants and bars – room2 is Southampton’s most stylish self-catering hometel. A two night stay in a Master Loft room which sleeps four this August costs from £306 Master Loft. An ideal family space it features a fully equipped kitchenette with dishwasher, large table, sofa and TV. www.room2.com

For news and inspiration about what’s on and what to do in the city www.visitsouthampton.co.uk

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