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What is the ‘Solent Chop’ and how might this impact your boat purchasing decision?

The Wolf Rock Boat Company is dedicated to providing boaters with the perfect RIB for all weather conditions, the safety of all passengers is paramount and selecting the right boat based on your local water may have an impact on your purchasing decision. In this article we focus on the infamous ‘Solent Chop’ and what boaters should be aware of, and more importantly, which boats might be a sensible choice for the South Coast waters.


So, what is the Solent Chop?

This is a series of sharp and short waves generated in the Solent strait area between the Isle of Wight and Hampshire. With many considerations including tide, wind and water to prepare for, this makes this stretch of water challenging for navigation.


Boats and Ribs for sale for the Solent
Why is it important to consider your predominant boating location?

For over a decade, The Wolf Rock Boat Company has been delivering expert advice to our nationwide customers to ensure they invest in the right boat for their exact requirements. Our highly knowledgeable team are all passionate boaters and are able to point you in the right direction among our wide range of top-quality RIBs and boats for sale. 


Every regional location can have different boating requirements. For example, if you are looking to pootle up and down a river and enjoy family time, this may mean you look for a different type of boat to one which maybe venturing offshore in the winter, perhaps. Key considerations include the length of the vessel, the draft, the type of boat (RIB or GRP), engine type and size and so much more!


What boats should I consider for the Solent?

Due to the short, sharp chop coupled with the ever-changing weather and wind speeds & direction, selecting a slightly longer boat length can be preferable for this stretch of water. Many opt for a slightly longer boat length, often between 6.5 and 8 metres. This typically selected boat length will mean a smoother ride in rougher waters and greater safety for your passengers.


BRIG Ribs for sale

For those seeking a touch of luxury, the BRIG Eagle 8 offers the ultimate blend of performance  and practicality. The award-winning Eagle 8 delivers you and your family the opportunity to own, arguably the ultimate day boat - with a world-class hull design and safety features as standard, ample seating and storage options, a day heads, groundbreaking technology and fitted with the impeccably reliable Suzuki 350hp Duo prop outboard, this vessel delivers the perfect balance for adventures on the water. 

The 8 metre boat length is perfect for comfort and style during the calmer days at sea, while also being prepared for the notorious Solent chop if required! For many years, the Eagle 8 has been a RIB buyers favourite as a great value option to get your family and friends on the water in the beautiful Solent waters.


If you are looking for something a bit more compact, the BRIG Eagle 6.7 is an exceptional choice for boaters navigating the Solent chop. Its deep ‘V’ GRP hull design provides stability and smooth handling even in rough conditions, ensuring a comfortable ride for passengers. With a maximum capacity of 11 people, this versatile boat offers ample space for friends and family to enjoy the water together. The Eagle 6.7 also comes equipped with high-quality materials and features, such as ergonomic seating and ample storage space, making it a practical and reliable option for those seeking either adventure or a little bit of luxury in the Solent.



IRON Ribs for sale

When it comes to navigating rough waters, the IRON 767 stands out as a great choice. This robust boat boasts exceptional stability and handling, making it well-suited for challenging sea conditions like the Solent. The multi-award winning hull by the Ironbrothers (in collaboration with Mannerfelt Design Team) one of the most respected design studios in the global marine industry. 


Thanks to IRON’s unique design, with a bold and stealth looking fender (rubbing straight) the complete IRON range makes heads turn. It’s not until you are in the water in this breathtaking model that you truly value the astounding manoeuvrability, and comfort when being used in all types of water - from a slow and steady trip under 10 knots to a blast at 50 knots, this boat unquestionably will put a smile on your face and impress everyone on board. 


Safety is always a key consideration and IRON have innovatively in-built high sides on the vessel to ensure everyone remains safe on board, everyone remains dry from choppy seas and it will mean you have additional walk-around room on board the boat for manoeuvrability and/or passengers.


Used IRON Ribs for sale

If you're looking for a great deal on a quality RIB, be sure to check out our selection of used boats such as this Ex demo Iron 827 T-Top. These lightly used models offer excellent value for money without compromising on performance or reliability. With our range of RIBs for sale, Solent boaters can find the perfect craft to conquer the waves with confidence.


At The Wolf Rock Boat Company, we understand the importance of selecting the right RIB for your boating adventures. Whether you're a seasoned boater looking for a dependable RIB or a first-time buyer in search of a reliable and versatile vessel, our experienced and helpful sales team is here to help you find the perfect match. Contact us today to explore our range of RIBs for sale and discover the ultimate boating experience on the Solent.



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