Harbour Tours

The water at Lee-on-the-Solent has proper character, and the best way to experience it is from the deck of one of these harbour tours. You'll motor out into the Solent itself, where the shipping lanes are genuinely busy - container ships, tankers, the occasional naval vessel if you time it right. The guides know what they're talking about, which makes all the difference when you're trying to spot something interesting on the horizon.

It's the sort of thing that works brilliantly for families with restless kids, and walkers who fancy a break from solid ground. If you're into maritime history or just enjoy being on the water, you'll find plenty to occupy an hour or two. The views back towards the coastline are decent, especially on a clear day when you can pick out the Isle of Wight properly.

Bring a jumper even in summer - the wind's stronger out on the water than you'd expect from shore. The tours operate most days in season, though you'll want to check ahead for exact times and pricing, as these details shift around.

If you're staying at Kingfisher Caravan Park just down the road, or based further out at Hayling Island Holiday Park, the harbour tours make a solid half-day addition to your itinerary. They're straightforward to get to and beat another afternoon wandering the seafront shops.