Folly Inn: Your Medina River Hub

For those navigating the picturesque waters of the River Medina on the Isle of Wight, the Folly Inn stands out as a premier destination, offering a wealth of amenities tailored specifically for visiting yachtsmen and boaters. Situated in a prime location, the Folly Inn provides not just a delightful culinary experience and lively entertainment but also crucial boating infrastructure that makes it an indispensable stop on any nautical itinerary.

Riverside Access: Pontoons Galore

The Folly Inn understands the needs of its maritime visitors. To facilitate easy access from the water, there are three dedicated visitor pontoons located in the Medina River, conveniently close to the inn itself. Crucially for many, one of these is a walk ashore pontoon, allowing for direct and effortless disembarkation. The remaining two pontoons are situated mid-river, offering alternative mooring options. All these visitor pontoons are managed by the Folly Berthing Master, ensuring a streamlined and organised experience for all who arrive by boat. This dedicated management means that securing a spot is handled efficiently, and assistance is readily available should you require it.

Essential Facilities for Boaters

The walk ashore pontoon at the Folly Inn is not just a place to tie up your vessel; it comes equipped with vital services. You'll find both water and electricity readily available, catering to the essential needs of modern boaters. Whether you need to top up your water tanks or power up your onboard equipment, these facilities are a significant convenience. Beyond the pontoon itself, the Folly Inn provides access to excellent onshore facilities. Showers and toilets are available 24 hours a day, offering a clean and comfortable respite after a day on the water. This round-the-clock availability is a testament to the inn's commitment to guest comfort.

Launching and Recovery: The Public Slipway

For those arriving with smaller craft or looking to launch and recover their vessels, a public slipway is conveniently located to the South of the Folly Inn. This facility is a popular choice for launching and recovering dinghies and other small craft. The inn also provides parking for users of the slipway, adding to the overall convenience. It is important for users of the slipway to be aware of potential environmental factors. A strong crosscurrent can be present on the lower end of the slipway, particularly during an ebb tide. Understanding these conditions will help ensure a safe and smooth launching or recovery process.

Additional Berthing Options

For those requiring more specialised services, a scrubbing berth is also available nearby. This facility is ideal for those needing to undertake hull maintenance or cleaning while at the Folly.

The Folly Inn Experience: More Than Just Berthing

The Folly Inn itself is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent offerings. It's particularly famous for its table dancing events, typically held on Saturday nights, providing a unique and entertaining experience for visitors. The inn boasts a well-regarded kitchen, serving delicious food in a spacious dining area that offers both indoor and outdoor seating. A variety of ales are also on offer, ensuring a satisfying refreshment for all tastes. Given its popularity, especially during the sailing season, it is highly advisable to contact the Folly Inn in advance to arrange a mooring and book a table, particularly if you are planning a visit during peak times. The inn is a favoured destination for sailing rallies, highlighting its capacity to host groups and its appeal as a central gathering point for the boating community.

Contacting the Folly Inn: Essential Information

To ensure a smooth arrival and stay, here is the essential contact information for the Folly Inn and its associated services: * Folly Waterbus: If you are travelling from East Cowes or Cowes, the Folly Waterbus can be contacted on VHF Channel 77 or by mobile at 07974 864627. This service provides a convenient link for those not arriving directly by their own vessel. * Berthing Instructions: When approaching the Folly Inn, you can call VHF Channel 72 using the call sign ‘Folly Launch’ when passing port hand marker No.10. This will allow you to receive direct berthing instructions from the Folly Launch service. * Folly Moorings: For general enquiries regarding moorings or the Folly Inn itself, you can contact Folly Moorings on the River Medina, Isle of Wight, by phone at 07884 400046.

Planning Your Visit

When planning your visit to the Folly Inn, consider the following:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are there pontoons at the Folly Inn that I can walk ashore from?A1: Yes, there is one dedicated walk ashore pontoon available for visitors at the Folly Inn. Q2: Can I get water and electricity on the pontoon?A2: The walk ashore pontoon is equipped with both water and electricity. Q3: Are there showers and toilets available?A3: Yes, showers and toilets are accessible 24 hours a day at the Folly Inn. Q4: How do I arrange a mooring at the Folly Inn?A4: You can contact Folly Moorings directly on 07884 400046 or call VHF Channel 72 with the call sign ‘Folly Launch’ when approaching port hand marker No.10 for berthing instructions. Q5: Is it possible to launch a small boat at the Folly Inn?A5: Yes, there is a public slipway to the South of the Folly Inn suitable for launching and recovering small craft. Parking is also provided. Q6: Should I book in advance?A6: It is highly recommended to book your mooring and a table at the Folly Inn in advance, especially during the busy sailing season and if you are part of a rally, to avoid disappointment. The Folly Inn truly offers a comprehensive package for the discerning boater, combining excellent riverside access and facilities with a welcoming and entertaining atmosphere. It is a must-visit destination for anyone cruising the waters of the Isle of Wight.

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