A. Before embarking on this route it’s important to check tide times and know where you are at which point of the tide. Also check for weather conditions as windy conditions will have a bearing on timings and flow.

B. Launch from Swanwick Slipway and turn right beyond the end of the shipyard, passing the Jolly Sailor Inn.

C. As you round the corner be ready for strong tidal currents when the tide is filling.

D. Pass under the railway bridge, where you may spot the remains of old Thames Barges on your left.

E. Paddle under the M27. With Manor Farm Country Park on your left, keep an eye out for the remains of the 1400’s warship HMS Grace Dieu, which can be seen at low tide.

E. Round the next corner, rectangular shapes cut into the river bank are the remnants of where the boats for the D Day landings were stationed.

F. Continue through the tranquil countryside until the river splits. The left fork takes you up to the picturesque village of Botley, or choose the right fork for a shorter paddle to the Horse and Jockey Pub at Curbridge.

G. Whichever route you choose, you can explore at your leisure before retracing your journey back to your start point.

H. Going downstream from Swanwick slipway, there is a long straight leading to Mercury Marina, this is on the site of TS Mercury a Sea Scout school that was decommissioned in the late 60s. You may also spot in the water an observation tower from a First World War battleship.

I. Hamble Le Rice is the yachting home, with good landing and facilities. It is also known for being an aircraft training centre during the Second World War.

J. On the right you can now see the life raft launching pier of Warsash Maritime College, now part of Solent University; here merchant sailors from around the world are trained.

K. Beyond this is the river mouth and the exit out into Southampton Water. Directly opposite you can see Calshot Activity Centre before you turn and return to Swanwick.