Community Engagement: Accessible Boating Trip with Wetwheels Hamble and Wetwheels Solent

For many wheelchair users, access to the sea and the freedom, excitement, and wellbeing it brings, can feel out of reach. Wetwheels Hamble and Wetwheels Solent have changed all that, offering fully accessible powerboat experiences designed so that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy the water safely, confidently, and without barriers.

At the heart of Wetwheels is a simple but powerful idea: that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the sea, not as a spectator, but as an active participant.

Wetwheels vessels are purpose-built with accessibility at their core. They are designed to accommodate both manual and powered wheelchairs, with level boarding systems and secure wheelchair positions onboard. This means that guests can remain in their own chairs throughout the experience, maintaining comfort, independence, and dignity. The design of the boats ensures that wheelchair users are not separated or limited in where they can be positioned. Instead, they are fully integrated into experience alongside family members, carers, and other participants.

The layout allows for clear sight lines, easy communication, and a shared sense of being part of the journey. Highly trained crews and volunteers are always on hand to provide support where needed, ensuring that each trip is safe, relaxed, and tailored to individual requirements.

One of the most unique aspects of a Wetwheels experience is that guests are not simply passengers; they are actively involved. On Full Experience trips, participants are invited to take the helm and drive the boat under the supervision of the qualified skipper of course.

For many wheelchair users, this is a rare and empowering opportunity. The chance to steer a powerboat across open water can be transformative, building confidence and creating a strong sense of achievement.

Guests are encouraged to engage with the journey in whatever way suits them, whether that’s asking questions, learning about the local area, or simply enjoying the sensory experience of being on the water.

For those who may feel uncertain or are trying something new, Wetwheels offers shorter taster trips. These sessions provide a gentle introduction to being on the water in a supportive and welcoming environment.

Taster trips are ideal for individuals who may be unsure about how they will feel on a boat, or for those who want to build confidence before taking part in a longer experience. They offer all the same levels of accessibility and support, just in a shorter format.

Working out of our Hamble and Portsmouth bases, Wetwheels also offers a variety of trip types to suit different interests and abilities. Accessible fishing trips provide a relaxing and engaging way to enjoy time on the water, with equipment and support available to ensure everyone can take part. For those looking for a more immersive experience, half or full day hire is available. This allows groups, families, or organisations to create a bespoke day on the water, tailored to their interests. Whether it’s exploring the Solent, visiting coastal landmarks, or simply enjoying time together at sea, the flexibility of full-day hire ensures a memorable experience.

For All Ages and Abilities Wetwheels Hamble and Wetwheels Solent welcome both young and older wheelchair users, recognising that the benefits of being on the water are not limited by age. For younger participants, trips can be exciting, confidence-building adventures. For older individuals, particularly those with a maritime background, the experience can be deeply meaningful, offering opportunities for reminiscence and reconnection.

The inclusive nature of Wetwheels ensures that everyone, regardless of age or ability, can take part and feel valued. One of the most powerful aspects of Wetwheels is its ability to bring families together. Too often, wheelchair users and their families face barriers that prevent them from participating in activities as a group. Wetwheels remove those barriers, creating an environment where “everyone can share the same experience together.”

Families can enjoy the seaside by side, without anyone feeling excluded or left behind. This shared experience not only creates lasting memories but strengthens relationships and supports overall wellbeing. Wetwheels experiences can have a lasting impact. Participants often report increased confidence, improved mood, and a sense of independence. Being on the water offers a unique combination of relaxation and stimulation, with the sights, sounds, and movement of the sea providing both calm and excitement.

The Community Health Engagement Officer, Emily, went out in April to join the Wetwheels team on a taster trip. The experience lasted around 1 hour in total.

“The team at Wetwheels Hamble CIC were excellent. A friendly welcome awaits, where you will be given a life jacket and fully supported with getting all safety equipment on before you board the boat. If you are a wheelchair user the team will assist with getting all wheelchairs on and off the boat first. You are able to stay in your wheelchair for the duration of the trip. The wheelchairs are secured using secure safety belts to keep the wheelchair secure and in place whilst the boat is in motion. They also cater for walkers with seats too!

It is clear that safety is a top priority for team Wetwheels and your safety and happiness is their priority whilst on board. The experience itself is very enjoyable, and accessible for all ages whether young or old. I should imagine this experience is far more enjoyable on a warm, sunny day! It was unfortunately slightly overcast and began to drizzle whilst I was on board, but that did not dampen the fun and high spirits of the team or the other people on board.

I’d highly recommend this trip!”