Cowes Harbour (GBCOW) — marine weather & port guide
Cowes Harbour is a port in United Kingdom at 50°46.0′N 1°18.0′W. Today (Aug 3): S wind 1–4 kn, waves 0.6–0.8 m, from the ECMWF IFS run 2026-08-03 12z. The live chart on this page shows current conditions and plans weather-optimized departures from this harbor.
Port facts (NGA World Port Index)| Position | 50°46.0′N 1°18.0′W |
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| UN/LOCODE | GBCOW |
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| Harbor size | Small |
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| Harbor type | River natural harbor |
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| Shelter | Good |
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| Channel depth | 5 m |
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| Anchorage depth | 17 m |
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| Tide range | 3 m |
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| Pilotage | Compulsory |
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| Time zone | Europe/London |
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10-day marine forecast — Cowes Harbour
| Date | Wind | Gusts | Waves |
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| S 1–4 kn | 5 kn | 0.6–0.8 m |
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| SW 8–15 kn | 19 kn | 0.6–1.1 m |
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| WSW 15–21 kn | 28 kn | 1.2–1.6 m |
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| WNW 12–16 kn | 22 kn | 0.8–1.3 m |
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| NW 5–9 kn | 13 kn | 0.3–0.7 m |
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| ESE 3–7 kn | 9 kn | 0.2–0.3 m |
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| WSW 10–14 kn | 18 kn | 0.3–0.7 m |
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| WNW 10–10 kn | 17 kn | 0.7–0.7 m |
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| E 11–11 kn | 15 kn | 0.5–0.5 m |
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| ENE 8–8 kn | 11 kn | 0.4–0.4 m |
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Forecast from the ECMWF IFS model run , waves from ECMWF WAM. Updated with each model cycle; the live chart below recalculates for your departure time and vessel.
Frequently asked
How is the weather at Cowes Harbour right now?
As of the ECMWF IFS run 2026-08-03 12z: S wind 1–4 kn, waves 0.6–0.8 m. The 10-day outlook is in the forecast table on this page and updates with each model cycle.
How big is the harbor at Cowes Harbour?
Cowes Harbour is classed as a small harbor (river natural harbor), with good shelter in the NGA World Port Index.
How deep is the approach to Cowes Harbour?
Per the NGA World Port Index, the entrance channel carries about 5 m and anchorage depths run about 17 m. Verify against current official charts before entry.
What restricts entry to Cowes Harbour?
Entry is affected by tidal windows, heavy swell, overhead clearance limits. Check the live forecast on this page and official notices before approach.