Sleep@Sea Keyhaven

An off-grid stay with a refreshing difference in two vintage 1970s sailing yachts, furnished in retro style and moored in a secluded Hampshire lagoon.
 
If you're going to Sleep@Sea, choosing the right location and atmosphere is vital.   
 
Ideally, you'd find a tranquil space on an unspoilt coastline, with a soothing backdrop of epic sunsets, star-sprinkled skies, historic sites, and abundant wildlife.
 
All this is exactly what you can expect from Turnstone and Shelduck in Keyhaven, two off-grid vintage sailing yachts moored in a blissfully remote lagoon by the New Forest National Park, and close to the foodie haven of Milford-on-Sea.
 
Boasting majestic views of Henry VIII's ancient fortress, Hurst Castle, Keyhaven Marshes is also a designated Area of Special Scientific Interest that thrives with nature and bird life.
 
Even your journey to the retro-styled yachts is something special... since they can only be accessed via timetabled ferry, or a mile-long walk along Hurst spit.
 
And once you've reached the private wooden pontoon on which the yachts are moored, you may feel as though you've entered a 1970s time capsule. Resembling quirky floating caravans, the cosy onboard accommodation is ideal for up to eight guests, with Turnstone and Shelduck each sleeping two adults and two children.   
 
Whichever you choose, you'll have cosy seating to relax on, with colourful throws and soft cushions, and there's a cheerful galley that comes equipped a double cooking plate, and a collection of retro saucepans.
 
This is off-grid, back-to-basics living, so your seafaring retreats are free of distracting Wi-Fi, and there are also no traditional bath or shower facilities on board (why not bathe in the sea for a refreshing natural soak, instead?)   
 
Yet you'll find that each of those basics have been carefully thought about, for bundles of simple comfort - warm bedding, a kettle, a waterless ‘loo with a view' on your private, shared pontoon, and a supply of cold running water.
 
There's also a hearty porridge oats for breakfast, generous stocks of tea and coffee, and a coolbox pre-loaded with ice blocks, so you can chill that wine immediately!
 
Enjoy a glass over a lively game of Scrabble or cards, or use the binoculars to spot the comings and goings of the local bird-and-sea life. If you've brought your kayaks or paddle boards with you, you can explore the sparkling lagoon and its many creeks to your hearts content...  
 
...or even paddle up to the local pub for a tasty lunch! Otherwise, simply head up to the deck with a good book, and soak up the sunshine.
 
You can also visit Hurst Castle, which is a perfect excuse to turn back time even further. Wander through the 16th century dungeons and gun ramparts, before stopping for coffee at the castle café, or indulging in a scenic seafront picnic.

Things to note
 
Check in from 2pm - 4pm, check out by 11am. Access to and from the yachts is via ferry and floating wooden pontoon, so for safety reasons they are not suitable for non-swimmers, babies, or children under 2 years. Please pack as you would for a traditional camping holiday - light and smart, and with plenty of warm clothes! There is no Wi-Fi on either boat.