The Solent was powered by twin 110 bhp Gardner 6LX diesel engines which gave the boat a top speed of 9.5 knots (17.6 km/h; 10.9 mph).

There were twin spade rudders installed which were coupled to Mathway manual steering gear.

[3] Apart from the steel hull, the Solent-class differed from the Oakley-class in its self-righting mechanism.

The Oakley used a water ballast system, while the Solent class was self-righting as a result of its watertight superstructure.

Sliding doors provide access to the forward end of the wheelhouse on each side.