Add Your Heading Text Here
Welcome to the Isle of Wight! In this helpful guide, we’ll delve into the various ways to reach the island by ferry, look at how to secure the best discount prices and deals – helping you choose between the various options on offer.
Getting to the Isle of Wight by Ferry
Ferries have played a vital role in connecting the Isle of Wight to the mainland for over a century. In the early years, paddle steamers were a common sight, carrying passengers across the Solent. Over time, these steamers evolved into the modern ferries we know today. There are many old photos of the paddle steamers arriving on the island with 3-5 cars squeezed onto the deck, things have certainly evolved over the years, with Wightlink now boasting Hybrid technology to fuel their latest ship across the Solent.
For decades, ferries have been the traditional mode of transport to the Isle of Wight. Two major ferry operators, Wightlink and Red Funnel, provide regular services to the island. The duration of the crossing depends on the route and departure point.
Comparing Isle of Wight Foot Passenger and Car Ferries
Foot Passenger Ferries:
Hovertravel:
- Hovertravel offers a unique and thrilling hovercraft experience between Southsea (Portsmouth) and Ryde.
- Plenty of parking in Southsea, but 15 mins walk from the mainline train station – Portsmouth Harbour
- Journey time: Just under 10 minutes.
- Arrive directly on Ryde Esplanade, on the doorstep of all major Bus routes
- Book tickets here: Hovertravel tickets.
Wightlink Fastcat:
- Wightlink provides a fast catamaran service between Portsmouth (near Gunwharf, directly in Portsmouth Harbour train station) and Ryde Pier Head.
- Walk down Ryde Pierhead (approx 10 mins) to bus station.
- Dogs allowed.
- The price of a adult return starts is around £26 during peak season.
- No need to book but advisable at peak times.
- Journey time: Approximately 22 minutes.
- Book tickets here: Wightlink fast catamaran tickets.
- If you have accessibility needs the walk down the pier is quite long, book a taxi to pick you up and take you to your destination (at time of writing the pier train was not running)
Red Funnel Red Jet Fast Ferry:
- Red Funnel’s Red Jet service offers foot passenger transportation between Southampton City Centre and West Cowes.
- Journey time: Around 25 minutes.
- Pets allowed.
- Book tickets here: Red Funnel Red Jet tickets.
- Booking advisable during busy periods.
- Top Tip: If your staying on the island for a week on longer why not book a trip as a foot passenger back to explore Southampton, with Ikea and many other leading retailer’s on your door step it makes for a fun day out!
Travelling to The Isle of Wight in a Car, as a Foot Passenger or Other Vehicle
Wightlink Ferries:
Wightlink operates ‘traditional’ ferry services from Portsmouth to Fishbourne and Lymington to Yarmouth.
Car and foot passenger services available on the Lymington – Yarmouth crossing. The mainline train station is directly opposite the Ferry Terminal at Lymington.
Portsmouth to Fishbourne crossing time: Approximately 45 minutes for passengers.
Lymington to Yarmouth crossing time: Under 40 minutes.
Book Wightlink car ferry tickets here: Wightlink car ferry tickets.
Book Wightlink foot passenger tickets here: Wightlink foot passenger tickets.
When arriving in Yarmouth you have immediate access to the main bus operator providing you easy access to the rest of the island, there is also good parking in Yarmouth if you are just staying for 1 day. There is small food shops in Yarmouth with a larger Tesco’s in Freshwater, plus a petrol station.
Fishbourne has limited parking for day trippers and it is a short walk to the bus station, Portsmouth foot travel is much easier on the Wightlink Fast cat or Hovercraft.
Top Tip: If you are driving down through the mainland to Lymington, plan a short stop in the New Forest which is right on your doorstep.
Red Funnel Vehicle Ferries:
- Red Funnel offers vehicle ferry services from Southampton to East Cowes.
- Southampton to East Cowes crossing time: Approximately 55-60 minutes for vehicles and 25 minutes for foot passengers.
- Book Red Funnel car ferry tickets here: Red Funnel car ferry tickets.
- Book Red Funnel foot passenger tickets here: Red Funnel foot passenger tickets.
- Once you arrive in East Cowes you have access to Waitrose, petrol and other smaller shops, plus direct access to onward bus travel if required.
Travelling Without a Car:
Even without a car, you can easily explore the Isle of Wight. The island has an extensive bus network, and hiring bicycles is a popular option for enjoying the scenic countryside.
Planning Your Journey – Booking Tips:
To ensure a smooth journey, it’s advisable to book your ferry or hovercraft tickets in advance, especially during peak travel periods. Check the websites of Wightlink, Red Funnel, and Hovertravel for the latest schedules, fares, and any ongoing promotions.
Save Money on Isle of Wight Ferries: Finding the Best Ferry Deals
To secure the best ferry deals to the Isle of Wight, it’s advisable to book in advance, travel early or late in the evening and take advantage of any available promotions or discounts offered by your accommodation provider. Both Wightlink and Red Funnel frequently offer special offers and discounted fares. Check their websites and social media pages for the latest deals and discounts.
If you use Facebook, search local Isle of Wight interest groups where discount codes are sometimes shared.
If you are staying in Holiday accommodation always ask the owners if they provide a ferry discount, this is often available through your accommodation provider, both campsites and hotels/B&B’s should be able to offer you these discounts. Also check the ferry providers websites for dedicated accommodation breaks with discounted ferry crossings.
It is cheaper to travel during off peak times, so very early in the morning or late at night, so try and factor this into your trip, and travelling as a foot passenger is still the most cost effective option, the Vectis bus network is very cost effective and you can get to all major towns and villages with relative ease.
Check before you book, sometimes during festival times you can find discount codes relating to the attendance of a specific event, whereby you purchase your event ticket and ferry ticket at the same time for a discounted rate.
When comparing prices between Wightlink and Red Funnel, it’s essential to consider the specific route, departure times, and any additional services included in the fare. Prices can vary depending on these factors, so it’s worth checking both operators to find the best option for your needs. And don’t forget to book quickly as demand will increase fares during the busy seasons.
Travel can be seem expensive for a relatively short trip, but planning in advance can secure you the best deals. So, get ready to embark on a memorable ferry adventure to the Isle of Wight and discover the natural beauty and captivating history that awaits you. Whether you choose the classic ferry services of Wightlink and Red Funnel or opt for the exhilarating hovercraft experience with Hovertravel, your journey to the island will be filled with excitement. Get ready to explore the enchanting Isle of Wight and create lasting memories.
Isle of Wight
Related Posts
Share this article
Facebook
Twitter
Search hotels
From cozy country homes to funky city apart….
Photo and Video Gallery
Looking for inspiration? Look through our photos and videos of the Isle of Wight and see the beautiful scenery waiting to be explored. Visit photo wall
Explore the Beaches, Rivers & Sea
Discover the pristine beauty of the Isle of Wight as you embark on a water-based adventure with our expert guides, guiding you to explore enchanting beaches, serene rivers, and picturesque coastlines – plan your next trip and uncover a new beach or coastal walk with us. Dive in!
Unleash the spirit of exploration with day trips and holiday planners helping you find things to see and do during your visit – our budget-friendly, tried-and-tested recommendations cater to families and adventure seekers alike. Check them out!
Make your Isle of Wight trip affordable and enjoyable with our Family-Friendly Fun suggestions. Get inspired with new ideas and cool ways to have a great holiday on the island, all without breaking the bank. Go now!
Find the perfect place to stay on the Isle of Wight with our top picks for accommodations and hotels. Choose from options that are not only affordable but also unique, located in inspiring spots to make your break truly special. Page Coming Soon!
Arriving By Boat, Marinas and Harbours
Experience a memorable weekend on the Isle of Wight as you arrive by boat, discovering hidden marinas, charming harbors, and secluded anchorages. With on-land expeditions and attractions within walking distance from your moorings, make your Solent crossing an unforgettable adventure. Read more!
