Ferries to Wight
Select ‘Isle of Wight' to compare the ferries to Wight
Ferries to the Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight, located in the English Channel, lies approximately 6 miles off the southern coast of the UK (Hampshire) and is separated from the mainland by The Solent.
On this page, you’ll find a comprehensive overview of the various ferry routes to and from the Isle of Wight, departing from Portsmouth, Southampton, and other key English ports.
Map: ferries to Wight from the UK mainland.
About the crossings to Wight
Ferry Services to the Isle of Wight
Getting to the Isle of Wight is easy, thanks to frequent ferry connections from the English mainland. Here’s a simple guide to the main routes and operators:
1. Wightlink Ferries
Portsmouth to Fishbourne:
- Time: 45 minutes.
- Details: A reliable ferry for vehicles and passengers.
Lymington to Yarmouth:
- Time: 40 minutes.
- Details: Great for cars and passengers travelling from the New Forest area.
Portsmouth Harbour to Ryde Pier Head:
- Time: 22 minutes.
- Details: A fast catamaran service for foot passengers.
2. Red Funnel Ferries
Southampton to East Cowes:
- Time: 1 hour.
- Details: A ferry for vehicles and passengers with scenic views.
Southampton to West Cowes (Red Jet):
- Time: 25 minutes.
- Details: A high-speed catamaran for foot passengers.
3. Hovertravel
- Southsea (Portsmouth) to Ryde:
- Time: 10 minutes.
- Details: The world’s only year-round hovercraft, exclusively for foot passengers.
Choose the Best Route for You
Ferries depart from Portsmouth, Southampton, Lymington, and Southsea, offering options for travellers with vehicles or on foot. These services are ideal for both tourists and commuters, making travel to the Isle of Wight simple and convenient.
Ferries and Hovercraft to the Isle of Wight
Travelling to the Isle of Wight by ferry or hovercraft is quick and convenient, with several routes crossing The Solent. The crossings take 20 to 45 minutes to cover the 10 km distance between the island and the mainland.
Travel Options
Fast Ferry for Foot Passengers:
- The Portsmouth to Ryde route is the fastest option, with a high-speed catamaran exclusively for foot passengers.
Ferries for Cars and Passengers:
- Portsmouth to Fishbourne: A popular route for those bringing vehicles.
- Lymington to Yarmouth: Ideal for travellers from the New Forest area.
- Southampton to Cowes: Another option for cars and passengers, though this service is currently on hold.
Main Routes
You can choose from several routes to and from the Isle of Wight:
- From Ryde and Fishbourne to Portsmouth (and vice versa).
- From Yarmouth to Lymington, with return services available.
Ferry Operators
The main ferry companies serving these routes are:
- Wightlink
- Hovertravel
- Red Funnel
Whether you’re travelling as a foot passenger or with a car, these ferry services provide reliable and frequent crossings, making it easy to visit the Isle of Wight.
On board & ferry maps
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- Hovertravel Hovercraft landing in Ryde – Isle of Wight
Prices and availability for this crossing.
What is the sailing schedule and the best alternative?
To check the sailing schedule and timetable for this crossing, and to find the best alternative, simply fill in the booking module for ferries to Wight. This tool will provide up-to-date options, times, and routes to suit your travel needs.
Additional Information
Known to residents as “The Island,” the Isle of Wight is famous for its mild climate, beautiful coastal scenery, and popularity as a destination for tourists. However, the ferries are not only vital for tourism but also serve as an essential link for commuters travelling between the island and the mainland for work.
With its unique blend of natural beauty and practical connectivity, the Isle of Wight remains a favourite for visitors and locals alike.
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