Getting to the Isle of Wight
4 ferry routes from the mainland
The Isle of Wight is reached by ferry from three mainland ports: Portsmouth, Southampton, and Lymington. There is no bridge or tunnel. Three operators run 4 routes: Wightlink (two car ferry routes), Red Funnel (one car ferry route), and Hovertravel (the world's only scheduled hovercraft service).
Ferry Routes
Portsmouth to Fishbourne
Wightlink car ferry. 45 minutes crossing, every 30-45 minutes.
Lymington to Yarmouth
Wightlink car ferry. 40 minutes crossing, every 30 minutes to hourly.
Southampton to East Cowes
Red Funnel car ferry. 55-60 minutes crossing, every 60 minutes.
Southsea to Ryde
Hovertravel foot passenger hovercraft. 10 minutes crossing, every 30 minutes.
Tips for Travelling
- Book car ferry crossings in advance during summer and school holidays
- Foot passengers can usually walk on without booking
- The Hovertravel from Southsea to Ryde is the quickest crossing at just 10 minutes
- Red Funnel runs a foot passenger Hi-Speed service from Southampton to Cowes (25 minutes)
- Consider leaving your car on the mainland if you are visiting for a day trip