Heading over to the mainland – or escaping to the peaceful and beautiful Island for a few days? Whether you’re located in Hampshire, on the Isle of Wight – or even further afield – how you get on and off the Island is important.

Running for more than 160 years, Wightlink’s eight well-equipped ferries carry a massive 4.6 million passengers each year on more than 100 sailings a day. Return services run from Portsmouth to Fishbourne, Portsmouth Harbour to Ryde and Lymington to Yarmouth, with crossing times from as little as 22 minutes.

Launched in 2018, Wightlink’s hybrid energy flagship ferry, Victoria of Wight, heralded the start of a greener era of ferry travel between the Isle of Wight and the mainland. The first hybrid energy ferry in England, the ship uses 17% less fuel than the next largest vessel in the Wightlink fleet.

Wightlink’s progressive green agenda is also helping to reduce plastic waste on crossing and provide and maintain marine habitats in its ports. In the Wight Taste cafes, delicious Island-sourced sandwiches, freshly made pasties, locally brewed ales and more support Island food and drink producers and reduce food miles, too (vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free diets are catered for, so no need to pack a picnic!).

In recognition Wightlink has scooped gold member status in Visit Isle of Wight’s Green Star scheme, which celebrates businesses that play their part in providing sustainable ways to visit the Island.

All the ferries in the Wightlink fleet have spacious lounges and outdoor sun decks to take in the Solent crossing views and there are always plenty of ticket offers to look out for. Did you know, kids go free in the school holidays? Amazing!

Bringing your pooch-baby? Pets travel free and all Wightlink’s vehicle ferries have dedicated lounges where you can bring them. And relax…