Ferries Isle of Wight

When travelling by ferry to the Isle of Wight, you can take advantage of the regular discounts available to specific passenger categories. Typically, children under 16 and senior travellers (60+) are entitled to lower ferry ticket prices, while infants and toddlers up to 4 years old travel for free.

Ferry to the Isle of Wight from Southampton

There are 2 ferry routes connecting Southampton to the Isle of Wight, both of which are operated year-round by Red Funnel.

Southampton - East Cowes

The route from Southampton to East Cowes on the Isle of Wight is served with up to 20 daily crossings. The journey in the conventional vehicle ferry takes 1 hr and tickets cost from € 13.7.

Southampton - West Cowes

You can travel by high-speed catamaran from Southampton to West Cowes with up to 20 daily ferries. This passenger-only crossing usually takes 28 min, while ticket prices start at around € 27.39.

Red Funnel serves the Southampton - Isle of Wight ferry routes with both conventional ferries and high-speed catamarans.

How much luggage can you take on the ferry to the Isle of Wight?

When travelling with Red Funnel to the Isle of Wight, you can bring 2 bags for free, with a combined weight of up to 25 kg.

The ferry ride to the Isle of Wight normally takes 28 min to 1 hr, depending on the destination and vessel type. Here are indicative travel times for each route from Southampton:

• Southampton - East Cowes: about 1 hr
• Southampton - West Cowes: around 28 min

Which is the fastest route to the Isle of Wight?

The fastest way to reach the Isle of Wight by ferry is from Southampton, a coastal town in Hampshire, England. The journey from Portsmouth to West Cowes with Red Funnel’s catamaran service takes 28 min.

The Southampton - East Cowes crossing takes approximately 1 hr but is operated by conventional ferries that can transport vehicles.

What is the cheapest ferry route to the Isle of Wight?

Tickets on the route connecting Southampton to East Cowes on the Isle of Wight currently start at € 13.7.

Keep in mind that the final ticket cost depends on vehicle selection, discounts, offers, and seat type.

Which port of departure should I choose?

Both routes leave from Southampton, but they use different terminals and arrive on opposite sides of the River Medina:

• Southampton - East Cowes is the best choice if you are taking a vehicle with you, such as a car, motorcycle or campervan. It is also generally the cheaper option, although the crossing takes around 1 hr.
• Southampton - West Cowes is better for foot passengers who prioritise speed or want to arrive close to the centre of Cowes. The Red Jet takes around 28 min but does not carry cars.

Your onward plans may also influence your choice. East Cowes offers convenient road access towards Newport and the rest of the island, while West Cowes is more practical if you are staying in Cowes or travelling without a vehicle.

What other factors should I consider?

• Seasonality: both services generally operate throughout the year, but departure frequency and fares can change between peak and off-peak periods. Book early for summer crossings, festivals and bank-holiday weekends.
• Travel time versus price: the catamaran to West Cowes is faster but usually more expensive. The conventional ferry to East Cowes is slower and generally cheaper, with the added advantage of a car deck.
• Departure times: both routes normally offer several crossings per day, although the timetable varies by season and day of the week. Check which service best matches your onward transport or accommodation check-in time.
• Vehicles: choose East Cowes if you need to bring a vehicle. Car-deck spaces can sell out during busy periods, so advance booking is advisable.

Can I travel on the ferry to the Isle of Wight with a car?

Yes, the conventional ferries travelling from Southampton to East Cowes on the Isle of Wight have car decks. Keep in mind that the high-speed catamaran to West Cowes does not have the capacity to transport vehicles.

Always check the availability and keep in mind that car deck spots may be more limited during peak months. Also, make sure you bring along your driving licence, vehicle registration and insurance documents.

How much does it cost to bring my car to the Isle of Wight?

The cost depends on the vehicle type, with prices starting at around €65 for a car or caravan and €20 for a motorbike.

Can I take my caravan or motorhome on the ferry to the Isle of Wight?

Yes, you can take your van, motorhome or caravan on the Red Funnel ferry from Portsmouth to East Cowes on the Isle of Wight.

The ferries operated by Red Funnel on the ferries to the Isle of Wight feature a range of amenities and servies. On the high-speed catamarans, you will find comfy air-conditioned lounges, cafés serving snacks and beverages, and Wi-Fi to stay connected during the trip. The larger, conventional ferries generally have additional amenities, such as spacious outer decks, restaurants, children's play areas and car decks.

Cabins & accommodation

Are there cabins on the ferries?

Due to the short duration of the journey, there are no cabins on the Portsmouth - Isle of Wight ferries. Standard onboard seating is included in the ticket price.

What type of seats can you book?

On crossings from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight, you can book a deck/lounge seat, with prices starting from around € 13.7.

Can I travel first class?

Yes, on the conventional ferries to East Cowes, you can upgrade your booking to include access to the Signature Lounge. This is a premium lounge in an exclusive area onboard, and includes enhanced WiFi access, panoramic views, table service, and complimentary snacks and beverages for the trip.

Are the ferries accessible?

Red Funnel ferries serving the Isle of Wight route are designed to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility and include:

• Lifts between vehicle and passenger decks
• Accessible toilets
• Baby-changing facilities
• Wheelchair-accessible public areas

Boarding assistance is typically available upon request and with prior notification to the ferry company before your journey.

Important: accessibility features vary by vessel, so it is recommended to contact the ferry company at the time of booking for further details.

Can you take pets on the ferry to the Isle of Wight?

Yes, pets are generally welcome on the ferry to the Isle of Wight, provided you include them in your booking. During the trip, smaller pets must be kept in their carrier, while larger pets must wear a muzzle and be kept on a lead.

Make sure you bring your pet’s health and travel documents, tickets, and any pet supplies you may need for the trip.

Where do pets stay on the ferry?

When travelling with Red Funnel, you can keep your pet with you in the pet-friendly lounge or outer deck, or your pet can stay in your vehicle for the duration of the trip.

If you decide to leave your pet in your vehicle, it’s recommended that you leave a window slightly open for ventilation.

Is there Wi-Fi on the ferries?

Yes, there is Wi-Fi on the Red Funnel ferries travelling to the Isle of Wight from Southampton.

Is there entertainment on the ferries?

Due to the crossing’s short duration, ferries connecting Southampton to the Isle of Wight do not offer entertainment amenities, except for children's play areas on conventional ferries.

What travel documents do I need to go by ferry to the Isle of Wight?

The Southampton to Isle of Wight crossing is a domestic route within the UK, so passport and immigration checks are not required.

Before travelling, make sure you have:

• A valid photo ID, as it may be required when collecting your booking or during check-in.
• Your booking confirmation.
• If you're travelling with a vehicle, bring your driver’s licence, vehicle registration and insurance documents.

How to book ferry tickets

You can easily book ferry tickets to the Isle of Wight on Ferryhopper in just a few clicks:

1. Select the Isle of Wight as your destination, along with your port of departure and travel dates.
2. Add passengers, pets, and vehicles.
3. Compare ferry operators, travel times, and ticket prices.
4. Complete your booking securely online.

Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive your ferry tickets by email. Ferryhopper lets you manage your booking, check for updates, and access customer support all in one place.

Check-in and boarding procedures

We recommend arriving at the port early to ensure a smooth boarding process. More specifically:

• Foot passengers: arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
• Passengers travelling with a vehicle: arrive 30 to 45 minutes before departure.
• Follow the signs to the appropriate check-in area and have your booking confirmation ready.

During busy periods, such as summer months, weekends and public holidays, allowing extra time is recommended.

Can I board with an electronic ticket?

With Red Funnel, you can book your Isle of Wight ferry tickets online on Ferryhopper and pick them up in paper form from the company’s collection points at the port before the trip.

Just off the coast of Hampshire lies the Isle of Wight, a gem of the English Channel full of imposing cliffs, scenic beaches and picturesque villages. Fishbourne, a small village on the Isle of Wight's north-eastern coast, welcomes visitors with its peaceful waterfront setting and easy access to the island's natural beauty. As one of the Isle of Wight's main ferry gateways, it offers a relaxed atmosphere surrounded by woodlands and coastal paths. From exploring the nearby beaches and countryside to setting off for popular destinations such as Ryde, Osborne and Newport, Fishbourne is the perfect starting point for discovering the Isle of Wight's many treasures.

For more information and tips for how to explore this beautiful English Channel island, head to our Isle of Wight and Fishbourne travel guide.

Here are some handy tips to keep in mind when travelling by ferry to the Isle of Wight:

• The Solent, the major tidal strait separating the Isle of Wight from mainland England, is generally sheltered, providing a smooth crossing. However, if you're prone to seasickness, you may still wish to bring medication, particularly during windy weather.
• If you're travelling with a vehicle during the summer or on public holidays, reserve your space as early as possible, as vehicle capacity can fill up quickly.
• Take advantage of the frequent daily departures, which make it easy to plan both day trips and longer stays on the Isle of Wight.

Best time to book

However, if you're travelling during weekends, bank holidays or summer months, it's best to book your tickets 1 to 2 months in advance, particularly if you're travelling with a vehicle.

Outside the peak season, you'll usually find greater availability and more flexibility when choosing your departure time. However, booking early is recommended as it can also help you secure the lowest fares.

The Southampton - Isle of Wight routes use 2 ports: East Cowes and West Cowes. Both are situated on the island’s northern coast, on opposite sides of the River Medina. East Cowes serves the conventional vehicle ferry, while West Cowes handles a high-speed catamaran service for foot passengers.

Where are the ports of the Isle of Wight?

• East Cowes: the terminal is on Trinity Road, on the eastern side of the River Medina near its mouth. It serves Red Funnel’s conventional ferries from Southampton and is around 15 min by car from Newport.
• West Cowes: the Red Jet terminal is close to the centre of Cowes, on the western bank of the River Medina. It receives high-speed passenger ferries from Southampton and is convenient for visitors staying in Cowes or travelling without a vehicle.

Are there are any traveller amenities at the port?

The West Cowes Terminal has a ticket office, toilets, free Wi-Fi and luggage trolleys, with cafés, shops and accommodation close by in Cowes.

At the East Cowes Terminal, you will find a waiting room, ticket office, toilets, vending machines and a seasonal snack kiosk. The terminal is also a short walk from the town’s shops and cafés.

How to get to the Isle of Wight ports

Both terminals are accessible by bus, taxi, car and on foot from their respective town centres. Southern Vectis bus 5 connects Newport with East Cowes, stopping a few minutes’ walk from the ferry terminal, while bus 1 links Newport with West Cowes. Journeys between Newport and either port generally take around 15-20 min.

The Cowes Floating Bridge links East Cowes and West Cowes across the River Medina, carrying pedestrians, bicycles and most vehicles. It is around a 2-min walk from East Cowes terminal and about a 10-min walk from West Cowes terminal, while the crossing itself takes approximately 15-20 min. Taxis are also available, although booking ahead is advisable when arriving at East Cowes.

Ferry route map

Below, you can see all active ferry connections to Isle of Wight, as well as starting prices for each route. Use our interactive Map of ferries to visualize your trip and easily plan an island-hopping adventure.