On Monday 22 September it is World Car Free Day, it’s the perfect time to explore the Isle of Wight by bus. World Car Free Day is a global initiative to help ease congestion and improve air quality. Southern Vectis, our island’s bus operator, has been the heart of our island travel since 1929. From bustling towns and charming villages to sandy beaches and iconic landmarks, their extensive bus network makes it hassle-free and enjoyable to get around, all without a car.  

Aerial view of a Southern Vectis travelling along the coast on the Isle of Wight

One car-free day can make a big difference

Reducing traffic, even for a day, helps lower air pollution and supports better respiratory health for everyone. Private cars and vans contribute significantly to global CO2 emissions - just one Southern Vectis double-decker bus can take up to 75 of them off road. What’s more, Southern Vectis’ latest fleet of new buses are equipped with the state-of-the-art Euro 6 engines, producing fewer emissions than the average new diesel car, making bus travel one of the cleanest, greenest choices on the road.

Hop on the bus and take in the views!

There’s no better way to take in the Isle of Wight’s stunning scenery than from the top deck of a Southern Vectis bus. Enjoy panoramic views of rolling countryside, dramatic coastline and charming towns, all from the comfort of your seat. For an even more memorable experience hop aboard the Island Breezers, open-top tours buses, which will take you to some of our island’s most iconic beauty stops, including The Needles and The Downs. Some of the buses even have tables, so you can enjoy a picnic on board while soaking up the views.  

Ticket options for everyone

Travelling by bus is easy and affordable, with a range of ticket options to suit everyone. The Group Rover tickets offers excellent value for groups of five or more – perfect for exploring our island with friends and family. 

View all bus ticket options here

World Car Free Day offer – 10% off

To celebrate World Car Free Day anyone using the Southern Vectis app for the first time on World Car Free Day will have access to a 10% discount on a 24 Hour Rover and 24 Hour Rover + Breezer tickets – offering unlimited travel at a reduced rate for the entire day. Those taking advantage of the World Car Free Day offer can download the special Rover on the Southern Vectis app using the code CARFREE25.

Even those wishing to take just a single journey can still take advantage of the £3 fare cap, which is currently in place for travel across the Southern Vectis network.

Download Southern Vectis app here

Needles Breezer bus driving from the Needles Battery on the Isle of Wight

The Island Breezers – open-top tours

Southern Vectis offers fantastic routes that make exploring the Isle of Wight easy and enjoyable. Connecting you with our island's attractions and with scenic open-top routes, you can enjoy the fresh air as you breeze around our island! Some of the Breezer routes run until the end of September while The Needles Breezer continues until the 2 November. 

Choose your scenic open-top tour here…

Aerial view of Sandown with the Southern Vectis bus travelling along the seafront on the Isle of Wight

Things to do on the Isle of Wight by bus 

With so many great days out and events happening across our island, getting there by bus couldn’t be easier.  From animal attractions to historic sites, Southern Vectis have planned the journeys for you.  

Start planning your island adventure here...

Two Southern Vectis buses next to the hovercraft on the Isle of Wight

Hover Rover Bus ticket

Travelling to and from our island on foot has never been easier. Southern Vectis has teamed up with Hovertravel to offer special combination tickets, which include your Hovertravel return and unlimited bus travel around our island. There’s also a selection of attraction tickets included. 

The Hover Rover Bus ticket is fantastic value for money and includes a Day Return on the hovercraft and unlimited use on Southern Vectis buses, including our Seasonal & Breezer buses. You can fly across the Solent and then hop on and off the bus as you please for a great day out! 

Book your hovercraft and bus combo ticket here…

Southern Vectis bus travelling on the Military Road at Compton Bay on the Isle of Wight

Explore our island by foot and bus

Don’t miss the Autumn Walking Festival (4 - 12 October 2025). With over 80 walks covering the whole island and varying lengths there is something for everyone. Use the bus to get you to the start and home again at the end. After all who wants to drive after a hike?!

Plan your walking escape here...