Isle of Wight Hovercraft (Hovertravel)

About

Flying across the Solent to the Isle of Wight

Hovertravel is the fastest ferry service between Portsmouth and Ryde on the Isle of Wight. It’s the world’s only year-round scheduled (timetabled) passenger hovercraft service. The thrill of flying on a cushion of air just 1.5 metres above the waves at speeds of up to 45 knots is an exhilarating experience. When the hovercraft swings round to glide from the beach to the sea, the smooth transition is unlike any other boat or ship.

Fast crossing - shore to shore in minutes

The speedy hovercraft takes just 10 minutes to cross between Ryde and Southsea (Portsmouth) and transports foot passengers from shore to shore with no need for piers or pontoons. It is literally a case of being on the vessel for a few minutes before you are on the island and are getting off again.

Timetables

Hovertravel’s timetable operates every 30 mins between April and October, and hourly during the Winter months (November – March) carrying up to 78 passengers per crossing.

Hovertravel fares

Choose the fare that suits you whether you’re flying with your family or you’re part of a group. 

Offers and ways to save with Hovertravel

There’s a variety of special offers and ways to save with Hovertravel for your flight to the Isle of Wight. 

Save money with discounted flights, combo ticket deals and savings with attractions. There are also a wide range of ticket types offering savings from afternoon flyers, flexi flyers to family flyers.  

Travel in comfort 

Once onboard the passenger cabin is bright and spacious and the large picture windows give great views of the Solent, including a huge variety of marine traffic to watch plus a couple of historic forts built in the late 1800s.

Hovercraft experiences

Hovertravel have created unique experiences designed to showcase the world’s favourite and longest running passenger hovercraft service.

Enjoy a demonstration on land and sea with an exclusive talk to their crew and pilots with the Hovercraft Experience Flight. Or step into Hovertravel's operational hub and explore behind the hovercraft curtain with the Behind the Scenes Tour.

Transport connections at terminals

There are large car parks at both terminals, bus connections and a convenient Hoverbus service from Portsmouth train stations direct to Southsea terminal. Ryde terminal is next to Ryde’s train and bus station. 

Travel by train

Hovertravel is part of the national rail network which means you can buy a single, day return or period return fare from any train station, self-service ticket machine or rail appointed travel agent which includes your hovercraft travel between Portsmouth & Isle of Wight, and Hoverbus transfer, plus your onward travel on the Isle of Wight (just ensure your tickets state ‘Ryde Hoverport’ or route ‘via Hovertravel’).

Travel by coach and bus

Hovertravel is also travel partners with National Express and Southern Vectis which means you can buy an all-inclusive ticket from anywhere in the UK to any destination on the Isle of Wight including your Hovertravel service between Ryde.

Assisted travel options

All passengers will receive help with luggage from friendly staff. Passengers who require that extra bit of help can take advantage of the HoverCare scheme. The hovercraft can carry one wheelchair per crossing and allows pets to travel with their owners. Up to four bikes are allowed, subject to other freight and luggage and are provided on a first come- first served basis.

Travel the fastest way to the Isle of Wight

Whether you have already planned your visit and are looking for a unique transportation experience or want to travel to the island on the fastest ferry service, a flight with Hovertravel will add a unique memory to your trip.

Book your next adventure to the Isle of Wight with Hovertravel.