Hovertravel

About Hovertravel


Hovertravel provides the fastest Isle of Wight ferry service across the Solent and is the world’s longest running and only commercial hovercraft operator in Europe. The passenger ferry service takes you directly to the shore at Southsea or Ryde in under 10 minutes. Easy onward travel connections are available with their Hoverbus to Portsmouth, bus and train connections at Ryde plus large car parks at both terminals.

Hovertravel provides a ‘Hoverbus’ service which connects with the Hovercraft at Southsea and conveniently takes passengers to and from Portsmouth Harbour, The Hard & Portsmouth & Southsea Train Stations. There are also large car parks at the terminal, coach parking nearby and National Express and Lucketts coach stops opposite the terminal.

Once on the Isle of Wight you will land in a prime seafront position, alongside Ryde’s splendid beaches and boutique shops, where travel links including the train link to Shanklin and buses to other parts of the Island, are next to the terminal.

Family Flyer Day Return
Hovertravel’s Family Flyer Day Return Deal helps you plan the perfect day out. A family of 5 can travel to or from the Isle of Wight for just £60 return, available during the school holidays!

Hovercraft Experience Flights

Experience the thrill of the world’s longest-running hovercraft service first-hand with Hovertravel’s exclusive Hovercraft Experience Flights. This unique 60-minute experience offers an unparalleled look at this remarkable mode of transportation. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the skilled pilots and crew who navigate the Solent Strait daily. They will gain fascinating insights into the inner workings of these iconic machines and witness their impressive capabilities during a special 20-minute hovercraft demonstration including 360 degree turns and deflation of the skirt!

Behind the Scenes Tours 
Enjoy a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with their iconic hovercrafts.  A fantastic opportunity for families and transport enthusiasts alike to learn more about the impressive hovercraft fleet and its operational procedures. You will be treated to a Behind-the-Scenes Tour lasting approximately 60 minutes, led by one of their most experienced team members. This exclusive tour offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a hovercraft and the history of this fascinating mode of transport. Get a comprehensive look inside and outside the hovercraft, view a historic hovercraft video, take part in a Q&A session, and leave with a special certificate to commemorate your day.

Attraction Combo Deals 
Hovertravel offers great value all-inclusive travel and attraction tickets to incorporate the Island’s buses and trains and entrance to many superb attractions from Osborne House, the Isle of Wight Steam Railway and Robin Hill Adventure Park

Open every day, apart from Christmas day, Boxing day and New year’s day.

Please visit the Hovertravel website to see prices

Why should I visit?

    • Fast – quickest way to cross the Solent
    • Frequent – regular crossings every 30 minutes
    • Friendly – best customer service delivered by uniformed professional staff

Facilities

Assistance dogs allowed
Baby changing facilities
Disabled access
Disabled parking available
Dogs accepted
Gift shop
Suitable for ages 12 and above
Suitable for ages 3 and above
Suitable for ages 5 and above
Suitable for ages 8 and above
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Discount tickets and vouchers

 

Hovertravel

Valid from 24th Jul 2026 until 31st Dec 2026

25% off with Hovertravel

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Where to find us

Address

Hovertravel Limited
Quay Road
Ryde
Isle of Wight
PO33 2HB

Find us online

By road

Head to Portsmouth and onto the M27. Join the M275 and continue past the continental ferry port towards Portsmouth. Follow the signs for Isle of Wight ferries, Seafront and Historic Waterfront. From here on, follow the signs for the hovercraft.

By rail

Alight at Portsmouth & Southsea Railway Station and follow the signs to the Hoverbus, bus stop C. You will cross the road by the zebra crossing leading you to the Hoverbus stop. The specially operated Hoverbus Service will take you directly to the Southsea Terminal for just £1.05 per child & £2.10 per adult. The Hoverbus connects with the hovercraft and will make sure you are at the Hovercraft Terminal in time for your craft. It couldn’t be easier!

Kids activities

harry hampshire

  • Unique form of transport
  • Watching the craft arrive and depart

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