About

Hovertravel is the world’s longest running commercial hovercraft service and Europe's only scheduled passenger hovercraft service. The fastest way to cross the Solent between Southsea and Ryde, Hovertravel operates two craft with a frequent service (plus additional crossings at commuter times and to coincide with special events). The journey time is super speedy, at just under 10 minutes.

Invented (appropriately) on the Isle of Wight itself, hovercraft remains one of the most iconic forms of transport. Travelling on the craft at 1.5 metres above the water and at speeds up to 30 knots is a unique experience not to be missed.

The Isle of Wight has some of the best sandy beaches close to Portsmouth. Less than five minutes walk from the Hover Terminal at Ryde is Appley Beach, offering a truly classic seaside setting. Here the sand and sea provide all the entertainment necessary for a wonderful beach outing.

If you want to experience some more of the island then Southern Vectis, Island Line trains or even Hovercycle electric bikes provide plenty of options for getting around. Major attractions include Osborne House, Blackgang Chine, Isle of Wight Steam Railway, and the Isle of Wight Zoo.

One hugely popular place to visit includes Quarr Abbey, founded in 1132 and which was the site for the white stone used to build the Tower of London. There is also the island's oldest tourist attraction, Shanklin Chine, a picturesque leafy gorge perfect for a tranquil moment of reflection as well as a great opportunity to see squirrels and rare plants against a backdrop of enchanting waterfalls.

Alongside the world-class attractions there are plenty of boutique shops and recommended restaurants to enjoy during your next trip. There is so much to do that most visitors decide to stay for a few days or at the very least make a promise to return in the near future.