FerryConnect

England → Isle of Wight

Southsea → Ryde (Isle of Wight)

The fastest way to cross the Solent: a ten-minute hovercraft ride from Southsea seafront to Ryde. It is the last scheduled passenger hovercraft service in the world and connects with Island Line trains at Ryde Esplanade.

⏱ About 10m🚢 1 operator📅 Frequent crossings through the day🐕 Pet friendly

Southsea to Ryde (Isle of Wight) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Southsea to Ryde (Isle of Wight) takes About 10m across the Solent, operated by Hovertravel. It is a foot-passenger service; vehicles are not carried. Typical frequency: frequent crossings through the day.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Southsea and Ryde (Isle of Wight)

📐 4 Nautical Miles
Southsea⇄Ryde (Isle of Wight)
⏱ About 10m · 📐 4 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
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Ready to cross from Southsea to Ryde (Isle of Wight)?

Check live availability, fares and sailing times with Direct Ferries.

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Hovertravel10mIsland Flyer, Solent Flyer

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Foot passengers only

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

4 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Ryde Esplanade station and bus station are next to the Ryde hoverport
  • In Southsea, a free shuttle bus has historically linked Portsmouth & Southsea station with the hoverport; check current arrangements

Related Ferry Crossings

Also sails from SouthseaPortsmouth → Caen (Ouistreham)6h – 7h (day) / overnight · Brittany FerriesAlso sails from SouthseaPortsmouth → St Malo9h – 11h (overnight) · Brittany FerriesAlso sails from SouthseaPortsmouth → Fishbourne (Isle of Wight)45m · WightlinkAlso sails from SouthseaPortsmouth → Jersey (St Helier)8h – 10h 20m (conventional, usually via Guernsey) · Condor FerriesNearby alternative crossingSouthampton → East Cowes (Isle of Wight)55m – 1h · Red FunnelNearby alternative crossingLymington → Yarmouth (Isle of Wight)About 40m · Wightlink
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Southsea to Ryde hovercraft the fastest Isle of Wight crossing?
Yes. At about 10 minutes it is the quickest Solent crossing. It carries foot passengers only; drivers need Wightlink or Red Funnel car ferries.
How long is the ferry from Southsea to Ryde (Isle of Wight)?
The crossing typically takes About 10m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
Which ferry companies sail from Southsea to Ryde (Isle of Wight)?
Hovertravel operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Southsea to Ryde (Isle of Wight) ferry?
No. This is a foot-passenger service and vehicles are not carried. Use parking near the departure pier or public transport to reach it.
Can I take the Southsea to Ryde (Isle of Wight) ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Southsea to Ryde (Isle of Wight) ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Southsea from Ryde (Isle of Wight) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 4 nautical miles (roughly 7 km).