Wightlink
Wightlink runs ferries across the Solent between the English mainland and the Isle of Wight, and has done since 1990. Three mainland departure points link to three island ports, carrying foot passengers, cyclists and cars. Tickets are booked online or in the Wightlink app, and e-tickets arrive straight away for printing or showing on a phone.
Our pick at Wightlink
20% off midweek car, van and motorcycle ferry crossings (Tuesday to Thursday)
Why this one: The biggest saving of the 2 offers here. Picks follow these rules; nobody pays for them.
Wightlink offers2
More ways to save at Wightlink
- Student discountWightlink offers discounts on foot passenger tickets for students over 16. Accepted IDs include Student Rider, ISIC, TOTUM, UNiDAYS, or any photo student ID card with an expiry date or a stamped and signed letter from the school/college/university.
- NHS discountWightlink provides a 50% discount for Isle of Wight residents travelling to the mainland for NHS-funded hospital appointments (max £35 per single vehicle crossing), applicable to the patient and one accompanying traveller. Discounts are also available via the Blue Light Card scheme.
- Military discountMembers of the Defence Discount Service can save up to 20% on cross-Solent ferry travel (20% off foot passenger bookings, 15% off car/motorcycle bookings). Current and former armed forces members, plus one accompanying foot passenger, can also travel free during the Remembrance period.
- Join MyLinkThe MyLink loyalty programme for Isle of Wight residents offers the best prices on foot passenger ferry travel, discounts on onboard drinks, and access to exclusive seasonal offers and promotions. It is free to join.
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About Wightlink
Routes and crossing times
Sailings leave from Lymington, Portsmouth Harbour and Portsmouth Gunwharf, serving Yarmouth, Ryde Pier Head and Fishbourne on the island. The car ferry from Portsmouth to Fishbourne takes about 45 minutes, while the FastCat to Ryde crosses in 22. Around 4.3 million people travel with Wightlink each year.
Tickets for every kind of traveller
Fares cover foot passengers, bicycles and vehicles, and frequent travellers can buy passes. Dogs and small pets are allowed on board. If plans change, a sailing can be amended, and the help section explains how changes and cancellations work.
Discounts and the app
Students aged over 16 can get reduced foot passenger fares with Student Rider, ISIC, TOTUM, UNiDAYS or a dated photo student card. NHS staff and armed forces members also qualify for discounted rates. Island residents can join MyLink free for lower foot passenger fares and onboard offers. The app shows live travel updates and keeps bookings in one place. Payment is by Visa, Mastercard, PayPal or Apple Pay.
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Wightlink quick facts
| Delivery | E-tickets delivered instantly via email. Print at home or show on mobile. |
|---|---|
| Returns | Wightlink offers flexibility for bookings, allowing customers to amend their sailing if plans change. Full details on changing or cancelling bookings can be found in their help section or by contacting customer service. |
| Payment methods | visa, mastercard, paypal, apple_pay |
| Loyalty scheme | MyLink |
| Founded | 1990 |
| Headquarters | Portsmouth, United Kingdom |
| Parent company | Arca Topco |
| Stores | 6 ports |
Wightlink contact
- Website
- wightlink.co.uk
- Phone
- 0333 999 7333
- Hours
- Daily 6am-10pm
Wightlink FAQs
Which ports does Wightlink sail from?
Mainland sailings leave from Lymington, Portsmouth Harbour and Portsmouth Gunwharf. Island arrivals are at Yarmouth, Fishbourne and Ryde Pier Head.
Can I change my Wightlink booking?
Yes. Sailings can be amended if plans change. The help section and customer service explain the terms for changes and cancellations.
What ID do students need for a Wightlink discount?
Students over 16 can show a Student Rider, ISIC, TOTUM or UNiDAYS card, or a photo student ID with an expiry date. A stamped and signed letter from their place of study also works.
Do I need a paper ticket for Wightlink?
No. E-tickets arrive by email straight after booking and can be printed at home or shown on a phone.
