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The Southsea to Ryde hovercraft is a genuine one-off: the world's longest-running commercial passenger hovercraft service, gliding across the Solent in around ten minutes. Operated by Hovertravel, the craft lifts off from the beach at Southsea on its cushion of air and skims over the water before riding straight up onto the sands at Ryde. It is comfortably the fastest way to reach the Isle of Wight, and a memorable experience in its own right as you watch the spray fly past the windows. As a foot-passenger service it is hugely popular with commuters and day trippers alike, with frequent departures throughout the day. At Ryde it lands close to the esplanade, beaches and bus connections, putting the whole island within easy reach for car-free travellers.
The hovercraft makes the crossing in about 10 minutes, making it the fastest way to travel between the mainland and the Isle of Wight.
No, Hovertravel is a foot-passenger service only. The hovercraft carries passengers and luggage but not vehicles.
It lands on the beach beside Ryde Esplanade, close to the seafront, bus stops and train connections for onward island travel.