Isle of Wight Ferry advice sought

Timpu

Apologies if this has been asked before but I didn't get an answer on searching.

We're off to the Isle of Wight in the summer, two adults and a dog. We've been advised to book tickets in advance as the ferries get busy.

Getting there for a particular time will add quite a bit more pressure on the day. DH isn't in great health, patience and time is needed. We originally thought turning up and waiting was the way to go. However, we were told we risk having to wait an hour, possibly two, which won't be great for DH or our dog.

We'll probably go from Portsmouth rather than Southampton. Does anyone have any experience and advice please?

Thanks!

Browntoa

Yes , book a time that gives you ample time to get there rather than risk a long wait

vikingaero

During the summer the ferries will generally run at at half hour intervals. There may be some days where they run half hourly for 2 ferries and then a gap of one hour before the next one.

Most routes will be chockablock during the summer. Off peak/season we've never had problems getting the next ferry, but once or twice in the summer we've been told we won't get on until our booked departure.

There's a huge park south of Gunwharf Quays around Clarence Pier/Clarence Esplanade that you could wait and walk poochy.

Once you're on the ferry get a copy of the free Wightlife Magazine which has loads of information. IIRC the booking office at Gunwharf Quays (toilets too) has mini cards that give information on attractions and some double as discount cards.

oramgepekoe

Last year we booked an early afternoon ferry from Portsmouth to Fishbourne. We deliberately got to the Portsmouth area over two hours early, parked on Southsea seafront and had lunch and a walk round. Do allow plenty of time to drive through Portsmouth, and if you're coming down the A3 the Guildford area is often very slow.

At the ferry terminal they may put you on an earlier ferry if they haven't yet departed.

Timpu

A huge thank you for your advice, really useful. Good to know there are areas we can stop and walk before getting on the ferry, especially for the dog. Sounds like getting there early is key.

Thanks again :beer: