Isle Of Wight Ferries

As one of Transport for the South East’s key partners, the Isle of Wight holds a unique place within our region, both in its geographic position and in the distinct transport challenges it faces. TfSE is fully committed to helping identify and address these challenges through our work.

Transport for the South East’s Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) highlights the Isle of Wight’s reliance on privately-run ferry links. In order to improve transport for the Islands residents the SIP proposes more frequent services, longer operating hours, new seasonal routes and stronger links with rail and bus networks.

Recognising the island’s unique economic challenges, TfSE’s Business Advisory Group recommended an independent academic study be undertaken. This led to the Solent Ferry Services Report, which reviews the current system, compares international ferry models, applies economic principles to explain how the situation developed, and sets out potential options for change.

The full report can be found here.