Hovercraft Service to the Isle of Wight

1965

The hovercraft service between Southsea and Ryde on the Isle of Wight began in 1965 and has operated almost continuously since. The service is run by Hovertravel and uses the AP1-88 hovercraft, which crosses the Solent in approximately ten minutes, making it the fastest route between the mainland and the island. The terminal at Southsea sits at the western end of the seafront, near Clarence Pier. The service is notable as the last remaining commercial hovercraft route in the world. All other passenger hovercraft services, including the cross-Channel routes that once operated from Dover, have been discontinued. The Southsea to Ryde route survives because the shallow waters and tidal range of the Solent make conventional ferries impractical at this crossing point. The hovercraft can operate regardless of tide because it rides on a cushion of air above the surface. Watching the hovercraft depart, rising on its air cushion and accelerating across the water with a distinctive roar, is one of Southsea's characteristic spectacles. The service carries both foot passengers and bicycles. It is used by commuters, tourists, and residents of the Isle of Wight travelling to the mainland. The hovercraft terminal area also includes a small museum about the history of hovercraft technology.