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Travel GuidesPUBLISHED 2026-05-25

Isle of Wight Ferries for Campervans

TK
Thomas Kendrick
Contributor archive
1 min read

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The Isle of Wight is a popular van life destination. Two ferry operators serve the island.

Ferry Routes

RouteOperatorDurationVan Cost (return)
Portsmouth to FishbourneWightlink45 min£50-80
Lymington to YarmouthWightlink40 min£60-90
Southampton to East CowesRed Funnel60 min£60-90

Booking Tips

  • Book online in advance (30% cheaper than ticket office)
  • Off-peak crossings are cheaper (after 10am, before 4pm)
  • A day return is cheaper than separate singles
  • Red Funnel is often the cheapest

Best Campsites

  • Nodes Point (St Helens): Sea views. Heated pool. £25-35/night.
  • Whitecliff Bay: Large site near sandy beach. £22-30/night.
  • Tapnell Farm: Family-friendly. Pools and animals. £20-28/night.

Top Attractions

  • The Needles (chairlift to the beach)
  • Carisbrooke Castle
  • Osborne House (Queen Victoria's residence)
  • Shanklin Chine
  • Isle of Wight Steam Railway

Time Needed

Minimum 3 days. Ideal: 5-7 days to explore all the island.

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Topics

travel-guidesisle-of-wightferriescampervanuk
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TK
Thomas Kendrick
Contributor archive

Van Life UK contributor archive. See our editorial policy for research and testing standards.

View all articles by Thomas Kendrick →

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