Getting to Cowes

Red Jet Hi-Speed Passenger Service
Southampton <> West Cowes, Isle of Wight
The Red Jet Hi-Speed ferry service operates half-hourly between Southampton Town Quay and West Cowes, Isle of Wight. The catamarans carry foot-passengers only, and the crossing takes about 23 mins. An at-seat refreshment service is available onboard.


Arriving by car on the Isle of Wight
If you are on the Isle of Wight then Cowes and East Cowes can both be reached easily via the Island's capital town of Newport and Ryde to the East.

For Cowes take the A3054 west out of Ryde sign-posted to Newport. From Newport follow the A3020 Medina Way north signposted Cowes. 
For East Cowes take the A3054 west from Ryde signposted Newport but turn north after leaving the town of Wootton Bridge taking the A3021 signposted to East Cowes. 

There is good car parking available in both towns which are also connected by the floating bridge, a chain ferry that operates 365 days a year and is in service to convey passengers and vehicles on the short crossing between Cowes and East Cowes. The ferry only takes a couple of minutes, across the fast flowing tides in the narrow mouth of the River Medina estuary. It is in operation for approx 18 hours each day. 

Arriving by public transport
The Isle of Wight's bus company Southern Vectis operates a  regular sevice to Cowes and East Cowes from various parts of the Island. It's also a great way to see more of the Island if you have arrived in Cowes or East Cowes. Visit the Southern Vectis website for service and timetable information. 

Air Travel to Cowes
Southampton International airport is only 50 minutes away from the Island and offers a range of services to the UK and world-wide.
Cowes is also reached easily via the international airports at Bournemouth, Gatwick and Heathrow. All airports are served by excellent rail, coach and taxi services from the Isle of Wight.

For more information about the Isle of Wight visit isleofwight.co.uk for the latest on accommodation, what to do and what to see. Visit isleofwight.co.uk for tourist information on the Isle of Wight.