Southampton to Isle of Wight Ferry
Southampton to East Cowes – Compare Timetables, Prices, and Book Cheap Tickets
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Find and book ferry tickets from Southampton to East Cowes
Ferry Southampton to Isle of Wight: looking for a quick and reliable connection between Southampton and East Cowes on the Isle of Wight? Whether you're commuting or heading off on holiday, we compare all ferry operators to find you the best fare in seconds.
The ferry from Southampton to Isle of Wight is one of the most popular ways to travel, serviced by Red Funnel, the sole operator on this route. This vehicle ferry service carries cars, motorcycles, and foot passengers to East Cowes in around 1h 0m.
Southampton to East Cowes Ferry Schedule
Stay ahead of your travel plans with the latest timetable information. While frequencies can shift based on the season, the general schedule is as follows:
First Sailing: The first ferry typically departs Southampton at approximately 03:00.
Last Sailing: The final departure of the day usually sets sail at around 23:59.
If no direct sailings are currently available for your chosen dates, please check our Alternative Routes section below to find the next best connection to your destination.
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Data last updated 2026
Ticket Prices & Booking Tips
Fares for the Southampton to East Cowes ferry are dynamic. Booking in advance is the single most effective way to secure the lowest price.
Price Range: Recent averages show tickets priced between £11 and £394.
Typical Fare: Most travelers pay an average of £122.
Best Value: If possible, consider traveling during mid-week or off-peak hours and avoid last-minute bookings at the port.
Southampton to East Cowes Ferry Timetable
Ferries from Southampton to East Cowes
Southampton to East Cowes Ferry - FAQs
The crossing time is typically around 1h 0m. Depending on the operator you choose and the weather conditions, this may fluctuate slightly. For real-time durations on your travel date, use our live search tool.
Prices vary based on season, vehicle type, and booking lead time. Averages range from £11 to £394. Please note that traveling with a vehicle (car, motorcycle, or campervan) will incur additional costs compared to foot passenger fares.
Red Funnel is the sole operator on this route, offering up to 6.
You can book your ferry quickly and securely via Openferry. Our platform compares live prices and schedules across all operators, allowing you to secure an instant e-ticket without the hassle of port queues.
Most ferries on the Southampton to East Cowes route welcome foot passengers. Availability can change by season, so we recommend confirming and booking your spot in advance.
In most cases, yes. Vehicle spaces are limited and often sell out during peak travel periods, so early reservation is highly recommended.
Some operators are pet-friendly. You may be required to keep your pet in your vehicle or a designated kennel area. Ensure you have a valid pet passport or any required health documentation ready for check-in.
No – Red Funnel operates two routes from Southampton. This vehicle ferry sails to East Cowes in around 1h 0m and carries cars, motorcycles, and foot passengers. If you're travelling without a vehicle, the Red Jet fast ferry to West Cowes takes just 30 minutes and runs more frequently, though it's foot passengers and bikes only.
