Wightlink champions Island businesses in new campaign to inspire more Isle of Wight breaks

Wightlink is putting Isle of Wight businesses and the Island’s visitor economy in the spotlight through a new partnership with award-winning Island production company GlobalShots.

The partnership has created a new short film for Wightlink’s “48 Hours on Island Time” campaign, designed to inspire more people to choose the Isle of Wight for a relaxing short
break. Featuring stunning scenery, local people and independent Island businesses, the campaign brings to life the Island’s unique appeal as a place to slow down, recharge and enjoy
memorable experiences close to home.

Produced entirely on the Isle of Wight, the film showcases the quality, creativity and character that make the Island such a distinctive destination. It features a selection of local businesses, including Rapanui, Tapnell Farm and The Piano Cafe in Freshwater Bay, demonstrating how tourism investment can support and celebrate the people and enterprises that help the Island thrive.

GlobalShots was founded by Bethany Mercer and Jay Haysey in 2014. What began as a shared passion for film and photography has grown into one of the UK’s leading outdoor lifestyle production companies, working with major brands around the world while remaining proudly rooted on the Isle of Wight. More than a decade later, the business continues to deliver high-impact creative projects from its Island home.

Bethany from GlobalShots said: “We’re incredibly proud to have partnered with Wightlink on this campaign and to play a part in showcasing the Isle of Wight to potential visitors. Our work takes us around the world, filming in some extraordinary locations, but nowhere feels quite like home. The Isle of Wight offers a complete mindset shift and the opportunity for a full nature-led reset – a powerful combination of stunning landscapes, welcoming communities and thriving independent businesses. It has been a privilege to help bring that story to life on film with Wightlink.”

David Williams, Wightlink’s Head of Marketing, said: “The Isle of Wight has an exceptional tourism offer, and Wightlink has a clear role in helping more people discover it. As one of the Island’s major businesses and a key part of its visitor economy, we are determined to use our reach and influence to champion the Island, support local businesses and encourage more visitors to choose the Isle of Wight.

“This year, we are making our biggest commitment yet to promoting the Island, with a substantially stronger campaign presence across TV, radio, out of home, digital and social
media. That investment is about keeping the Isle of Wight front of mind and making sure its businesses, landscapes and experiences are seen by more potential visitors.

“48 Hours on Island Time gives people a compelling reason to come here. It shows that a short break on the Isle of Wight can feel like a complete reset, without the need to travel far. With fast, convenient rail and ferry connections from London and the South East, the Island is closer,
easier and more rewarding to visit than many people realise.

“We are especially proud that this campaign has been created with an Isle of Wight company and features local businesses. Working with GlobalShots has allowed us to showcase Island talent while capturing the authentic character, creativity and natural beauty that make the Isle of Wight stand out as one of the UK’s most special short-break destinations.”

The “48 Hours on Island Time” campaign will be promoted across Wightlink’s channels throughout the summer, encouraging visitors to discover the restorative benefits of an Isle of
Wight getaway while supporting local businesses and the wider Island tourism economy.