Wightlink marks centenary of key Island ferry route

Wightlink has marked a major milestone today (Friday 20 March) as the Portsmouth to Fishbourne ferry route celebrates 100 years of service across the Solent.

To mark the centenary, a special sailing brought together past and present crew, local dignitaries and some long-standing customers and business partners on a special round trip on the route. Guests boarded Wightlink’s newest vessel, Victoria of Wight, and spent the afternoon speaking with staff and exploring the history of the route through a specially created onboard timeline.

First introduced in March 1926 by the Southern Railway Company, the crossing has grown from a small-scale operation into the Island’s busiest link with the mainland.

In its early days, passengers and goods were transported on wooden vessels towed by a tug. Demand quickly increased and, by 1927, a purpose-built car ferry was in operation, capable of carrying 16 vehicles and around 100 passengers – a significant development at the time.

The route proved particularly important during the Second World War, maintaining a vital connection between Portsmouth and the Island despite air raids and restrictions, and helping to move workers, supplies and essential goods.

Operated by Wightlink since 1990, the service remains the company’s busiest route, with regular sailings taking around 45 minutes and carrying thousands of passengers and vehicles each day.

Wightlink Chief Executive Officer Katy Taylor said: “This is an incredibly important milestone for us and for the Isle of Wight. For 100 years, this route has connected people, supported businesses and been part of everyday life here.

“We are very grateful to all those who have worked on the route over the past century and are very proud to continue serving the Island today. We would also like to thank our customers, past and present, whose continued support has been at the heart of the route’s success. It was wonderful to celebrate this historic milestone with guests today and we very much look forward to the next 100 years of service.”

Speaking at the event, Captain Sam Mitchell said: ” This centenary gives us a moment to honour the history of this route and to recognise the people who built the Portsmouth to Fishbourne service and those who continue to uphold its standards every day.
“It has been a privilege for me to represent them today.”

Wightlink has continued to invest in more modern vessels and infrastructure to meet changing demands. This includes the introduction of Victoria of Wight in 2018, England’s first hybrid-powered ferry, designed to reduce emissions while improving the passenger experience. The Fishbourne and Gunwharf terminals have also been upgraded to increase efficiency and provide more facilities for customers.

As the route reaches its centenary, it remains a vital link across the Solent, keeping Islanders connected. To find out more about 100 years of the Portsmouth–Fishbourne route, please visit:
https://www.wightlink.co.uk/about-wightlink/portsmouth-fishbourne-100-anniversary