Wightlink’s free familiarisation trips help Islander’s navigate ferry travel with ease

Isle of Wight groups have been taking part in a new initiative introduced by Wightlink to make ferry travel feel more comfortable and accessible for anxious travellers or those with specific needs.

The new scheme, which offers escorted return foot-passenger journeys on any Wightlink route, has already supported a wide range of local groups including the Isle of Wight Youth Trust, Isorropia Foundation, Healthwatch Isle of Wight, Umbrella Cancer Support and People Matter Isle of Wight.

The familiarisation trips are open to both individuals and organisations who may benefit from experiencing the crossing in a calm, supported environment. Each visit covers the full travel experience, from checking in and boarding, to exploring onboard facilities, understanding what to expect during the crossing and disembarking at the destination.

Groups are accompanied throughout by a member of Wightlink’s Customer Experience Team, who is on hand to answer questions and offer reassurance. Customers remain on board for the full round trip, removing the need to make additional travel arrangements.

Sara Howden, Wightlink’s Head of Customer Experience, says: “We want everyone to feel confident and at ease when they travel with us. Our familiarisation trips give individuals and groups the chance to understand the journey in advance and reduce any worries they may have. From checking in to disembarking, we’re here to support all our customers so they can enjoy a smooth, stress-free crossing.”

One of the first groups to take part in the new initiative were young people from the Isle of Wight Youth Trust, who visited Wightlink’s Ryde Pier Head terminal to practise each step involved in travelling to Portsmouth by FastCat.

Paul Saville, Networks and Information Coordinator at the Youth Trust, said: “We wanted to show young people how easy and accessible it is to travel on the ferry. Wightlink has been fantastic in giving us the chance to join these sessions and help young Islanders become more confident and independent travellers.”

Members of the Isorropia Foundation also joined a familiarisation day, enjoying a relaxed morning onboard and speaking with Wightlink staff about any concerns they might have around travelling.

Vicky Shaw-Yates, Community Lead at Isorropia, said: “This opportunity made a real difference to our members. Having the space and time to ask questions, explore the ferry and understand what to expect helps people extend their comfort zones, maintain their wellbeing and enjoy life. We’re grateful to Wightlink for making this possible.”

Healthwatch Isle of Wight also completed a detailed familiarisation visit onboard St Clare to learn more about accessibility provisions across the fleet, including the Calm Room for neurodivergent passengers, the Quiet Lounge, priority seating and companion tickets for medical travel. The team described the experience as encouraging and welcomed Wightlink’s approach.

More familiarisation trips are planned in the months ahead as Wightlink works with local organisations to support passengers with additional needs and ensure everyone can travel with confidence. To find out more visit: https://www.wightlink.co.uk/contact-us/familiarisation-trips