New Hovercraft Route Launches Across the Solent

A brand new hovercraft route has launched across the Solent, connecting Lee-on-the-Solent in Hampshire with Ryde on the Isle of Wight. This trial service, operated by Hovertravel Limited, departs from the slipway at the Hovercraft Museum. The route is being trialled to gauge public interest for a potential permanent service. The first flight took place on Sunday 28 June 2026, and because the initial flight sold out in just 30 minutes, extra sailings were added to the schedule. The upcoming trial flights are set for 9 July, 23 July, 7 August, 21 August, 22 August, and 5 September 2026. The crossing takes approximately 15 minutes, offering a fast alternative to traditional ferry services. For booking inquiries, you can contact info@hovertravel.com.

This trial has received backing from local officials who see it as a way to improve connectivity and boost the local economy. Caroline Dinenage, MP for Gosport, stated that the trial could change how local waterways are viewed, noting that the waters around the Gosport peninsula have often been seen as obstacles rather than connectors. Councillor Lesley Meenaghan also supported the trial for its potential economic and tourism benefits, highlighting its alignment with the regeneration of the former HMS Daedalus, a 42-acre mixed-use development. The site of the new hovercraft route is part of this major redevelopment project, known as Daedalus Waterfront, which aims to restore historic buildings, including World War One hangars, while creating a mixed-use community with homes and employment space.

Hovertravel Limited, the operator behind the trial, is the world's oldest hovercraft company and the only scheduled passenger hovercraft service in Western Europe. Founded on 14 June 1965, it began its cross-Solent services in July 1965. Its main service connects Southsea Common with Ryde Transport Interchange in just under 10 minutes. The current fleet consists of two 12000TD hovercraft from Griffon Hoverwork, named Solent Flyer and Island Flyer. Each craft has 78 seats, is propelled by diesel engines, and can reach speeds of up to 40 knots.

The departure point at Lee-on-the-Solent is also home to the Hovercraft Museum, the only hovercraft museum in the world. Located at Building 40, Daedalus Site, Argus Gate, Chalk Lane, the museum is a volunteer-run registered charity housing over 60 full-size hovercraft. This includes the last remaining SR.N4 craft, which is the world's largest civil hovercraft. The museum is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm, and visits are by prior booking only, with entry via the slipway gate of Marine Parade West.