The Portsmouth-Fishbourne car ferry route is celebrating 100 years of service this month, but its story stretches back more than two centuries, reflecting the evolution of travel between the Isle of Wight and the mainland.
Early Crossings – 1825 to 1925
The origins of the route date back to 1825, when steam-powered vessels began transporting horse-drawn carriages and livestock between Portsmouth and Ryde. Wooden tow boats, pulled by tug steamers, operated between slipways at George Street in Ryde and Broad Street in Portsmouth.
By 1912, the service had grown significantly, with 742 cars carried and up to 26 sailings a day. Nearly 2,000 vehicles were transported in 1925 alone, marking the final full year before a major change in how the route operated.
The move to Fishbourne – 1926
A defining moment came on 15th March 1926 when the service transferred to Fishbourne. Within months, demand surged, with more than 4,000 cars using the new link in its first year.
In 1927, the first purpose-built car ferry, MV Fishbourne, entered service, carrying up to 16 cars and 100 passengers. Additional vessels quickly followed as the popularity of motor travel increased.
War and Recovery – 1939 to 1950s
During World War Two, the route played a crucial role in the war effort. Ferries were adapted for military use, with vessels sent to assist in the Dunkirk evacuation and later used to transport equipment as the Isle of Wight was closed to visitors.
Following the war, the return of normal service in 1945 and the end of petrol rationing in 1950 led to a steady recovery. The rise of car ownership in the 1950s signalled a new era of demand.
Modernisation and Growth – 1960s to 1980s
The 1960s saw major investment, including a new terminal at Camber Docks in Portsmouth and upgraded facilities at Fishbourne. Larger vessels were introduced, increasing both vehicle and passenger capacity.
By the 1980s, the route had undergone significant transformation with the introduction of ‘super ferries’, capable of carrying hundreds of passengers and vehicles. The opening of the Gunwharf terminal in 1982 and continued infrastructure upgrades improved efficiency and capacity.
The birth of Wightlink – 1990
Wightlink was officially launched as a company in 1990, marking a new chapter for the route as an independent operator. Investment continued throughout the decade, with the company strengthening its position as a key transport provider for the Isle of Wight.
The introduction of St Clare in 2001 brought increased capacity and improved onboard facilities, forming a key part of the modern fleet.
Investment in infrastructure and efficiency has continued in recent years. In 2016, St Clare’s car deck was extended to enable double deck loading, followed by major upgrades to linkspans at Fishbourne and Gunwharf in 2017 to support faster turnaround times.
A significant technological step came in 2018 with the launch of Victoria of Wight, the UK’s first large hybrid ferry, reducing fuel consumption and signalling a move towards more sustainable operations.
Like many transport operators, Wightlink faced unprecedented disruption during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, with services reduced to essential travel only. Operations returned to normal in 2022 as restrictions were lifted.
Looking to the Future
Today, the Portsmouth-Fishbourne route remains a vital lifeline for the Isle of Wight, supporting residents, businesses and tourism.
As it marks its centenary in 2026, the focus is now on the future, with continued investment and new vessels expected to shape the next chapter of cross-Solent travel.
To find out more about 100 years of the Portsmouth–Fishbourne route, visit https://www.wightlink.co.uk/about-wightlink/portsmouth-fishbourne-100-anniversary.
