Southampton - East Cowes
Ferry to Isle of Wight
Southampton - East Cowes
Ferry to Isle of Wight
Ferries from Southampton to East Cowes are operated by 1 ferry company; Red Funnel. The journey usually takes around 1 hour. There are currently 117 weekly sailings on this ferry route. Prices start from as little as £6. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability and book your ferry to East Cowes today.
Southampton East Cowes ferry prices typically range between £6* and £242*. The average price is typically £154*. The cheapest Southampton East Cowes ferry prices start from £6*. The average price for a foot passenger is £41*. The average price for a car is £166*.
Pricing will vary depending on number of passengers, vehicle type, route and sailing times. Pricing is taken from searches over last 30 days and exclusive of service fees, last updated August 26.
We offer a quick and easy way to compare ferry tickets and prices, helping you find the journey that suits you best. Check out our Special Offers page for discounts on select routes and operators. Remember to book early to secure the best prices and availability! For more budget-friendly tips, check out our guide.
Yes, Direct Ferries offers a wide range of discounts all year around. When searching for ferries, any senior discounts will be applied automatically if they are available. Just select your age range from the passenger options.
Students and graduates can get a 5% discount on ferry tickets. To take advantage of the discount, you need to register with our partner Student Beans to confirm your student or graduate status. You will then receive a discount code which can be entered during the payment process.
Resident discounts are available on a variety of Spanish and Italian ferry routes. Just click on the "Residents" option when this is displayed. The discount is automatically applied to the price. Bear in mind that proof of registration or an identity card with the correct address must be shown at check-in.
The Southampton to East Cowes ferry times may vary depending on the ferry operator and season you’re travelling in. Sailings are usually more frequent during the peak summer months, whilst schedules may be reduced during the off-season. We recommend searching for your preferred travel dates to view the most up-to-date ferry timetable.
The first Southampton East Cowes ferry usually departs from Southampton at around 03:00. The last ferry usually departs at 23:59.
Yes, you can take a day trip from Southampton to Cowes by ferry. Take an early ferry and give yourself the whole day to explore Isle of Wight before getting your return sailing.
Yes, you can take a day trip between Southampton and East Cowes. Day trips from Southampton to East Cowes by ferry are very popular due to the short journey time and frequent daily crossings. We'd recommend getting an early ferry there and a late ferry back to really make the most of your time on the Isle of Wight. Looking for inspiration? Check out our guide on things to do on the Isle of Wight.
Yes, Red Funnel allow cars on board ferries between Southampton and East Cowes. The average price for a car is £166. Check out our Deal Finder for the latest prices.
Here are our top tips for travelling with a car:
Read our guide to travelling with a vehicle for more information.
Whether you can bring your campervan on the ferry from Southampton to East Cowes depends on various factors such as the ship and operator of your preferred crossing. To find out if you can take your campervan on board, just enter your details and we’ll compare operators on your selected route.
Visit our blog or check out our caravan guide for more practical tips and travel inspiration.
Yes, you can bring a bicycle on a ferry from Southampton to East Cowes with Red Funnel. In general, most ferry companies allow bicycles on board, but it is always best to check the operator’s bicycle policy to avoid any bad surprises at the departure port. For more information, check out our guide to taking your bicycle on board.
Yes, foot passengers can travel with Red Funnel ferries between Southampton and East Cowes. Prices for foot passengers start from £7.
Pets are currently not allowed on board ferries from Southampton to East Cowes. Use our Deal Finder to find alternative routes that offer travel options for pets.
Please note that even if pets are not allowed on board, different regulations may apply to passengers travelling with guide dogs and assistance dogs. We recommend talking to our customer service to check the specific rules on your preferred sailing. For general information on travelling with assistance dogs and guide dogs, visit our Special Assistance Help page and our dedicated Accessible Ferry Travel guide.
As the journey is only short, there are no overnight sailings available on this route. The last ferry to Cowes currently departs at 23:59.
The best way to travel from Southampton to Cowes is by ferry. With frequent sailings throughout the day, you're bound to find a suitable ferry crossing to suit your needs. However, there are alternative routes to explore if you require additional flexibility.
Ferries from Southampton to East Cowes take 1 hour on average.
How early you need to arrive at Southampton ferry port depends on the ferry company you are travelling with and how you are travelling, so it’s always best to check your booking confirmation in advance.
Southampton ferry port is easy to navigate, with clear signs directing you where to go. Even so, arriving early is essential for a smooth and stress-free journey, especially during the peak summer months or at weekends.
As a general guide, we recommend arriving 45–60 minutes before departure if you’re travelling as a foot passenger. If you’re bringing a car or campervan, aim to arrive at least 60–90 minutes in advance to allow time for check-in and vehicle procedures.
You can use our Deal Finder to check whether first-class travel is available on your selected route. Many ferry operators offer first-class options, providing a more premium and comfortable experience.
Facilities vary depending on the operator and ship but often include priority boarding and access to exclusive lounges with spacious seating, power sockets and speedy Wi-Fi. On some routes, first class may also include complimentary meals, drinks, or snacks. For longer or overnight crossings, you may have the option of upgrading to premium cabins with sea views and better amenities.
There are several car parks located within walking distance of the terminal, including Triangle Car Park and Ocean Car Park. Short-term parking is also available at Town Quay.
If you’re looking for accommodation near the port of Southampton before your journey, be sure to check out our Accommodation page for the best deals and prices. You’ll find a wide range of options to suit different budgets and travel styles.
Staying close to the port can make your journey much more relaxing – just wake up and head straight to your ferry! We recommend booking as early as possible to secure the cheapest prices and availability, especially during peak travel periods when accommodation can fill up quickly.
Many ferry operators aim to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility, but facilities can vary by ship. For more information, we recommend checking directly with the ferry operator you are travelling with.
Ferries are often equipped with facilities such as step-free access, accessible cabins and toilets and dedicated seating areas. If you require assistance on board, then make sure you let the ferry operator know well in advance, so they make any special arrangements to ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible. For more information, see our guide to accessible ferry travel.
The facilities available on board the ferry to East Cowes depend on the operator and the vessel you’re travelling on, so it’s a good idea to check in advance what to expect. Longer crossings typically offer a wider range of facilities, including comfortable cabins, multiple dining options, pet-friendly amenities and onboard entertainment.
Accommodation and seating on ferries from Southampton to East Cowes vary depending on the ferry operator and the length of the journey. Prices can also differ based on the operator, sailing time, and season.
Luggage allowances on ferries between Southampton and East Cowes can vary depending on the operator. Whilst many ferries don’t have strict limits, it’s always best to check in advance, as larger or additional items may incur an extra fee. If you’re travelling with a vehicle, you’ll usually be able to bring more luggage with you.
The Southampton to East Cowes ferry arrives at the East Cowes Terminal on the Isle of White. The centre of East Cowes is just a short walk from the ferry terminal where you'll find a wide range of amenities. You can also reach West Cowes via the Floating Bridge. Check out our guide on things to do in Cowes.
The time it takes to disembark the ferry from Southampton to East Cowes can vary depending on the ferry operator, the size of the ship, and the number of passengers and vehicles on board.
Foot passengers generally disembark the quickest, usually within 10 to 20 minutes, whilst passengers with vehicles often have to wait slightly longer, usually around 20 to 45 minutes. However, the exact times depend on the size of the ferry and how busy it is.
When travelling to Isle of Wight, there are a few things to bear in mind:
Although it’s sometimes possible to buy tickets at the port on the day of travel, we recommend booking your sailing in advance. Ferry crossings can fill up quickly, especially during peak summer periods or on weekends.
Booking your ferry tickets to East Cowes ahead of time allows you to secure your preferred sailing and often save money, as prices tend to be lower the earlier you book. If you’re travelling with a vehicle, it’s especially important to reserve in advance to guarantee a space on board.
How early you need to arrive at the ferry port depends on the ferry company you’re travelling with, so it’s always best to check with your ferry operator in advance. The latest check-in time for your Southampton to East Cowes ferry booking will often be included in your booking confirmation email.
Check-in times can vary depending on whether you’re travelling as a foot passenger or with a vehicle, with those travelling with cars, campervans or caravans usually required to arrive earlier. Either way, we’d recommend allowing plenty of time for check-in especially during peak season.
To book your ferry tickets, simply enter your departure and arrival ports along with your preferred travel date to see all available options and prices. You’ll also be able to view alternative routes and times, so you can find the best deal to suit you.
Look out for early booking discounts or special ticket options such as upgrades or flexi-tickets that allow you to change or cancel your booking. To make your sailing as smooth as possible, make sure you enter all the required information correctly, such as the number of passengers and vehicle specifications.
Tip: For more information, check out our guide on Booking and Boarding a Ferry and Frequently Asked Questions page.
Once you’ve finalised your booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email. It depends on the ferry operator you book with as to how your boarding pass is issued and collected.
Whilst some ferry operators issue the boarding pass as soon as your booking is confirmed, others may ask you to check in at the port. There’s also the option for online check-in, which can be done easily via the Direct Ferries app, if available.
The ticket desks are usually located near the ferry terminals. To avoid any delays at the port, we’d recommend allowing some extra time to collect your tickets and to check-in.
During check-in, you’ll need to show your email confirmation along with an official photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. If you booked your ticket with a resident discount, proof of residence may also be required. If you’re travelling with a pet, you may also be asked to provide documentation showing their vaccinations and insurance.
There could be various reasons why there are no departures from Southampton to East Cowes for the date you’ve requested. Possible reasons include:
If your preferred sailing isn’t available, then we’d recommend checking other dates or looking for overnight crossings as these can sometimes be quieter. We’d also recommend looking at alternative departure or arrival ports.
The best time to book ferries from Southampton to East Cowes is usually as early as possible. By booking in advance, you’ll not only get your tickets at the best available prices, but you’ll also get a better choice of departure times and cabin/seating options.
This is particularly important during peak season, when demand is high and popular routes can sell out quickly. Even in the off-season, booking ahead can help you save money.
We’d recommend making your booking at least a few weeks in advance to benefit from the best offers. Bear in mind that prices may vary depending on the season and availability.
Don’t forget to check our Special Offers page for the latest discounts and deals on crossings from Southampton to East Cowes.
Need help? Check out our Ferry Travel FAQs.
More routes than anyone else.
Compare fares, times & routes in one place.
Change plans easily with flexi tickets.
Book e-tickets & manage trips in-app.
Live ship tracking & real-time updates.
Top-rated customer support when you need it.
| Southampton - East Cowes Ferry Route summary | ||
|---|---|---|
| Origin | England | |
| Destination | Isle of Wight | |
| No. of Operators | 1 | |
| Operators | Red Funnel | |
| Average Price | £154 | |
| Average Daily Sailings | 17 | |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 117 | |
| Average Sailing Duration | 1 h | |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 1 h | |
| First Ferry | 03:00 | |
| Last Ferry | 23:59 | |
| Distance | 11 Nautical Miles | |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 August 2026.
Southampton Ferry Port serves as a vibrant maritime hub, offering more than just a departure point for numerous destinations. The city itself brims with cultural and historical richness, featuring the SeaCity Museum, which delves into Southampton's Titanic heritage, and the Southampton City Art Gallery, known for its impressive collection of contemporary art. For those interested in shopping and entertainment, WestQuay is a must-visit. Southampton also hosts the annual Southampton Boat Show, a highlight in the nautical calendar, attracting visitors in September. Conveniently located, the port provides easy travel options to London and the wider South of England via excellent train and coach services. From the ferry port, the city centre is readily accessible by a short taxi ride or bus service, ensuring visitors can seamlessly connect to all local attractions.
From Southampton ferry port, you can easily reach London, Winchester, and Portsmouth within an hour or two by train or car. For those heading into the city centre, the QuayConnect bus service provides a convenient and eco-friendly way to travel, connecting the ferry port to the city's train station. Plus, November is a festive time here, with preparations for the annual Christmas market in full swing, making it a fantastic time to experience the city's festive cheer.
Cowes Ferry Port serves as a vibrant maritime hub, renowned for its sailing heritage and as the principal venue for the world-famous Cowes Week, an annual sailing regatta that takes place every August, drawing enthusiasts and spectators from around the globe. This picturesque town on the Isle of Wight offers visitors a blend of nautical charm and scenic beauty, with attractions like the historic Cowes Castle, housing the Royal Yacht Squadron, and a bustling High Street filled with unique shops and quaint cafes. Easily accessible from the port are other island gems such as Osborne House, Queen Victoria's palatial holiday home, and the stunning seaside at Shanklin. Travel from the port to the town centre is a breeze with frequent bus services and taxi options available, ensuring a smooth transition for visitors. For those looking to explore further afield, the ferry routes also provide convenient links to Southampton and Portsmouth, enhancing Cowes' appeal as a perfect starting point for a broader adventure.
Travelling from Southampton to Cowes: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide
Getting to the Isle of Wight Festival: Travel Tips and Recommendations
Ferry Travel with Pets: Can you take Dogs on Ferries?
Fear of Flying: Travel by Ferry Without Needing to Fly
Ferry Travel: What to Do on Board
How to stay safe while travelling with pets in summer
