How to get to Cowes
With great links to all of the connecting ferry ports it is easy to access the Isle of Wight by train from anywhere in the UK. There are regular ferries to and from the Island and even during Cowes Week there is no need to book as a foot passenger. If you plan to bring a car to the Island remember that parking in Cowes is very limited and bookings are essential.
Trains
The majority of connecting trains to the Isle of Wight are operated by South Western Railway. You can purchase joint train and ferry tickets, and also review train times and information on their website.
+44 345 6000 650
Car Ferry
Red Funnel Ferries
Terminal 1, Dock Gate 7 off Town Quay Road, SO14 2AL
The car ferry runs from Southampton to East Cowes. The journey takes 55 minutes and departures are every hour in the summer. The terminal in Southampton is very easy to get to, just follow the A303/A36 or A35/A31 from the West, the M3/A34/M40 from the North or M27/A27/A3 from the East. A floating bridge for both foot passengers and vehicles connects East and West Cowes across the River Medina
+44 844 844 9988 & +44 7496 363369
Foot Passengers
Red Jet Hi-Speed Service
Terminal 2, Town Quay, SO14 2AQ
The Red Jet runs from Southampton to West Cowes.There are sailings every 30 minutes at peak times including Saturdays and every 60 minutes at off-peak times. The crossing takes under 25 minutes at speeds up to 40 knots!
Red Jet timetables are available here .
+44 844 844 9988 & +44 7496 363369
Parking
If you do decide to bring your car across to the Island for the regatta, or if you are planning on driving across to Cowes from another Island location, then parking is provided in the grassed areas at Northwood House (off Ward Avenue), courtesy of the Northwood House Trustees and Cowes Carnival. All proceeds go to the restoration of Northwood House.
