Ferries run from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton 7 days a week, all year round. The first ferry of the day departs from East Cowes, Isle of Wight at 01:30, and the last at 23:30. The fastest ferry can reach Southampton in just 1h , while on average the journey takes around 1h 33min. One-way tickets start at just €9.00 and can cost up to €27.20. From June to September, there are about 64 weekly crossings; from October to May, this drops to around 74. Book your ferry tickets to Southampton online with Ferryscanner for the most convenience and best price guarantee.

Ferry companies from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton

You can reach Southampton from East Cowes, Isle of Wight with Red Funnel. The table below shows weekly crossings by available companies for the upcoming week, sorted by average ticket price (lowest first) to help you choose the best option.

Last Update: 05/08/2026

East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton ferry schedule

The ferry schedule for East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton varies according to the company and season. An overview of key details for planning your trip:

EARLIEST FERRY
01:30
LATEST FERRY
23:30
FASTEST CROSSING
1h 0m
DURATION
1h 0m
FREQUENCY
Daily
NUMBER OF STOPS
0
PRICE RANGE
ROUTE DISTANCE
15.43km / 8.32nm
Aerial view of a large ferry approaching a busy passenger port in a coastal city.

Can I take a ferry from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton?

Yes, ferries run between East Cowes, Isle of Wight and Southampton. This route is operated by Red Funnel, and takes around 1h 33min on average. Ferries are available .

Traveler enjoying sunset views from a ferry deck during a sea crossing.

How long is the ferry from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton?

The ferry journey from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton usually takes 1h 33min, with the fastest ferry getting there in just 1h , and the longest ferry in 1h .

Ferry times can vary depending on the ferry company, weather conditions, and whether you opt to take a high-speed service or not.

When you book your ferry with Ferryscanner from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton, our system will automatically recommend the best option for you. We use a smart algorithm that takes the most direct routes, ferry speed, e-ticket availability and the best arrival and departure times into account, to help you find the most convenient option for your journey.

Fastest ferry from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton

The fastest ferry from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton is RORO, operated by Red Funnel, which takes just 1h .

Can you do a day trip from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton?

Yes, you should be able to make a day trip from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton and back. The fastest ferry gets there in just 1h , which ought to give you enough time to explore and make it back the same day. Check availability on our ferry search and booking system to plan your itinerary and book your tickets. Pay close attention to the first and last ferry times from Southampton to East Cowes, Isle of Wight to make the most of your day out!

Are there overnight ferries from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton?

No, unfortunately there are no night ferries from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton. Check out the daytime sailing options to plan your trip with convenience and flexibility.

This summary for the East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton route is based on recent data and is updated regularly. However, schedules may vary depending on seasonal changes, ferry companies, and availability. For the most accurate and detailed ferry timetable, including routes, stops, and pricing, check out our ferry search and booking system.

Close to Southampton, Nearby Destinations Worth Exploring

The port(s) of Southampton is your gateway to nearby destinations, making it perfect for day trips or quick getaways. These destinations are all within 100 km or under 2 hours of travel time from Southampton, making them ideal for island hopping or more ferry adventures in United Kingdom.

Man sitting on a cliff with a laptop, looking out over the sea near sunset.

East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton ferry ticket prices, offers and discounts

Ferry ticket prices from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton typically range from €9.00 to €27.20 for foot passengers and on average €0.00 for vehicles, with additional costs for cabins or premium seating options. Prices vary depending on the type of ticket and ferry company. Book your ticket as early as you can to make sure you get the best price, as fares tend to increase the closer you get to your departure date. Remember to check any specific restrictions ferry operators might have on this route, such as only accepting foot passengers or requiring a vehicle to board.

Ferry Offers

Special offers may be available on the East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton route, depending on the time of year and the ferry company. These can include early booking discounts or limited-time promotional deals. To stay updated, follow the Ferryscanner blog, check our social media pages, or subscribe to our newsletter. Any valid offers are applied automatically during booking, so you’ll always get the best price for your trip to Southampton.

Choose your ferry from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton

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How to get from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton

To get from East Cowes on the Isle of Wight to Southampton, the ferry is your best bet, leaving from East Cowes Ferry Terminal. It's conveniently located near the town center, making it easy to reach by foot or local bus. Frequent services offer quick transfers, typically taking around an hour to reach the other side, with buses running regularly to connect you to the terminal.

At Southampton, you will arrive at the West Gate. While details may vary, this area generally provides ample facilities for travelers. It's a good idea to keep an eye on ticket displays for any changes to departure schedules. Remember to arrive early to navigate any potential queues or updates for your journey.

Close-up of a traveler sitting on a suitcase next to a parked car, ready to depart.

Traveling from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton as a foot passenger or with a vehicle

Ferries from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton allow foot passengers. Wheelchair accessibility is typically available, but we recommend contacting our support team to make sure and confirm specific services. Please aim to arrive at your boarding gate at least 60 minutes before departure. Our Flexi Cancellation and SMS Notification Packages will cover you in the event of any unforeseen or last minute changes, which you can select during the booking process.

View of multiple cars parked on a ferry deck during a sea crossing.

Are cars allowed on the ferries from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton?

Cars are allowed on certain ferries from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton, and can be booked through Ferryscanner. Ferries and companies that accommodate cars:

  • RORO- Red Funnel

Vehicle transportation prices depend on the type of vehicle, ferry company, and season, with prices starting from €0.00. For unaccompanied vehicles, contact our support team for details.

Motorcycle

Motorcycles are allowed on RORO ferries from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton. Adding a motorcycle to your Ferryscanner booking is simple, and pricing is tailored specifically for two-wheel vehicles.

Bicycle

Bicycles are usually allowed on ferries from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton and are often transported for free. Fees, if applicable, will appear during the booking process. Ferries that allow bicycles on board are RORO.

Luggage on board

When traveling from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton, ferry companies typically allow passengers to bring luggage on board without additional charges.

Luggage Allowance: Most ferry companies permit 1 piece of luggage weighing up to 50 kg. When you book with us, your luggage allowance is always clearly stated, so there are no surprises even if policies vary between ferry companies and vessels. Per ferry:

  • RoRo: Up to 0kg per passenger.

It’s a good idea to label your luggage clearly, and make sure you place it in the designated storage area indicated to you by the crew on board. Note that if you’re taking oversized or extra luggage with you, your ferry company may charge you an additional fee.

If you have any doubts, we recommend checking the dedicated ferry company page on our website for detailed luggage information. You can also get in touch with our support team for further assistance.

Cabins on board

Unfortunately, there are no cabins available on the ferries from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton. Don’t worry, though, you’ll find plenty of comfortable lounge or airplane-style seating on board for your relaxation and comfort.

Can I bring my pet on board?

Yes, pets are allowed on ferries from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton, but specific policies vary by ferry company. General guidelines:

  • Pets over 10 kg must be kept in the ship’s onboard kennels; pets under 10 kg can stay in their owner’s pet carrier.
  • Service dogs are exempt from kennel requirements.
  • Ensure you have all the necessary documents, tickets, and pet essentials for your trip.

If you're unsure about your ferry's policy, we recommend checking the ferry company's page on our website for detailed information. You can also reach out to our support team if you need further assistance.

Crystal-clear waters and a secluded beach with pine trees and rocky coastline under a bright blue sky.

Travel smart from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton • Insider tips for your trip

Make your journey from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton enjoyable with these handy tips for a safe and pleasant trip!

Safety: Ferries on this route follow strict safety measures, ensuring a reliable experience as you set sail.

Parking: Ample parking is available at East Cowes. Arrive early to secure your spot, especially on busy weekends.

Scenic Views: Don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the Solent! Keep your camera ready as you cruise towards Southampton.

Tickets: Book your ferry tickets in advance for the best rates. Use the Ferryscanner app for easy booking and live updates.

Onboard Dining: There are tasty dining options available. Consider bringing your own snacks and water for added convenience.

Dress Appropriately: Depending on the season, bring sunscreen for sunny days or a light jacket for the cool breeze on deck.

Outdoor Spaces: Enjoy the fresh air but be mindful of wind on the outside decks. Indoor spaces may feel a bit chilly, so layer up.

Explore the vibrant city of Southampton, where history meets modern charm.

Culture: Don’t miss the historic sites like the old city walls and the fascinating SeaCity Museum.

Shopping: Stroll through the Westquay shopping center for a mix of shops and local specialties.

Visit our blog for more tips and ideas to make the most of your trip to Southampton.

View of a busy ferry port with multiple ships docked along the waterfront of a coastal city.

Finding your way to East Cowes, Isle of Wight ferry port

To reach the East Cowes ferry terminal on the Isle of Wight, head to the waterfront area near the end of the Medina Road, just a short walk from East Cowes town center. It’s approximately 2 miles from Cowes and about 10 miles from Ryde, making it easily accessible. You can take a bus directly to East Cowes, or opt for a taxi from nearby towns. If driving, follow the A3020 to East Cowes, where there is parking available.

The Southampton ferry terminal is located at Town Quay, conveniently near the city center and easily accessible by public transport, taxis, or walking from the main shopping areas.

Please note that transport schedules can change, so it’s a good idea to check current services before your journey. If you spot any inconsistencies in this info, don’t hesitate to let us know through our support team.

Exploring Southampton

Exploring Southampton is like going on an exciting adventure full of history and fun! This city is famous for its rich maritime history and is home to the SeaCity Museum, where you can learn all about ships and the Titanic. If you love the beach, visit the long and lovely beaches at Weston Shore, perfect for a sunny day of sand and sea.

One of the coolest things to do is to walk along the old city walls, where you can imagine knights and castles from long ago. If you're feeling outdoorsy, head to the beautiful parks like Hoglands Park, where you can have a picnic and enjoy the fresh air. Food lovers will adore trying local treats like fish and chips or tasty ice cream from the shops along the waterfront.

Southampton is not just a destination by itself; it's also a great starting point for exploring nearby islands like the Isle of Wight. Whether you stay for a short visit or longer, there’s always something fun to see and do in this charming city!

For more detailed information about Southampton, including top attractions, activities, and travel tips, check out our dedicated guide: Ferry to Southampton.
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Available ferries from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton

See the ferries traveling from East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton, along with possible alternatives like helicopters.

Visualize your trip: East Cowes, Isle of Wight to Southampton ferry map