The best Isle of Wight boat trips

The Isle of Wight, surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Solent, offers a variety of exciting boat trips and cruises. From leisurely sightseeing tours to sailing adventures, there's an Isle of Wight boat trip for everyone.

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If you want to explore the Island from a new perspective, we’ve listed all the best Isle of Wight boat trips to suit your every need.

Isle of Wight boat trips and cruises

First, here are the most popular Isle of Wight boat trips and cruises if you want a more leisurely boat trip around the Island.

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Needles Pleasure Cruises

Needles Pleasure Cruises offers an iconic Isle of Wight experience, taking you to some of the Island’s most famous landmarks. These trips take you close to the famed Needles rocks and lighthouse, providing stunning views of the Island's western coastline and Alum Bay cliffs.

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The knowledgeable crew offers commentary on the area's history and geology, making it both an entertaining and educational trip for the whole family.

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Sunset cruise, Cowes

This cruise from Cowes is hard to beat for a romantic sunset tour of the Solent. As day turns to night, you'll sail along the water, watching the sun dip below the horizon as you float along the waves. Many of these cruises offer refreshments, making for a perfect evening out.

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Waverley Paddle Steamer tour

The Waverley, the world's last seagoing paddle steamer, visits the Isle of Wight in September. When available, a trip on this historic vessel offers a unique perspective on coastal cruising, with the bonus of beautiful views of the Island and mainland.

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Coral Star

The Coral Star offers various boat trips from Yarmouth, including coastal cruises and trips to the Needles. Their comfortable boat provides a smooth ride, and their experienced crew ensures an informative and enjoyable Isle of Wight boat trip.

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Rebel Marine

Based in East Cowes, Rebel Marine offers a range of boat trips, including high-speed RIB rides from any port in The Solent and more leisurely cruises. These Isle of Wight boat trips often include opportunities to spot wildlife such as dolphins and seals, free pictures of you and your family on the boat, and visits to secluded beaches.

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Cowes Harbour trip

One of the Solent Cruises, a Cowes Harbour trip, is perfect for those interested in maritime history and modern sailing. These tours navigate through one of the world's most famous sailing ports, where the world’s largest sailing regatta is held. From here, you can see luxurious yachts and historic buildings along the bustling waterfront.

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Ventnor Bay Charters

Operating from the Island's southern coast, Ventnor Bay Charters offers trips to the iconic St. Catherine lighthouse, hidden gem destinations or personalised boat trips tailored to your preferences. Their local knowledge allows them to showcase unique coastal geology up close along the coastline, including secluded coves and cliffs, over an hour-long trip on a 12-passenger catamaran.

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Sailing and adventure boat trips in the Isle of Wight

If it’s sailing and more adventurous Isle of Wight boat trips you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered.

Isle of Wight adventure activities

While not quite a boat trip in the Isle of Wight, these water activities are essential for all adrenaline-seekers. 

Many companies offer action-packed experiences like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and coasteering, allowing you to explore the Island's coastline from a different perspective.

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Windward sailing

Find sailing experiences for all levels with Windward Sailing. From beginners to experienced sailors, you can learn new skills or enjoy the thrill of sailing in the Solent, one of the world's premier sailing destinations.

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Salty – Sailing and powerboat experience

Salty offers sailing and powerboat lessons, races, and trips on the Isle of Wight. Their trips include everything from gentle cruises to high-speed thrills, showcasing the beauty of the Island's waters.

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Bayside Beach Hire

While not an Isle of Wight boat trip provider per se, Bayside Beach Hire offers equipment rentals for those who want to explore the waters independently. They provide kayaks, paddleboards, and small boats, perfect for short excursions from the beach with the family.

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Wight Water Adventure Watersports

Wight Water Adventure Watersports offers a range of boat trips in the Isle of Wight, including jet ski safaris, kayak hire, wakeboarding and more. These high-energy experiences provide an adrenaline-fuelled way to explore the Island's coastline.

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Fishing boat trips in the Isle of Wight

For a unique Isle of Wight boat trip, why not give fishing boat trips a go? Here are some of our favourites:

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Catchalot Charters

Catchalot Charters specialises in fishing trips around the Isle of Wight. Licensed to carry 12 people, they cater to all levels of experience, from novices to seasoned anglers. Their trips offer the chance to catch various species while enjoying the Island's beautiful coastal scenery.

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Tackt Isle Adventures

While primarily known for its watersports and sailing, Tackt Isle Adventures also provides fishing trips. These excursions combine the excitement of fishing with the opportunity to learn about the local marine environment.

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What makes Isle of Wight boat trips unique

Isle of Wight boat trips offer a unique experience due to the Island's location and rich maritime history. The Solent, with its challenging tides and winds, has long been a sailing hotspot, attracting visitors from all around the world. 

The Island's diverse coastline, ranging from chalk cliffs to sandy beaches, provides a constantly changing backdrop for boat trips in the Isle of Wight. 

But that’s not all. The waters around the Isle of Wight are rich in wildlife, offering chances to spot dolphins, seals, and a variety of seabirds, making Isle of Wight boat trips the perfect way to make memories on your family holiday.

The Island's connection to British naval history adds an extra layer to many Isle of Wight boat trips. So, whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or education, these trips will surely offer an unforgettable way to experience this Island from a different perspective.

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