Something to keep you occupied down Portsmouth

[73109]

Freedom 90

Island Express

Solent Express

A Few Facts on the Hovercraft,

Freedom 90 has had mods and under trial exceeded 60 Knots Speed

Island Express joined Hovertravel about 2002

Solent Express is a new Larger more powerfull craft Made by hoverwork IOW

[ashurstdave]

Good action photos. Whilst fast crafts were developed from the original hovercrafts, they did not seem to ever be very robust in rough weather conditions. I recall one particular Fast Craft ride ( P & O Ferries) from Portsmouth to Cherbourg in July 1999, and it was an awful trip - at one point felt as though it was to turn over, it was that rough. Passengers had to remain seated and the buffets and bars had to close as it was too dangerous to stand up and serve. I and the other passengers were very relieved to arrive safely at Cherbourg.

I remember riding on the Southampton to Cowes Hovercraft which was operated by Seaspeed. It went from the pontoon where the Itchen Bridge is situated in Southampton. It only lasted a short period of time. I will try and dig out the slides I took on the last day.

The Southsea - Ryde hovercraft service must be the longest running route for them in the World? I assume there must be enough business to keep them running. The fastcraft from Portsmouth Harbour to Ryde Pier have not had a 100% reliabilty and often I hear on the travel news that they are cancelled also in rough weather.

My favourite Isle of Wight service is Lymington Pier to Yarmouth! The current three ferries are to be replaced soon, so get your trip in and photos soon!