Floating Bridge To Run Extended Hours During Cowes Week

The Cowes Floating Bridge will operate longer opening hours throughout Cowes Week to help cope with the thousands of extra journeys expected during the world-renowned sailing regatta.

The extended timetable will run from Friday, July 31, to Saturday, August 8, giving residents, competitors and visitors more opportunities to travel between Cowes and East Cowes.

During the event, the Floating Bridge will depart Cowes from 5am until 1.25am each day, apart from Sunday, August 2, when the first crossing will be at 6.30am.

From East Cowes, sailings will operate from 5.10am until 1.20am, with the first departure at 6.40am on Sunday, August 2.

Special arrangements will also be introduced for the Cowes Week fireworks display on Friday, August 7.

From around 6pm, the Floating Bridge will carry pedestrians only, with vehicle crossings resuming once it is safe to do so following the event.

The service will return to its normal timetable on Sunday, August 9, with the first crossing leaving at 6.30am.

Michelle Love, the Isle of Wight Council's Service Director for Highways and Community Protection, said:

"Cowes Week is one of the Isle of Wight's flagship events, attracting thousands of competitors and visitors to the Island each year.

"The extended Floating Bridge timetable will help people travel safely and conveniently between Cowes and East Cowes throughout the week, while the dedicated pedestrian service on fireworks night will support the large crowds expected on the waterfront.

"We would encourage passengers to plan ahead, allow extra time for busy periods and check the latest service information before travelling."

Passengers are advised to check for the latest service updates before travelling during Cowes Week.