Wightlink Urges More Young Islanders To Take Up Free Mainland Travel Scheme

Wightlink is encouraging more young Islanders to take advantage of its free travel scheme after almost 10,000 journeys have already been issued since it launched in June 2025.

The initiative provides 16 and 17-year-olds in sixth form education, training or apprenticeships with two free return foot passenger journeys to the mainland each academic year.

It is designed to help young people access opportunities for work, education, training and leisure beyond the Solent.

Despite thousands of crossings already being booked, the ferry operator says many eligible teenagers are still yet to use the scheme.

The programme was developed in partnership with the Isle of Wight Youth Trust, following discussions around the barriers some young Islanders face when travelling off-Island.

David Williams, head of marketing at Wightlink, said the scheme has already helped young people attend open days, gain work experience, visit friends and explore new opportunities.

He said there are still many eligible young people who have not used their free tickets and urged them to do so, saying the scheme can help build confidence and independence.

The Isle of Wight Youth Trust said the initiative is helping young people access opportunities they may otherwise miss due to cost or lack of confidence when travelling.

Charlotte Andrews, chair of the Youth Trust Taskforce, said travelling to the mainland can feel like a big step for some young people, but added that it often becomes easier and opens doors to new experiences once they take that first journey.

She encouraged young Islanders to make use of the scheme, saying they should not feel nervous about trying something new.

Young people receive their travel codes through their school, college or training provider, with further details available on Wightlink’s website.