Hi can someone please help with a little advice. I m thinking of going to the Isle of Wight this summer with my trailer tent but have never drove on to a ferry. I am not the greatest tower in the world alright going forward but backwards not the best. Is the ferry a straight drive on and drive off or is there some manoeuvring involved.
Yes the ferries across the Solent are straightforward roll on and roll off, no need to reverse. Just follow the signals of the loading crew and take it slowly on the loading ramps. We'd never been on a ferry and didn't know what to expect but it's very easy and we've done it loads of times now.
Where are you thinking of going to? You may see us there sometime this summer, we haven't been since last year so we're looking forward to it already.
We prefer the area around Sandown and Bembridge. Both clubs have sites on that part of the island and there are several commercial sites. There is a big THS every summer at Whitecliff Bay where you can use the bar and restaurant facilities at the commercial site next door.
I suppose it depends what you like doing, Ryde and Cowes have lots of restaurants, Newport has big shops for wet weather days, there is a steam railway and all the usual touristy things. The beaches are better on the south coast if you like water activities the annual round the island yacht race is quite spectacular. There are loads of paths and bridleways if you like walking and cycling, if you stay at the CCC site outside Sandown it's easy to walk or cycle to the beach.
If the weather is ok we often walk from the Yaverland end of Sandown along the seafront past Sandown pier and go on to Shanklin. There are a few cafes on the route for refreshments and we return to the kiosk at Yaverland which sells home made rock cakes.
Hope this helps. When are you thinking of going? The ferry is expensive but if you can cross at the cheaper times it's a lot better.
Thanks Rob that gives us some ideas, we always go away end of August round the bank holiday normally Devon Cornwall Somerset or Dorset thought we would like to try I O W as this will probably be our last camping under canvas trip.
We use the Lymington to Yarmouth crossing which is quiet and easy to use. Anywhere on the island is lovely but Southland C&MHC near Sandown is superb.Other campsites are available! Have a great holiday!