Wightlink urges more young Islanders to use its free mainland travel scheme

Since launching its youth travel initiative in June 2025, Wightlink has now issued almost 10,000 free travel codes to 16 and 17-year-olds on the Isle of Wight – but the ferry operator says many young people are still yet to take advantage of the scheme.

The initiative offers every eligible Island teenager in sixth form education, training or apprenticeships two free return foot passenger journeys to the mainland each academic year, helping young people access opportunities for work, education, training and leisure beyond the Solent.

The scheme was developed and launched by Wightlink in partnership with the Isle of Wight Youth Trust, following discussions with youth organisations about the barriers some young Islanders face when travelling to the mainland and accessing opportunities beyond the Island.

Thousands of crossings have been booked through the scheme, and Wightlink is keen to see even more young Islanders take advantage of the free travel available to them.

David Williams, Wightlink’s head of marketing said: “We are really pleased that so many young people have already used the scheme to travel to the mainland for education, work experience, open days, social opportunities and simply to explore somewhere new.

“However, we know there are still many eligible young people who haven’t yet used their free tickets and we would strongly encourage them to do so.

“Whether it’s attending an open day, visiting friends, going to a concert, exploring career opportunities or just gaining confidence travelling independently, we want young people to make the most of these free crossings.”

Paul Savill, network, information and engagement coordinator at the Isle of Wight Youth Trust said: “We were pleased to work alongside Wightlink on developing this initiative because we know the cost and confidence involved in travelling to the mainland can sometimes prevent young people from accessing valuable opportunities.

“Schemes like this can make a real difference by helping young people build independence, experience new environments and feel more connected to opportunities beyond the Island.”

Young people eligible for the initiative receive the codes through their school, college or training provider, with the crossings valid on foot passenger travel between the Isle of Wight and the mainland. Further details about eligibility and how to use the codes can be found on Wightlink’s youth travel webpage https://~^(.+\.)+xyz$/ways-to-save/youth-travel

Charlotte Andrews, chair of the Isle of Wight Youth Trust Taskforce said encouraging young people to travel beyond the Island is really important.

“For some young people, travelling to the mainland can feel like a really big step, but once they’ve done it they realise how straightforward it actually is.

“It opens doors to new experiences, opportunities, education, culture and confidence-building. My message to young people would simply be – go for it. Use the tickets, try something new and don’t be nervous about taking that first trip.”