Nearly 10,000 free travel codes have been issued to Isle of Wight teenagers since Wightlink launched its youth travel initiative last year.
Since launching the scheme in June 2025, Wightlink has provided almost 10,000 free travel codes to 16 and 17-year-olds on the Isle of Wight, although the ferry operator says many eligible young people are still yet to make use of the offer.
The initiative gives sixth form students, apprentices and young people in training 2 free return foot passenger journeys to the mainland each academic year, helping them access education, work and leisure opportunities beyond the Solent.
The scheme was developed by Wightlink in partnership with the Isle of Wight Youth Trust after discussions with youth organisations highlighted the barriers some young Islanders face when travelling to the mainland.
Thousands of crossings have already been booked, with young people using the tickets for education, work experience, university open days and social activities.
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.
Article continues below this advertisement “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, added:
“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.”
Charlotte Andrews, Chair of the Isle of Wight Youth Trust Taskforce, said encouraging young people to travel beyond the Island is 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.”
Eligible young people receive the travel codes through their school, college or training provider, with the crossings valid on foot passenger services between the Isle of Wight and the mainland.
