The Isle of Wight is set to be busy over the August Bank Holiday.

The County Press set a challenge to Ollie Hawthorn, of Brading, who spent a week on work experience with us. 

We asked Ollie to look at how much a family of four would have to pay, to visit the Isle of Wight from the mainland over the busy period of Friday, August 26, to Monday, August 29.

He looked at the prices on the websites of Wightlink, Red Funnel and Hovertravel.

This was without any vouchers, deals or hotel bookings.

Many visitors to the Island book via their accommodation, for a better deal.

Island residents get cheaper fares, travelling over The Solent in the other direction, and many use multi passes for frequent travel.

Here's Ollie's findings:

  • Wightlink Car Ferry (with car), Portsmouth to Fishbourne = £273

The only journeys available were for the early mornings, crossing at 7.20am on the Friday and going back at 8.20am on the Monday.

  • Wightlink Car Ferry (without car), Portsmouth to Fishbourne = £82.80
  • Wightlink Car Ferry (with car), Lymington to Yarmouth = No availability
  • Wightlink Car Ferry (without car), Lymington to Yarmouth = £82.80
  • Red Funnel Car Ferry (with car), Southampton to East Cowes = £273.30

The only journeys available were for late at night, crossing at 10.30pm on the Friday and 11.59pm on the Monday.

  • Red Funnel Car Ferry (without car), Southampton to East Cowes = £65.60
  • Wightlink FastCat, Portsmouth to Ryde = £99.80
  • Red Funnel Red Jet, Southampton to Cowes = £97.80
  • Hovertravel, Southsea to Ryde = £80

In summary, the cheapest way to get to the Isle of Wight is by Red Funnel car ferry from Southampton, as foot passengers.

The most expensive route is Red Funnel car ferry by car, but only by 30p!