New operator for Hoverbus

First Bus Solent is now operating the Hoverbus service on behalf of Hovertravel. It was formerly operated by Stagecoach.

The service connects the hovercraft for crossings to and from the Isle of Wight, taking passengers from stops across Portsmouth to its Southsea Terminal.

A new bus with a new livery has been put on the service, although the timetable and route remain the same. To encourage more people to use the service, ticket prices are being reduced.

“We are also keen to see how we can be a proactive partner for the First Bus Solent network” – Neil Chapman, managing director of Hovertravel

Neil Chapman, managing director of Hovertravel, said: “Connecting our hovercraft service with both train stations and city centre of Portsmouth is a crucial part of our customer journey and we are delighted to be working with First Bus Solent to offer the Hoverbus. We are also keen to see how we can be a proactive partner for the First Bus Solent network, hopefully offering our customers better access to more connections.”

“We are also keen to see how we can enhance this service, as well as encouraging wider uptake of the bus” – First Bus Solent’s Commercial Director, James Eustace

First Bus Solent’s Commercial Director, James Eustace, said: “We’re very proud to be appointed to run this flagship service, connecting people across Portsmouth and Southsea to the Isle of Wight. HoverBus is a fantastic bus option that that anyone can use – not just passengers for the hovercraft. We look forward to delivering a first-class service for all.

“We are also keen to see how we can enhance this service, as well as encouraging wider uptake of the bus, hopefully attracting customers across the city not just those passengers traveling between Southsea and the Isle of Wight.”