Gosport Ferry

The quick crossing across Portsmouth Harbour

The Gosport Ferry provides a frequent passenger service across Portsmouth Harbour, connecting The Hard in Portsea to Gosport on the western side of the harbour. The crossing takes approximately four minutes and offers fine views of the harbour, the naval base, the historic ships and the harbour entrance.

The ferry has been operating in some form for centuries, providing the only direct link between Portsmouth and Gosport without a lengthy road journey via the M27. There is no road bridge or tunnel across the harbour, so the ferry remains an essential transport connection as well as an enjoyable experience in its own right.

The modern service is operated by the Gosport Ferry company using purpose-built passenger ferries. During peak hours, ferries run every few minutes. Off-peak and weekend services are slightly less frequent but still regular, with boats typically every 15 minutes. The service runs from early morning until late evening.

Fares are modest, and payment can be made by cash, contactless card or via a stored-value card that offers a discounted rate for regular users. The ferry terminal at The Hard is immediately adjacent to Portsmouth Harbour railway station and the bus interchange, creating an effective multimodal transport hub.

The crossing is popular with commuters who work on one side of the harbour and live on the other, with school pupils, and with visitors exploring both sides of the harbour. The short journey provides an excellent viewpoint for harbour activity, including naval vessels, commercial shipping and leisure craft.