5th April - 27th September
From Saturday 5th April to Saturday 27th September 2025
The Island Coaster – the ever-popular summer service linking Ryde, Sandown and Shanklin with the West Wight area via Ventnor, Blackgang and Alum Bay, is the longest bus route on the Island.
Follow miles of stunning Isle of Wight coastline from the east side round to the west. Views along this route are unparalleled, offering breathtaking rural and coastal views as far as the eye can see. Hop on at Ryde and follow the shoreline round to Bembridge, the most eastern point of the Island, down to Sandown, Lake and Shanklin. Journey through Ventnor, Whitwell and Chale on the south side of the Island, before cruising the Military Road towards Freshwater and the iconic Needles Landmark Attraction at Alum Bay. Offering panoramic views from the top deck, the Island Coaster is a great way to see more of the Island.
The Island Coaster is perfect for those who wish to visit The Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Sandown Beach, Shanklin Esplanade, Blackgang Chine, Isle of Wight Pearl, Military Road, Freshwater Bay and so much more.
Along the Military Road the journey gives panoramic views of the ‘Back of the Wight’ coastline between Blackgang and Freshwater Bay. The views of the coast from the upper deck are not to be missed – don’t forget your camera! The Island Coaster is operated by a closed top bus.