We’ve rounded up some of our favourite boat trips for you to consider on your next Isle of Wight trip. From big cruises to the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer, we’ve got something for everyone…

Solent Cruises, Cowes

Yachting fans will be in their element on the 35-minute harbour tour of Cowes by Solent Cruises. Enjoy full, live commentary as you tour the yachting capital of the UK, with views of the Royal Yacht Squadron. Dogs on leads are allowed onboard boats departing the Isle of Wight, making this a great dog-friendly day out.

If you're looking for something longer, try the Two Ports Cruise, which, after exploring Cowes Harbour, heads out into the Solent where you'll enjoy a great view of the Island's coastline, Osbourne House, and Norris Castle. Then it's on to Portsmouth with views of the Solent sea forts and into the Portsmouth Naval Base, home of the Royal Navy. 

Back in Cowes, pop into The Wight Military and Heritage Museum to swot up on WW2 history and indulge in their tea room. For more ideas on what to do, check out our post on the delights of Cowes.

Black Rock Charters, Yarmouth

If you like your boat exploration with a side of sea fishing, look no further than Black Rock Charters. Novices and experienced fishermen alike are welcome aboard and tuition can be arranged if required. You don't need to bring any fishing equipment or bait, just yourself, some snacks, and appropriate gear. With fish to be caught year-round - from cod and pollock in winter to bass and turbot in summer - this is a great option for out-of-season holidays. 

If you'd rather sit back and relax, the Needles Cruise is an excellent option - you'll enjoy views of Fort Victoria, Fort Albert, Hurst Castle, Alum Bay, and finally The Needles Lighthouse and Pinnacles. If you're really lucky, you might even spot a dolphin pod. Dogs can be taken aboard too, if you're on holiday with your canine companion. 

Needles Pleasure Cruise, Yarmouth

There are several boat trips Yarmouth has to offer, and Needles Pleasure Cruise is a popular option. The Needles, an iconic trio of chalk rocks that attract visitors from around the world, are a must-visit attraction when you're on the Isle of Wight. And there's no better way to explore them than by boat. Seven days a week throughout the summer season, Needles Pleasure Cruises does what it says on the tin - takes visitors on short cruises from Alum Bay beach for up-close views of the Needles and the Lighthouse. 

Dogs are allowed (for free, no less) although not on the speedboat tours. There are a variety of routes and boats you can opt for. If you're short on time, hop aboard the High Speed Ribs and in fifteen minutes you'll take in the Needles and lighthouse and even head around the coast to Scratchells Bay. 

Afterwards, visit The Needles Landmark Attraction - kids will love the amusement park or why not take the chairlift and see the Needles from another vantage point? Here are some more ideas of things to do on the Isle of Wight with kids. 

Waverley, Ryde

If you’re looking for iconic boat trips, Ryde has a very special option. Here, for a limited time each year, you can step aboard the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer and a vessel of pre-eminent national significance. In fact, National Historic Ships UK has recently crowned Waverly 'National Flagship of the Year', recognising the magnitude of her ambition to cruise around the UK with sailings from 60 ports. 

During her lengthy trip around the UK, Waverly will be stopping by the Isle of Wight at various times throughout the year.

Boasting nearly 80 years of history, Waverly is a national treasure and a trip aboard is an experience like no other. Depending on the cruise you opt for you could have afternoon tea and cake or something more substantial in the dining saloon. Dogs are allowed on selected sailings only, so check before you book if you plan on bringing your dog.

Shanklin Sailing Club, Shanklin

If you're looking for Isle of Wight boat trips, Shanklin is best for sailing boat hire. Interested? Head to Shanklin Sailing Club where - provided you're an experienced sailor - you can hire their Challenger Trimaran. 

After your time exploring Sandown Bay, head back into Shanklin and explore its hive of independent shops, pubs, and restaurants. There's even a theatre if you're craving a side of culture with your watersports! Here are some more ideas of things to do in Shanklin.

Salty Sailing, Cowes

If you're researching customisable day boat trips on the Isle of Wight, look no further than Salty Sailing. These all-inclusive skippered charters are perfect for an off-the-beaten-track adventure year-round. You can discuss your itinerary before you book, but options include cruising the Solent, dropping anchor in Newtown Creek or stopping for a dip in Osborne Bay.​

A typical day starts at 9.30am in Cowes, shortly after you'll head down to the yacht for a safety briefing and a coffee or tea. Then it's time to slip the lines and head out to sea. Where you go will depend on the wind and tide, as well as your preferences, then you'll aim to drop anchor in a bay for lunch, which is provided for you. After an hour you'll lift anchor and head home, getting back into Cowes at around 4.30pm. In Cowes, keep the maritime vibes going with dinner at Murrays Seafood Restaurant. You can't go wrong with the set menu.

Cachalot Charters, Bembridge

If you're hoping to catch the big one, book a spot with Catchalot just off Bembridge Marina. You can pick from a 2-hour mackerel trip or a 4-8-hour deep sea fishing trip. You'll be welcomed aboard whether you're experienced or don't know your rod from your reel. It's the perfect option for visitors holidaying out of season; they're open for summer, as well as September through to December, when they specialise in cod fishing. 

Afterwards, head into Bembridge and check out the dog-friendly beach. If your stomach is rumbling after a day at sea, head to Barbosa where you'll find a menu stacked with hearty ribs, tacos, burgers and burritos. We'd be going for the Notorious P.I.G. - pulled pork, bacon with BBQ honey sauce and all the trimmings.

If the thought of a coastal holiday featuring a boat ride or two seems like perfection, take a look at our collection of Isle of Wight holiday cottages.