Hovertravel Wins Ferry Operator of the Year at National Transport Awards 2025

03/10/25

Hovertravel Ltd, the world’s longest-running passenger hovercraft service, is celebrating after being named Ferry Operator of the Year at the National Transport Awards 2025, held last night at the Westminster Park Plaza in London and hosted by broadcaster, Jeremy Vine.




This is the first time Hovertravel has won the top award, having previously been shortlisted several times including last year. The company triumphed over fellow finalists Caledonian MacBrayne and Uber Boat by Thames Clipper, in a category that also recognised the outstanding efforts of all the UK’s ferry operators.

Loretta Lale, Head of Marketing at Hovertravel, said:
“We are honoured and humbled to win Ferry Operator of the Year 2025. To be recognised alongside our fellow finalists is a privilege, and we pay tribute to them and everyone who entered for their incredible work in keeping the UK connected. This award is truly for our people - the teams in our terminals, our engineers, our pilots and our crew - who make Hovertravel such a special service every single day. Their professionalism, passion and pride are what keep us moving.”

Hovertravel operates the only year-round passenger hovercraft service outside Japan, making it one of the rarest transport experiences in the world. While unique, it remains a vital lifeline for communities, connecting families, school children, students and teachers, work colleagues and patients travelling to healthcare facilities across the Solent.

Winning this national recognition is especially meaningful in Hovertravel’s 60th anniversary year, a milestone which celebrates six decades of pioneering innovation, resilience and community service.

As the only Isle of Wight ferry operator shortlisted in 2025, Hovertravel’s win highlights both the innovation and independence of this local operator, which continues to deliver fast, sustainable, and customer-focused travel to thousands of passengers each year.