That great tradition has continued for many years with Hovertravel, who are now the world’s oldest hovercraft operator celebrating their 50th anniversary as operators of the Isle of Wight hovercraft service in 2015. The hovercraft has a well-established history on the Isle of Wight, with the very first craft (invented by Sir Christopher Cockerell) being manufactured by East Cowes marine firm Saunders-Roe in the late 1950s. Landing Craft Air Cushion 101 and 102 left the well deck of USS Carter Hall (LSD-50) to join the older LCACs of Assault Craft Unit 4. In fact, thanks to the pockets of air inserted into the Hovercraft sole, a cushioning. ![]() In the 1950s, Christopher created multiple versions of the hovercraft, and he struck upon a design that worked. Two Navy hovercrafts glinted silver in the low Friday sun as they cut across the Chesapeake Bay, blasting a wake of mist 25 feet high as they headed to their new home. A line where lightness and comfort are combined with quality design. These reports are from commercial and rescue hovercraft builders as well as recreational users. Even today, the country is incredibly proud of the invention although, admittedly, nowhere near as proud as they were in the 1960s to 1980s when the hovercraft was really popular. ![]() But as the only remaining service of its kind it is also classed as one of the Isle of Wight's many attractions, with many visitors hopping on board just to enjoy the unique experience! Hovercraft kits are more than just a hobby or family project. It operates a regular timetable transporting passengers between Ryde and Southsea in Portsmouth, with excellent connections to both road and rail networks on either side.Īs the quickest way to travel from the mainland to the Isle of Wight (less than 10 minutes journey time across the Solent) the hovercraft is regularly used by visitors to the Island, as well as commuters heading to and from work. The Isle of Wight Hovercraft is the last remaining commercial hovercraft service in the world.
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