Ryde, the main arrival point for Wightlink car ferries and Hovertravel hovercraft from Portsmouth, connects to Newport — the island's county town and main shopping hub — via a frequent, direct bus route.
Bus Route 9
Southern Vectis route 9 runs between Ryde Transport Interchange and Newport Bus Station via Fairlee/Staplers, Wootton and Binstead, with a general daytime frequency of every 10 minutes in each direction, dropping to every 15 minutes on Sundays and in the evenings. The journey takes around 28 minutes.
Where to Catch It
Route 9 departs from Ryde Transport Interchange, which sits close to both the Wightlink ferry terminal and the Hovertravel hovercraft terminal, making the connection genuinely straightforward if you've just arrived on the island without a car.
Luggage and Accessibility on Route 9
As one of the island's busiest and most frequent routes, buses on route 9 are generally modern, low-floor vehicles with space for luggage and wheelchair users, though space can be tighter at peak times or when a sailing has just arrived and multiple passengers board at once — allowing a little flexibility on which specific departure you catch can help if the first bus is already busy.
Ticket Options
A single fare works fine for a one-off trip, but if you're planning to explore Newport and other towns in the same day, a Southern Vectis Rover ticket giving unlimited travel is often better value.
Alternative: The Island Line Train
The Island Line train doesn't run directly to Newport, so route 9 (or a taxi) remains the most direct option specifically for this journey.
Taxi Alternative
If you'd rather not wait for a bus, particularly with a large group or significant luggage, a taxi rank is typically available near the ferry and hovercraft terminals in Ryde — see our Isle of Wight taxi guide for what to expect on cost.
Best For
Visitors arriving at Ryde without a car who want to reach Newport for shopping, the Quay Arts Centre, or onward bus connections to the rest of the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get from Ryde to Newport without a car?
Southern Vectis bus route 9 runs directly between Ryde Transport Interchange and Newport Bus Station, roughly every 10 minutes in the daytime, taking about 28 minutes.
Does the Island Line train go to Newport?
No, the Island Line only runs between Ryde Pier Head and Shanklin — for Newport, bus route 9 or a taxi are the direct options.
How often does the bus run from Ryde to Newport?
Roughly every 10 minutes during the day, dropping to every 15 minutes on Sundays and in the evenings.
Is there a taxi rank at Ryde ferry terminal?
Typically yes, near the ferry and hovercraft terminals — a practical alternative to the bus if you're travelling with a large group or significant luggage.
Is route 9 accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs?
Generally yes, as a frequent, modern route, though space can be tighter at peak times when multiple ferry passengers board at once.
Related: Southern Vectis Rover tickets · Island Line train guide · Getting around without a car
