Now that summer has drawn to a close, it's time to look ahead to October half term, one of the best weeks to take a proper, 'time together' family holiday. Wightlink's Kids Go Free offer is valid throughout October half term and is ideal for families who really want to get the most out of their break, as up to two children aged 5-15 can travel for free with every adult foot passenger day return ticket*. This means that a family of four can travel to the Island for just £34.

It is widely acknowledged that the summer break can turn into a stressful affair for parents; a 2018 Groupon survey revealed that parents are ready for the summer holidays to end after just 13 days. The shorter October break gives families a chance at a more relaxed and revitalising family holiday, and what better way to enjoy this than on a week-long staycation on the Isle of Wight, just 22 minutes from Portsmouth, but a million miles away from the stresses and strains of the mainland.

With Wightlink, passengers can start their holiday the moment they step on board. Wightlink's new environmentally-friendly, hybrid ferry, Victoria of Wight, has two cafes that are ideal for families to relax in, as well as a children's play area, gaming area and comfortable seating including panoramic lounges to admire stunning views over the Solent.

Groupon's survey also revealed that over 50% of parents stress about keeping their children busy over the summer months, but once again the Isle of Wight with ample choice for family activities and events this October half term, is the place to be. While most traditional seaside resorts in the UK shut down once the summer has ended, the Isle of Wight is filled with events and attractions. Here are Wightlink's top recommendations of events and activities for families:

Fossil hunting with Dinosaur Isle

Dinosaur Isle is a purpose-built interactive museum which showcases the Island's incredible geological collections. It also runs guided fossil walks which are a great way to get outside with a hands-on activity that's sure to keep the whole family entertained. Tickets start from £4 for children and £5 for adults, with family tickets available from £16.50. Book in advance at: http://www.dinosaurisle.com/events.aspx#oct19

'Young Adventurers' Activity Days

Children can try out paddle boarding, archery, coasteering, bushcraft skills and much more at Adventure Activities Isle of Wight in Freshwater Bay. Running from 9am to 5pm throughout half term, the full day of activities costs just £32 per child. Find out more and book at: https://www.adventureactivitiesuk.com/our-adventures/young-adventurer/

Festival of Light at Electric Woods

From 27th September to 2nd November 2019, Robin Hill's Electric Woods is hosting a fantastic outdoor event with light displays, special effects and entertainment, all inspired by the Hindu festival of Diwali. There will also be authentic cuisine to enjoy and plenty of workshops for children to get involved in. Ticket prices start from £16.75 per person. Find out more at: www.wightlink.co.uk/explorer/detail/electric-woods-presents-festival-of-light-inspired-by-diwali/

Spooky Farm Fun at Tapnell Farm

From 19th October, family favourite Tapnell Farm is kicking off its spooky Halloween event. Throughout half term, there will be a unique bug show with special guests including the Bat Hospital and The Snake Lady on selected days. The event will give families the chance to get up close and learn more about the creatures, as well as enjoy the farm's normal residents such as meerkats, wallabies, alpacas and donkeys. Find out more at:    https://tapnellfarmpark.com/events/spooky-farm-fun-october-half-term

With all of this and more on offer this half term, families are guaranteed a fantastic staycation or day out on the Isle of Wight, and crossings with Wightlink make the journey quick and easy. Find out more at www.wightlink.co.uk.  

ENDS

*For full terms and conditions visit: https://www.wightlink.co.uk/go/discounts/kids-go-free/

Wightlink

Wightlink is the leading cross-Solent ferry operator carrying almost 4.5 million holidaymakers, day trippers and Islanders across the Solent between the Isle of Wight and the mainland every year. Eight ferries on three routes complete over 45,000 sailings a year.

Having introduced its new environmentally-friendly ferry – named Victoria of Wight - in August 2018, Wightlink is proud to be heralding a new, greener era of travel between the Isle of Wight and the mainland. As a hybrid energy ship that runs partly on electricity, Victoria of Wight offers greener crossings between the mainland and the Isle of Wight. The Isle of Wight is also the sixth area in the UK to be awarded a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, meaning it's now recognised as one of the best places in the world to explore the sustainable way people interact with their natural environment.

With seamless train connections from Portsmouth Harbour and Lymington stations directly to the Wightlink terminals, getting to the Isle of Wight could not be easier. Foot passengers can step off the train, hop on a Wightlink FastCat and be on the Island in just 22 minutes, while the car ferries take around 40 minutes from Portsmouth and Lymington. On board, customers can relax in the lounges and enjoy some refreshments before arriving on the Island to enjoy the range of attractions, events and experiences that make the Isle of Wight a leading destination for tourists.

wightlink.co.uk