The Isle of Wight is a dream for travel creators — a compact island filled with golden beaches, coastal cliffs, colourful villages, and some of the UK’s most photogenic spots. But to stand out on social media, you’ll need more than just pretty pictures. You’ll need storytelling, consistency, and smart partnerships — and one of the best ways to do that is by using Wightlink, the island’s main ferry operator, as part of your brand narrative.
Capture the Journey, Not Just the Destination
One of the biggest mistakes travel influencers make is focusing only on the destination. The Isle of Wight offers a unique advantage: the journey itself is part of the magic. The short ferry ride with Wightlink — whether from Portsmouth, Lymington, or the FastCat from Southsea — is an experience worth sharing.
Use this to your advantage by creating content that captures the transition from mainland to island. A short reel showing the ferry pulling away from the dock, the waves, and the first glimpse of the island’s coastline instantly adds movement and story to your feed. Don’t just post photos of beaches — show your audience how you got there and the many great things on the IoW.
Collaborate and Tag Strategically
Wightlink has an active social media presence and often engages with local creators, photographers, and businesses. Tagging @wightlinkferries or using hashtags like #WightlinkJourney and #IsleofWight increases the chance of your content being reshared to a larger audience.
Partnership opportunities are also worth exploring. Wightlink occasionally runs promotional campaigns and collaborations with tourism brands — from festivals to eco-tourism initiatives. Aligning your content with their themes (like sustainable travel or local discovery) can open doors to features or joint promotions.
Be the Local Expert
Audiences follow travel accounts for inspiration — but they stay for expertise. To grow your real followers, focus on being the go-to guide for Isle of Wight adventures. Don’t just post “pretty spots.” Create carousel posts or reels titled things like:
- “5 Hidden Coves Near the Wightlink Ferry”
- “The Perfect Day Trip from Portsmouth to Ryde”
- “Underrated Island Cafés with the Best Views”
These posts blend helpfulness with visual storytelling, positioning you as both a traveller and a trusted local resource.
Show the Island’s Personality
The Isle of Wight isn’t just beaches and cliffs — it has character. Think festivals, quirky seaside towns, walking trails, and artisan markets. Share videos from events like the Isle of Wight Festival or Cowes Week, or slow, moody clips of coastal walks in winter. Use captions that feel human and authentic — describe the sounds, smells, and emotions of each scene.
If you’re filming for TikTok or Instagram Reels, blend trending audio with local ambience. A sound of ferry horns mixed with upbeat summer tracks, or a slow reel showing waves under grey skies, can capture the island’s vibe better than a postcard-perfect shot.
Keep a Consistent Posting Rhythm
Social media growth depends on rhythm and reliability. Create a posting schedule that reflects the island’s seasons — from summer beach trips to cosy winter escapes. Aim to post 3–5 times a week, alternating between reels, carousels, and stories.
Feature a mix of:
- Travel guides:Itineraries and must-see spots.
- Behind the scenes:Ferry crossings, packing tips, local food.
- Local collaborations:Tag island cafés, B&Bs, or tour guides.
- UGC reposts:Share photos from visitors who use your branded hashtag.
This variety keeps your feed fresh and relatable, appealing to both day-trippers and loyal followers.
Use Hashtags and Geotags Effectively
Pair broad hashtags like #VisitIsleOfWight, #IslandLife, and #UKTravel with niche tags such as #WightlinkFerry, #RydePier, or #ComptonBay. Geotag every post — not just “Isle of Wight,” but specific landmarks like The Needles, Ventnor, or Yarmouth. This boosts discoverability among tourists searching for local content.
Partner with Local Businesses and Events
Collaboration drives exposure. Reach out to local hotels, restaurants, and event organisers to exchange shoutouts or create content together. For example, you could film a “Day Trip by Ferry” video in partnership with Wightlink and a local café near the port. This kind of co-marketing benefits everyone — they get content, and you get reach.
During major island events — such as the Walking Festival or Garlic Festival — create short updates, reels, or guides. Tag event pages, sponsors, and Wightlink to increase your chance of being featured in their coverage.
Tell a Bigger Story
Growing a travel social media brand on the Isle of Wight isn’t just about showcasing beautiful spots — it’s about capturing a sense of movement, connection, and discovery. By integrating Wightlink into your storytelling, you add an extra layer of authenticity and accessibility to your content.
The ferry becomes more than transport — it becomes a symbol of crossing into a slower, more scenic world. Whether it’s a sunrise over the Solent or the view of the cliffs as you sail home, those small, shared moments are what turn casual viewers into loyal followers.
