Top reasons to catch Wightlink ferries in 2009

People planning ferry trips to the Isle of Wight this year have been given a run-down of the top things to see and do on the island in 2009.

According to Isle of Wight Tourism, there is so much to do on the island, from visiting award-winning beaches to exploring family fun parks, that visitors could benefit from a list of the top events and attractions on offer.

One of the highlights of the year will be the Isle of Wight Festival, which will bring music megastars including the Kaiser Chiefs and the Rolling Stones to the island between June 12th and 14th.

Music fans will also be interested in catching an Isle of Wight ferry in September for Bestival, a three-day event that was founded by Radio 1 DJ Rob da Bank.

People who prefer exploring the great outdoors can take part in the Isle of Wight Walking Festival, which will take place from May 9th to 24th this year and will feature the journalist and TV personality Janet Street Porter.

Throughout 2009, the island will host a number of events to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of one of its most famous residents, poet laureate Alfred Lord Tennyson.

Holidaymakers who would like to visit the Isle of Wight this year can catch a Wightlink ferry from Lymington to Yarmouth or sail from Portsmouth to Fishbourne or Ryde.