Head straight to Yaverland for the start of this tour, taking a short walk along its fossil-rich coast. The cliffs here are almost as old as time with traces of millennia, seemingly hidden yet clearly visible when you are shown. You may also be lucky enough to find your own fossils as you walk.

[Optional visit to Dinosaur Isle - £7 per person, £6 concession]

From here, travel onwards via  Arreton to visit the Shipwreck Centre (open from April, £7 per person, £6 concession).

Next, on to see the first of two operational lighthouses on the Isle of Wight.

At St Catherine’s Lighthouse learn about the history of this archaeologically-rich area known as The Undercliff.

From here, stop to admire the arguably most breathtaking view on the Isle of Wight at Blackgang Viewpoint. Known as the ‘Back of the Wight’, this coast and its infamous Atherfield Ledge has been witness to many a maritime disaster. You will also learn about the nearby landmark known as ‘The Pepper Pot’ – built as the first St Catherine’s Lighthouse.

[Optional short walk to view the Pepper Pot]

Either have lunch at The Wight Mouse Inn (Chale), where timbers from the wreck of the Clarendon are said to have been used in its construction or try The Sun Inn at Hulverstone, with its fascinating links to the smuggling trade.

Driving along the iconic Military Road you will pass remnants of ancient lifeboat stations and hear tales of how life-preservation at sea came to be part of village life in this area.

Upon reaching Compton Bay there is an option to view dinosaur footprints on the beach. If the tide is right, you will also be able to catch glimpses of the wreck of The SS Carbon.

[Optional visit to Dinosaur Farm - £7 per person, £6 concessions]

In the distance, the looming cliffs of Tennyson Down will be seen, culminating in the famous Needles rocks and lighthouse. On your way to view these close up, your guide will explain about the wreck of The Irex and the struggle to save those on board.

After the short walk here, move on to the port and harbour town of Yarmouth.
Do the straight lines of the planned medieval streets hide something much older? We will weigh up the evidence and let you decide!

A short comfort/refreshment break will likely be needed here.

Returning via the northern coast road, you will learn about the early warning system used on the Island and their part in one of Tudor England’s darkest hours.

If you would prefer a full day tour totally dedicated to the Island’s shipwreck history, we have devised a simply fabulous one!

Not only will you see BOTH the Island’s famous lighthouses, but you will visit the sites of the wrecks of the Sirenia, Eider, Schiehallion, Santa Lucia, HMS Gladiator, Irex, Varvassi and the East Indiaman Clarendon (among others).

You will also visit fascinating Mottistone Church, partially constructed from the timbers of the convict ship Cedrene. Lunch stop will be The Sun Inn, Hulverstone (16th century thatched pub with smuggling history) and last port of call will be the Island’s Shipwreck and Maritime Centre, which contains artefacts from many of the above. (This tour is led by a different local expert and author on subject of Island shipwrecks.)