Observe dozens of different types of vessels plying their trade, from cruise ships and car transporters at one end of the size scale, through to tugs and pleasure craft at the other ... and lots of examples in between. On a good day you'll see oil tankers, container ships, warships, dredgers, ferries, catamaran and many more examples on the water.

Students can practise their use of geographical vocabulary, and start to use maps - including a specially-commissioned illustrated map of the area designed to appeal to primary students.

Identify features of the landscape, both natural and man-made. You could work with other teachers to use the trip as inspiration for English and Science tasks, too, and we have a number of activities to help you make the most of this.

It's certainly an action-packed couple of hours aboard! Unless you're on a very tight schedule you could hop off the ferry for an hour ot two once you reach East Cowes and observe the workings of the harbour and marina from the Victorian esplanade, whilst studying the uses of groynes, rip-rap, breakwaters and artificial sandbanks.

Alternatively we can arrange for your party to remain on board during turnaround which will give you 30 minutes to observe the River Medina, Cowes and East Cowes marinas in more detail.

With sufficient notice we can also arrange tours of Southampton Docks either before or after your ferry crossing. This is led by an experienced guide who will board your coach and explain how the ports work from strategic viewpoints.