We mainly travel on the Portsmouth to Fishbourne route which is very convenient if you live near the A3. My favourite ferry is, of course(!), Victoria of Wight which is has plenty of seating so you never feel crowded. There is also a large space outside for when the weather is good and a viewing window for when its not so good. There is a Costa on board and also another place to buy food and drinks, books, etc. The ferries are pretty reliable and apart from the odd occasion run to time. Generally its a very smooth operation. Definitely my favourite way of getting across to the island.