Fifteen Isle of Wight College students boarded Wightlink's ferry, St Clare, gaining a unique insight into its operations.

The students, all on a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Travel and Tourism, were welcomed by Captain Dave Booker for a study day in Portsmouth.

Captain Dave Booker said: "No two days are the same at sea.

"We enjoy explaining what we do to run an efficient and reliable service that takes our customers to their destinations and gives them the best views of the Solent along the way."

The learners were shown how to use advanced electronic charts in different weather conditions and tides, among other key functions.

They also discovered how the company's marketing team lures mainland holiday-goers to the Island.

Tutor Lindsay Davies said: "There are so many opportunities in the travel and tourism industry, so we support our students to gain the skills to succeed.

"As a holiday rep for TUI, I worked in several resorts in Europe, North Africa and the Caribbean, then went on to manage teams.

"I now use what I learned in my career here at the college to help our students to build their confidence and achieve their dreams."