The cost of catching a bus on the Isle of Wight is to rise for the third time in less than two years.

In the week pupils go back to school, Southern Vectis has announced it will 'reluctantly' hike prices across its services.

Young adults or students, and children, buying day and 48-hour rover tickets will see prices go up by 50p (or 30p on the app).

There are also increases on freedom tickets and multi-bundles.

Read more: Isle of Wight bus ticket prices rise for second time this year

The bus firm is blaming a 'significant increase' in running costs for the increase.

All single fares will remain at £2 until the end of October, when the government scheme comes to an end.

After that, adult single fares will increase by 20p, and child singles and transfer singles will go up by 10p.

How much will it cost to ride a bus on the Isle of Wight from September 3?
 

Day Rover tickets:

  • Adult day rover: Up from £10 to £10.50 (£10.30 on the app).
  • Young adult day rover: Up from £8 to £8.50 (£8.30 on the app).
  • Child day rover: Up from £6 to £6.50 (£6.30 on the app).

48-hour Rover tickets:

  • Adult 48-hour rover: Up from £17.50 to £19 (£18.50 on the app).
  • Young adult 48-hour rover: Up from £13.50 to £14.50 (£14 on the app).
  • Child 48-hour rover: Up from £9.50 to £10 (£9.80 on the app).

30-day multi bundle tickets:

  • Adult 30-day multi bundle: Up from £130 to £140.
  • Young Adult 30 Day multi bundle: Up from £97.00 to £105.
  • Child 30 Day multi bundle: Up from £78 to £85.

7 Day Freedom tickets:

  • Adult 7 Day Freedom: Paper ticket up from £30 to £32.50. App: £28 to £30.
  • Young Adult 7 Day Freedom: Up from £23 to £25. App: £23 to £24.50.
  • Child 7 Day Freedom: Up from £16 to £17. App: £15.50 to £16.50.

For the full list of Southern Vectis Isle of Wight bus price hikes, click HERE. 

Nightrider fares will also increase by 50p, from £6.50 to £7.

A Southern Vectis spokesperson said: "This is not a decision we have taken lightly.

"We have kept any prices rises to an absolute minimum."

Southern Vectis also increased prices in October and January 2022.

The company is reminding Islanders that tickets are cheaper via its mobile app. 

For single and day tickets it recommends using its Tap On, Tap Off system.

Fares will increase from Sunday, September 3.