The pictures above show two different hovercrafts taken approximately 74 years apart. The one on the left is the SR.N1 (Saunders-Roe Nautical 1) which had it’s first outing in 1959 and the one on the right is the current Isle of Wight hovercraft ferry running from Southsea to Ryde. The SR.N1 was the world’s first hovercraft. designed and built in the UK.

The SR.N1 above is actually the Mark 2 with an added raised bow to prevent water overflowing onto the deck.

The SR.N1 used one engine for lift and propulsion. There were two “scoops” in the tower which took off part of the airflow and direct it along the side channels. The new ferry has, as you can see, separate fans at the rear for propulsion.