A hovercraft has broken down whilst crossing the Solent from Southsea to Ryde this evening (Saturday).
Solent Flyer is currently stranded approximately 100 meters from the landing pad at Hovertravel’s Ryde Terminal.
The craft was seen snaking from side to side whilst approaching the Island before coming to a stop on the sand.
Engineers are currently working to try and get the craft onto the pad.
UPDATE @ 21:00 – Ryde Inshore Rescue’s Launch Tractor has been called in to assist in bringing Solent Flyer ashore.
UPDATE @ 23:00 – With the kindhearted help from the volunteer lifeboat crew, Hovertravel’s stricken craft has been successfully towed onto dry land.
Engineers are now expected to work on the craft overnight, getting it back into service as soon as possible.
Hovertravel’s second craft – Island Flyer – is still operating as normal, flying holidaymakers and Islanders to and from the Isle of Wight.
Island Echo readers have said that they have been watching the craft struggle throughout the day – initially thinking it was to do with strong winds.
A passerby at Southsea has informed Island Echo that the craft left the mainland empty with no passengers on board other than its pilot and crew.
A spokesperson for Ryde Inshore Rescue has tonight said:
“Always here to help.
“HoverTravel like all good companies should have a contingency plan in place for all situations, and we are pleased to be part of their plans.”
VIDEO: Watch as Ryde Inshore Rescue tows in the hovercraft.
https://www.facebook.com/309220432954/posts/10157913719197955/
Great video and sunset. Hope all is ok!
Many old people seem a little ‘strange’ at times, so please don’t insult someone else’s Grandmother, we will all age one day.
What on earth has Age got to do with it ???
It’s a play on words/pun.. Grammar /GrandMa
Seeing the negatives given, a little too subtle for a few readers, I fear.