Island Ferry operator Red Funnel has finally revealed why its crossing time for its high-speed service between Cowes and Southampton has increased from 23 to 28 minutes.
For as long as many can remember, the journey between Cowes and Southampton took around 23 minutes – but for at least the last few months that time has increased to just shy of half an hour, leaving frequent travellers wondering why the increase was enforced.
However, they have revealed today that the change aims to increase fuel efficiency, reduce emissions and prolong the lifespan of its current fleet after they noticed it reduced wear on the engines of their boats.
Red Funnel Chief Executive, Fran Collins said:
“Our Red Jet service currently operates at a crossing time of approximately 28 minutes. During the pandemic, we operated a 40-minute service, allowing for additional cleaning and the introduction of the carriage of bicycles.
During this time, we observed reduced wear and tear on our engines, extending the lifespan and reliability of our fleet, in addition to reduced emissions and improved fuel efficiency.
“We made the sustainable decision to operate a 28-minute service to ensure the long-term reliability of our service, allowing us to continue to support the needs and economy of the Island.”
5 more minutes away off alcatraz.
Or rather five more minutes from us foreigners on the mainland getting to your precious island.
MARKS IF YOU DONT LIKE THE ISLAND WHY BOTHER TO VISIT, I AM SURE WE WILL SURVIVE WITHOUT YOU
More lies, they don’t run at full speed anyway. This is just to make more profit by saving fuel. Time for a fixed link
Sad but true.
Well, on the basis of it reducing engine wear I suppose it won’t be long before they reduce speed to 2 miles an hour then.
Could always ask passengers to help by giving them oars?? or put a sail on top.
I though the extra five minutes in the pandemic was for cleaning between sailings not reducing speed between the two destinations.
Okay so why not lower the price of tickets… if using less fuel etc…. wonder what their profit margin is… 800 % maybe… or more ???
Not be long when we’re back to the 1950’s with just two sailings a day. Last one of the island please turn the lights off.
It won’t make a difference look how slow the chain ferry goes and that’s always breaking down
Didn’t this happen with the current generation of Fast Cats compared with the old ones?
It’s fast for a reason surely? Time for some electric craft?
More money for the shareholders
In the interests of saving fuel, passengers will be asked to row in unison. Those passengers who bring their own oars will get a 5% discount on tickets. Crossing time will be a couple of days, so take your PJ’s and a packed lunch. (This is no more ludicrous than RF claiming to save fuel whilst increasing fares and providing a second rate service as compare to before)