A problem with the link span at Wightlink’s Fishbourne terminal is causing delays to the operator’s cross-Solent service tonight (Monday).
The vessel St Clare is currently stuck in port as a result of the technical hiccup, which means the 19:00 Portsmouth to Fishbourne sailing is unable to dock.
Victoria of Wight is currently sat off Fishbourne having now been at sea for over 1 hour 20 minutes – a journey that should take just 45 minutes.
Wightlink is currently advising of a normal service through its website and social channels.
UPDATE @ 21:05 – Wightlink has now confirmed a delay of 2-and-a-half hours on its Fishbourne-Portsmouth route.
St Clare remains stuck in port at Fishbourne, whilst Victoria of Wight remains at sea. Passengers have been offered a glass of water.
UPDATE @ 21:18 – With no signs of the issue being resolved in the short term, Victoria of Wight is heading back to Portsmouth, almost 2-and-a-half hours after it left the Gunwharf terminal.
UPDATE @ 22:10 – St Clare is finally underway -more than 3 hours later than planned.
UPDATE TUESDAY – Speaking about their experience last night, an Island Echo reader has said:
“We got on the ferry at 18:50 and off at 23:00! Messages from the crew were very minimal, and it was cold. Eventually, we got offered a glass of water each! No offers of food or compensation or something off your next trip etc.
“Very unimpressed with them”.
So red funnel has problems and now wightlink ….. wouldn’t happen with a bridge
No, probably not but then you’ll have to contend with “Eco Warriors” swinging from the top of it…
You paying for it???
The Muppets on the Island can’t even fill a pothole, so no chance of a
Bridge.
Stop the inbreeding. Build a bridge
Boring, never going to happen so get used to it.
And you can guarantee that can you, no of course not.
Its never going to happen so get used to it.
Yes it would. Cars and lorries can also break down.
For heavens sake 2 and half hour delay and they’re given a glass of water ……
Logic dictates that the benefits of a bridge/tunnel far outweigh the negatives,as a major infrasture project it would be down to central government who I have marginally more confiodence in than the local council which I appreciate does not say a lot. If you take the dartford crossing as a parallel it has been an enormous money earner for both the local councils and department of transport, I do appreciate that if such a structure ever happens then the Echo will lose half of its news articles, no delays no strikes no maintence isuues to report.
Disagree, Much more crimes and illegals to report on, not to mention the hedge hoppers.
Love this inane idea that more crime would come despite crime continually rising on the Island even with out a bridge. Wondering who’s going to care for all the old dodd’s that don’t want a decent connection to the real world once everyones gone.
The Darttford crossing is a completely different beast. Both ends are within easy reach of London so it doesn’t turn either end into a dormitory areas which a bridge would do to the Isle of Wight. Anyhow we like our island as an island, that’s why we live here.
Wow, a glass of water! Wightlink is a service not fit for purpose. Disgraceful!
Dartford Crossing is used by 130,000 vehicles per day. How is that comparable?
I don’t understand all the negative comments, this sounds like a marvellous impromptu time that individuals can decompress from life’s rigours, consider it a mini cruise of sorts, have time for some well needed mindfulness activities, connect meaningfully with travelling companions and subsequently thank wightlink for this enforced rest and recuperation. As for a glass of water, this is excellent rehydration fluids. As for being cold, i am not sure the 1900 cross Solent ferry in late November lends itself to Mediterranean temperatures and thus passengers would be wise to pack a warm cardigan. I for one say thank you wightlink!
Wow, the trolls are coming in hard today on IE.
I think it is terrible.