RED FUNNEL ‘RAISING FUNDS’ TO REPLACE AGEING VEHICLE FERRIES CONFIRMS TOP BOSS

The boss of Red Funnel has confirmed that the cross-Solent operator is in the process of raising funds to replace their ageing vehicle ferries – and has offered a 50% off voucher to those affected by the company’s recent failings. It’s been revealed that Red Funnel has been scoping out the requirements for its future fleet since last year in a bid to improve the reliability of its service. Last week it was reported that new ferries were on the horizon, but it wasn’t known how far along the plans were. Fran Collins, the Chief Executive, has said that the firm is ‘well underway’ in progressing its vehicle ferry fleet replacement programme, with the company now raising funds to enable its vision for the future to become a reality. Mrs Collins has noted that 2 of their 3 vehicle ferries turn 3o-years-old in 2024 and the ultimate solution to the growing reliability issues is to introduce modern, more sustainable vessels. However, there is still no news on what these ferries will look like, or when they will be delivered. Further news on this is expected ‘soon’, Red Funnel says. Red Osprey and Red Falcon first entered service back in 1994 with Red Eagle introduced some 2 years later. In 2019, Red Kestrel – a freight-only vessel – was introduced.

Between 2003 and 2005 the vehicle ferries were refitted and extended both in length and height – with the secondary vehicle deck introduced – following works undertaken in Poland. Issuing reassurance about the company’s financial position, Fran has said that the recent changes to its Board – with 8 directors leaving – are directly related to raising the funds needed for new boats and is ‘no cause for concern’. Customers are continuing to raise concerns about the increasing unreliability of the vessels – something brought to a real head when just 1 out of 7 vessels in the fleet was in operation last Saturday (16th March). Those impacted by the dire situation on Saturday have been offered a 50% voucher, to be used on any vehicle or foot passenger return crossing by the end of 2024. Earlier this week Island Echo reported that Red Jet 4 will not be returning to the hi-speed West Cowes to Southampton route – and has been put up for sale. Yesterday, Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely released a report into how the Island can secure better ferry services and pricing, with suggestions of robust arrangements to hold ferry services to account – including regulation.