Passengers using the Wightlink Catamaran earlier today told us they had a bit of a fright half-way across the Solent.
As you’ll all be aware the weather was pretty windy this morning, but it was still a surprise when a VB reader got in touch to tell us about the incident.
He told us, “The boat broke down half away across! The wind lifted an engine cover (I think that’s what he said) which had to be lashed down mid-Solent.”
Incident confirmed by Wightlink
We got in touch with Wightlink to find out more. Our contact, Kerry Jackson, confirmed, “The hatch cover came lose during the sailing – caused by the excessive winds – and needed securing to avoid any damage being done to the vessel.
“The vessel stopped during the sailing to enable the crew to secure the hatch and then she continued on her journey.”
Well done to the brave Wightlink staff on-board who got out on deck in the terrible weather conditions to secure the hatch.
This incident resulted in a shuttle service running for a short period and with the Hover out of action, extra numbers queuing to use the catamaran during rush hour.
Image: MïK Watson under CC BY 2.0
