A new cross-Solent ferry service is due to begin operating on Thursday 2nd October 2025, offering passengers an alternative route between Yarmouth and Lymington.
The service has been developed by Quay 2 Quay in partnership with both Yarmouth Harbour Commissioners and Lymington Harbour Commissioners. Organisers say the service will add more choice and capacity for communities on both sides of the Solent.
State-of-the-art vessel
Sailings will be carried out by ‘KRAKEN’, a 15-metre catamaran passenger vessel. The boat has capacity for over 100 passengers, with both enclosed and open seating, and will also provide onboard refreshments.
Quay 2 Quay say the service is designed to improve the customer experience while expanding travel options across the Solent.
Voices of support
Magnus Gundersen, Director of Quay 2 Quay, said,
“As someone who lives close to Lymington it became clear to me that there is a real need in the area for an alternative ferry service crossing.
“This is a very exciting opportunity, we have worked tirelessly on this to get the service right, and it is a real credit to the Commissioners of both Yarmouth and Lymington and all those involved to have achieved what we have in a short space of time.
“We now look forward to the service beginning operations and providing additional passenger choice.”
Quigley: I wish the operators every success
Richard Quigley, Labour MP for Isle of Wight West, said,
“It’s great news that Kraken is finally able to commence passenger sailings. Competition in the cross Solent transport market is very welcome and this offers Islanders even more choice.
“I wish the operators every success and hope residents of Yarmouth and further afield will support the new service.”
Warm welcome from harbourmasters
Tim Adams, Yarmouth Harbourmaster, said,
“On behalf of the Commissioners I extend a warm welcome to Quay 2 Quay and the MV Kraken.
“We are delighted to be in a position to accommodate Quay 2 Quay to our busy Harbour and wish them every success in their new venture.”
Matt Wright, Lymington Harbourmaster, said,
“On behalf of the Lymington Harbour Commissioners, I extend a warm welcome to Quay 2 Quay and the MV Kraken. We are delighted to accommodate Quay 2 Quay within our vibrant harbour community and wish them every success in their exciting new venture.”
Timetable and booking
The service will begin with a Monday-to-Friday timetable between Yarmouth Harbour and Lymington Town Quay.
Quay 2 Quay plans to expand to a full service in the coming months.
Further details, including booking information, are available on the website.
