We’ve all seen or heard of the massive queues that are experienced at ferry terminals during the Isle of Wight Festival and Bestival.
Not surprising really, given the tens of thousands of people that descend upon the Island during those two weekends.
So it was interesting to see that Red Funnel have released a Fast Track Return Passenger Ticket for festival goers this year.
At over twice the usual price (£24.30), for the whopping sum of £50 you can fast-track your way to the front of the queue on any sailing.
Red Funnel say they will make 200 tickets available per sailing. We’re waiting for the company to confirm what the full-capacity will be on the boats intended for use during the period.
Priority over season card holders?
Some season card holders have expressed concern that these Fast-Track ticket holders may receive priority over existing loyal Red Funnel season card holders.
Naturally, we got in touch with Red Funnel to delve a bit deeper into the offer.
We asked, “Could you advise whether these ticket holders will take priority over 1) season card holders 2) Islanders wishing to use the service over the festival period?”
Red Funnel were unable to answer today, telling us, “Our policy on prioritization during events is being reviewed so the team will confirm how it will work probably on Friday.”
Previous queues
Back in 2010, Cowes Resident Christian Beasley shot a video of the humongous queues of festival goers returning via the RedJet on the Monday morning.
Last year (2011) Red Funnel offered the following advice to RedJet passengers, “Where possible, season ticket holders, elderly and disabled customers and passengers with serious medical conditions will be prioritised but delays should still be expected.”
Obviously once we have an update from Red Funnel, we’ll let you know.
