Wightlink will temporarily move FastCat boarding and disembarking operations at Portsmouth Harbour from the North End berth to the South End berth between Wednesday 18th March and Monday 30th March 2026 to allow essential engineering works to take place.
The planned maintenance includes replacing piles at the front of the berth and renewing the wires used to raise and lower the gangway, ensuring the long‑term safety and reliability of the FastCat service.
During this period, a revised timetable will be in operation on the Portsmouth–Ryde route.
Accessibility
While works are underway at Portsmouth Harbour, Wightlink is temporarily unable to accommodate passengers with accessible travel needs on the FastCat service due to the steeper, narrower South End gangway.
Passengers who require step‑free access are advised to use:
- Portsmouth–Fishbourne car ferry, where staff are trained to assist wheelchair and mobility scooter users
- Hovertravel, which will accept all Wightlink tickets during this period
Wightlink’s dedicated Assisted Travel line remains available on 0800 093 8236.
Bikes, pushchairs and prams
Following a review with the Health & Safety team and vessel Captains:
- Pushchairs and prams remain permitted; in some cases they may need to be folded and carried. Staff will be available to assist.
- Bikes will not be permitted unless they can be folded and carried, due to the narrow and steep temporary gangway. Cyclists with non‑folding bikes should use the Portsmouth–Fishbourne car ferry or Hovertravel as an alternative.
Please note, there are no changes to boarding arrangements at Ryde Pier Head.
Other customer information
- FastCat toilets will remain closed during the works except in emergencies or for medical reasons.
- Facilities at Portsmouth Harbour and Ryde Pier Head remain open as usual.
- Full details and timetables can be found on the website
- Booking support: 0333 999 7333 (Mon–Fri 9am–6pm; weekends 9am–5pm)
We sincerely apologise to our customers for the disruption. These essential repairs will enhance the reliability of the service going forward, and we’re grateful for our customers’ patience while the work is carried out.
News shared by Kelly on behalf of Wightlink. Ed
