Wightlink have confirmed to that they hope to reintroduce a post-8.20pm FastCat service this Spring.
The news emerged during a meeting between Cllr Richard Quigley (Lab), the Isle of Wight councillor for Cowes North, and the two Chief Executives for cross-Solent ferry operators, Wightlink and Red Funnel.
No more early nights for FastCat users
For some considerable time the last FastCat crossing from the Mainland to the Isle of Wight has been as early as 8.20pm, and 8.50pm from the Island to the Mainland.
This has meant anyone wanting to go out in Portsmouth or Southsea in the evening has not been able to use the FastCat service. Equally those travelling back from London have had to make sure they catch an earlier train to ensure they can cross by 8.20pm or use the car ferry from the other terminal.
Quigley: Sensible to open a dialogue to address users’ issues
Cllr Quigley called for the meeting, after several issues were raised with him by ferry users.
Talking to News OnTheWight, Cllr Quigley said,
“I’d like to thank the chief executives of both Red Funnel and Wightlink for their time and courtesy.
“Whilst my views on the ferries are fairly well known, in the absence of a change of Government, the most sensible thing to do was open a dialogue to address users’ issues.”
In November 2020 Cllr Quigley wrote a Letter to the Editor in which he said it was time for the Government to step in and nationalise ferry operators.
Issues raised
Cllr Quigley explained what was discussed at the meeting (you can read the detail below). He said,
“We started with issues around accessibility and the confusion over accessing the NHS discounted travel rate.
“Both Red Funnel and Wightlink have agreed to regular meetings and Red Funnel confirmed they’re due to re-instate their users’ forum in the Spring.”
Quigley: Hope initial responses help some users
Cllr Quigley added,
“The reliability and frequency of the service are top priorities, the aim is for users to address these concerns directly with Red Funnel and Wightlink.
“I haven’t solved the perennial issues with cross-Solent travel, but hope the initial responses help some users.”
Wightlink: NHS discounts
You will need to book by phone to access discounts for travelling to NHS appointments on the Mainland (0333 999 7333 9am to 6pm (5pm weekends)) with evidence of your NHS appointment.
You don’t have to be the driver, if someone is taking you to the appointment, the discount still applies. They will also retrospectively refund the difference in the ticket price if you have proof of appointment.
Wightlink: Disabled access
If you require disabled access additional requirements can be notified on the booking form. These might be parking near a lift etc.
Don’t assume a blue badge means Wightlink knows you need help, please don’t be scared to specify.
Helping hand scheme – for hidden disabilities, ask in advance when booking online
Wightlink: Staying in your car
It would be fair to say neither ferry company is keen on in-car journeys. However, they appreciate some passengers need to remain in vehicle.
Notification in advance is required, best done by phone, the preference is 72 hours advanced notice, but this is not always practical.
FastCat
A Fastcat service running later than 8.20/8.50pm is hoped to be reinstated in the Spring.
Wightlink have also agreed to regular meetings to discuss users’ issues.
Red Funnel: NHS discounts
To access discounts for attending NHS appointments on the Mainland, book by phone (023 8001 9192 – 8am to 7pm (6 pm at weekends)). You will need to provide evidence of an appointment (they will accept a text).
You don’t have to be the driver, if someone else is taking you to the appointment, the discount still applies.
Red Funnel: Lifts
A new control mechanism being fitted to all existing lifts to improve reliability.
New vessels will have larger lifts that can fit a mobility scooter and a carer at the same time. Stairs will also be more accessible on new ferries.
Red Funnel: Staying in your car
As with Wightlink, Red Funnel’s remain in car protocol is to notify them by phone, ideally 72 hours in advance.
Red Funnel: Call Centre
New call centre operators are being recruited to reduce call waiting times.
Red Funnel: Exiting Southampton
An application has been made to Southampton City Council to install four-way traffic lights at the terminal to allow for smoother exiting of the terminal.
Red Jet: Can I buy a part-time season ticket?
No, the best option is a book of 100 or 200 single crossings.
A book of 200 would make a return crossing £16.
Red Funnel’s Users’ Forum is due to restart in the Spring – please consider contributing.
