Isle of Wight West MP accuses Wightlink of Red Funnel cash in

WIGHTLINK has dismissed the claim of one of the Isle of Wight’s new MPs that the ferry company “appears to have cashed in” on rival Red Funnel’s vehicle carrier suspension woes.

All services on Red Funnel’s car ferry route between East Cowes and Southampton had been halted last night (Sunday, July 14), due to a problem with the East Cowes terminal’s linkspan — the drawbridge, which allows vehicles on and off.

The issue continued into this morning (Monday), causing major disruption to commuters and holidaymakers needing to cross The Solent.

Red Funnel’s service resumed at 2.30pm from East Cowes, but new Isle of Wight West MP, Richard Quigley, accused Wightlink of making money from its rivals’ customers this morning.

He said: “The situation with Red Funnel is unacceptable — and Wightlink appearing to cash in on the issue doesn’t help the Island one bit.

“It does give us further evidence that a better solution is essential.”

On social media, some Islanders suggested Wightlink’s vehicle ferry prices were higher than usual. But Wightlink hit back, saying the company made no alterations to its fare pricing policy as a result of Red Funnel’s difficulties.

“Mondays in July are always very busy at Wightlink. However, we have worked with Red Funnel to support its customers, by carrying them on our vehicle ferries — wherever we have space,” said Wightlink.

The company also said it had added extra capacity on its Yarmouth to Lymington route.

“Wightlink has been thanked by Red Funnel and the Isle of Wight’s Transport Infrastructure Board for its response to the situation.”