Medical Emergency On Red Funnel Ferry Causes Delays Of Around Two Hours

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A medical emergency on board a Red Funnel vehicle ferry caused delays of around two hours this afternoon (Friday), after the vessel returned to Southampton shortly after setting sail for the Isle of Wight.

The ferry had left Southampton for East Cowes just before 3pm but turned back after a passenger became seriously unwell.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance landed at Red Funnel's Southampton terminal at around 4pm, alongside an on-land critical care team, with specialist medics joining other emergency services already at the scene.

After the passenger was treated on board, they were transferred into the care of waiting paramedics. The ferry was then cleared to continue its journey to East Cowes, running approximately two hours behind schedule.

Red Funnel said its vehicle ferry service is experiencing significant delays because of the incident.

In a statement, the operator said:

"Due to an ongoing onboard medical incident, our vehicle ferry service is currently experiencing significant delays.

"Further updates will be provided. "Thank you for your understanding, and we apologise for any inconvenience."

The company said its Red Jet passenger service between Southampton and West Cowes continues to operate as normal.

The nature of the medical emergency has not been disclosed.