Wightlink Cancels Sailings After Ferry Suffers Mid-Solent Fault

A number of cross-Solent sailings have been cancelled today (Thursday) after a mechanical fault developed on a Wightlink St Clare.

The issue, believed to be related to the vessel’s steering, occurred at around 07:00 while the ferry was in the Solent.

A tug was deployed to assist and guide the vessel safely into Portsmouth Harbour.

Operator Wightlink initially warned of potential disruption, but has since confirmed that seven sailings on the Fishbourne–Portsmouth route have been cancelled.

Those affected include the 11:00, 13:00, 15:00 and 17:00 departures from Fishbourne, along with the 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00 sailings from Portsmouth.

Passengers are being transferred onto alternative crossings, with Victoria of Wight and St Faith continuing to operate the route.

It comes as other cross-Solent services are also facing disruption due to poor weather conditions.

Hovertravel has suspended its service until further notice because of strong winds, while Red Funnel has cancelled its 10:55 Red Jet departure from West Cowes.