On Air Now David Francis 7:00pm - Midnight Spiller / Sophie Ellis-Bextor - Groovejet Schedule

Longer Red Jet Crossing Time Introduced To 'Improve Reliability And Save Fuel'

EXCLUSIVE: If you have travelled on Red Funnel's Red Jet recently, you might have noticed that the crossing time now takes longer than before.

For years, the journey between Cowes and Southampton took 23 minutes - but that time has now been extended to 28 minutes, Isle of Wight Radio can reveal.

Some commuters have been asking why the crossing time is extended.

Wightlink's FastCat takes 22 minutes between Ryde Pier Head and Portsmouth, while Hovertravel crossings are 10 minutes between Ryde and Southsea.

Red Funnel has told Isle of Wight Radio that the longer journey times will help to extend the lifespan and reliabilty of its fleet, while also saving fuel.

Fran Collins, Chief Executive at Red Funnel, said:

“Our Red Jet service currently operates at a crossing time of approximately 28 minutes. During the pandemic, we operated a 40-minute service, allowing for additional cleaning and the introduction of the carriage of bicycles.

During this time, we observed reduced wear and tear on our engines, extending the lifespan and reliability of our fleet, in addition to reduced emissions and improved fuel efficiency.

"We made the sustainable decision to operate a 28-minute service to ensure the long-term reliability of our service, allowing us to continue to support the needs and economy of the Island.”

Revised timetables are in place on Red Funnel, due to more forthcoming strike action.

More from Isle of Wight News