Red Funnel's Red Jets have returned to service today (Monday 29 June).

A limited timetable is running between Southampton and Cowes.

The service was suspended on 18 April, as a result of coronavirus.

There are three crossings in the morning and three in the evening, seven days a week.

Scroll down for reaction and timetable...

Capacity will be limited to allow social distancing.

Customers will continue to be encouraged to socially distance, heed new signage and markings and face coverings must be worn (unless you are exempt).

When will the Red Jets run?

Departing Southampton (Terminal 2):

  • Morning: 05:15, 06:45, 08:15
  • Evening: 15:45, 17:15, 18:45

Departing Cowes:

  • Morning: 06:00, 07:30, 09:00
  • Evening: 16:30, 18:00, 19:30

Can I buy food and drink?

Food and drinks are already being sold on vehicle ferries. From 26 June (Friday), the Terminal 1 cafe in Southampton will also reopen.

Red Funnel has also opened its Signature Lounge.

Food and beverage services are suspended in both Isle of Wight terminals and Southampton's Red Jet terminal (terminal 2).

There is now hot food on board Red Funnel’s vehicle ferries.

Quayconnect shuttle

The Quayconnect shuttle bus service, through Southampton, to the train station, remains suspended.

Reaction

Isle of Wight County Press:

Isle of Wight Council Leader Dave Stewart

"One of the most difficult times in Red Funnel’s 160 year history"

- Fran Collins

Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be bringing our Red Jet service back into operation having had to take the difficult decision to suspend the service back in April. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome our Hi-Speed customers and team back on board and I’d like to take this opportunity to publicly thank our customers and staff for their ongoing patience and understanding during what has been one of the most difficult times in Red Funnel’s 160 year history.

"The last few months have been extremely challenging for both our customers and our teams, and reinstating the Red Jet service feels like a significant step in the right direction. We’re very much looking forward to welcoming customers back on board next Monday and hope to be able to increase the service in line with the relaxing of government restrictions.”

MP Bob Seely said: "I am pleased that the Red Jet service is resuming next week, albeit on a limited service.

"I know there are many commuters who will welcome the return of the service. It’s a step forward in returning slowly to normal.

"From early July, the Island will responsibly open up its visitor and hospitality sector. This needs to be handled sensitively, but it is important for many thousands of people on the Island whose livelihoods rely on the visitor or hospitality economies.” 

Isle of Wight County Press:

Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely

Isle of Wight Council Leader Dave Stewart said: "Our ferry operators are making enormous effort to ensure lifeline services are maintained during these very difficult times. 

"They have been working closely and in a co-ordinated fashion alongside our transport infrastructure board (TIB) and with the crucial support of the Department for Transport and our MP.

"The reinstatement of commuter services is a significant step on the Island's road to recovery, not only to provide better connectivity to and from the mainland, but also to support our drive to open up the visitor economy in line with government advice. 

"We are all continuing to work together to ensure a phased recovery of our ferry services, including the reintroduction of those which support our vital summer visitor economy. We want to safely show the Island is open for holidays this year.

"This will continue to involve our usual level of caution and safety for our Island community, but also to provide a recovery pathway for this crucial business sector."

Transport Infrastructure Board chair, Christopher Garnett, said it was essential ferry timetables could be adjusted to meet any possible increases in demand arising from further changes in government regulations about tourism and travel.

He said: "The TIB is ensuring cross-Solent services are appropriate to support the recovery of the Island economy."