By Isle of Wight Observer
The Hythe Ferry has been put up for sale, with Red Funnel confirming it is seeking a new owner for the suspended service. The company says it can no longer operate the historic link between Hythe and Southampton and is inviting expressions of interest by February 19, a deadline that has angered many former users of the service.
Red Funnel took over the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company in September 2023, paying £250,000 for the business. The service was suspended in August 2024 due to pontoon infrastructure and funding problems. The most recent accounts for the company filed at Companies House were for the year ending October 2022.
Following Red Funnel’s acquisition by Njord Partners, the new owners say the ferry’s heritage value is recognised, but the service “does not fit” their long term portfolio. They are now seeking an operator able to modernise the route and secure the investment needed to restart operations.
Funds raised through a community GoFundMe will continue to be used for pontoon repairs, although donors may request refunds. Red Funnel says it will work with the Hythe Pier owner during the transition and hopes a new investor can secure the ferry’s future.
