UPDATED: DAYTIME CHARTER VESSEL SHUTTLE FOR FASTCAT SERVICE DUE TO DOUBLE BREAKDOWN

Wightlink is operating a shuttle service using a single charter vessel on its Ryde Pier Head-Portsmouth route until Tuesday – but only until 18:00 each day – due to the breakdown of both Fastcats. 

The Bank Holiday weekend has got off to a bad start for Wightlink with both of its passenger ferries out of action.

It was on Thursday night that the cross-Solent operator announced the first sailings of the day between Ryde and Portsmouth on Friday had been cancelled, due to a technical issue with Wight Ryder I.

The service remained suspended until 10:15 as Wight Ryder II is also out of service, for what is said to be engine issues.

The charter vessel only ran for a few hours before Wightlink once again suspended its Fastcat operations – a position that remained for the rest of the day.

Now, it has been confirmed that a charter vessel will be the only boat operating on the passenger route today (Saturday) and every day until Tuesday.

A shuttle service is in operation, starting at 07:45 from Ryde Pier Head with a crossing time of 30 minutes. There is a passenger limit of 160.

This service will only run until 18:00, after which the route will be suspended until Sunday Morning.

Furthermore, there will be no sailings between 14:00 and 15:00.

Wightlink says it expects its own vessel to be repaired by Tuesday evening. But it sounds as though 1 of the Fastcats will remain moored up.

All tickets are being accepted on its Fishbourne-Portsmouth car ferry service.

A spokesperson has said.

“We appreciate your patience and understanding as we make this change, which we know may cause some changes to your travel plans. This schedule adjustment is essential to make the repairs on the Wight Ryder II and make sure the FastCat continues to uphold the high standard of service you rely on.

“If you have any questions or concerns, our team is happy to help – just give us a call on 0333 999 7333 (9am–6pm Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm weekends).

“Again, we apologise sincerely for any changes to your travel plans and thank you for your understanding and support during this time”.