Red Funnel

147 years of experience

Red Funnel is the original Isle of Wight ferry company with a history spanning almost 150 years in its present form but with roots stretching back as far as the 1820's. Much has changed since Red Funnel's paddle steamers ran excursions from Southampton as far as Brighton, Cherbourg and Torquay but we are still just as passionate about delivering great customer service and providing value for money.

Exceptional service

Today, we operate 24/7, 364 days a year and have the youngest and fastest fleet of passenger and vehicle ferries on the Solent. Our Raptor Class vehicle ferries are also the largest with space for well over 200 cars. Our front line people are chosen carefully before being trained to deliver a level of service that strives to exceed our customer's expectations. Onboard there is a wide range of good food, real coffee, a well stocked bar and relaxing lounges with modern facilities. If you love a sea breeze, there is a spacious outer deck with the best views of the Solent!

We are only too pleased to help customers with special needs or those who just require a hand with luggage. If you need to use a car deck lift to the passenger accommodation please notify check-in staff upon arrival, wheelchairs are also available.

Easy to find

Southampton is our home port and gateway to the Isle of Wight. The city has excellent road, rail and air connections and is easily accessible from all parts of the UK using private or public transport. There is ample parking in close proximity to our terminals for those wishing to travel by foot.

Aim to arrive at the terminal 30-45 minutes prior to departure, show staff your eTicket and they will direct you to the correct lane ready for boarding - real coffee, delicious cakes & pastries, newspapers and magazines are available at the terminal.

Easy to book

You can book your vehicle and yourself on the ferry quickly and easily using this website or by calling us on 0844 844 9988 - you can book online up to 2 hours before a sailing departs. Our cheapest fares are always found online and are shown alongside every sailing. There are no hidden extras - the price you see is the price you pay!

Its all about choice and flexibility, if you want to save money and travel on a specific sailing choose a "Saver" fare. If you are not sure whether you will make your booked departure go for a "Flexible" fare as there are no penalties if you arrive early or late. If you want the bells and whistles, checkout what our "Premium" fares have to offer. Once you have booked you will be sent an eTicket, please show this to terminal staff upon arrival.