Red Funnel pledges red‑and‑white tribute if Saints reach FA Cup Final
Southampton ferry operator Red Funnel has pledged to give one of its iconic red funnels a stripey red‑and‑white makeover if Southampton FC book their place in the FA Cup Final this weekend. With Saints heading to Wembley for Saturday’s semi‑final against Manchester City, backed by more than 33,350 travelling fans, the mood in the city is firmly building towards a landmark sporting moment. Red Funnel says it’s throwing its support behind the team, promising to mark the achievement with a visible celebration should Saints make it through to the next stage. The ferry operator has a long‑standing relationship with the Saints Foundation through its
Red Funnel picks up the fare this Mother’s Day
Despite the annual rush for blooms, chocolates and sentimental trinkets, 70% of mums say their ideal Mother’s Day is simply one spent with their children*. This year, Red Funnel is making that meaningful connection easier by covering the travel fare for mums, helping families come together for the moments that matter. On Sunday 15th March, Red Funnel is offering mums and mother figures free foot passenger travel between West Cowes and Southampton on the Hi-Speed Red Jet when travelling with a paying ‘child’ regardless of their age! With a round trip taking less than hour, families will be able to make the
Red Funnel expands its Customer Forum to dedicated trade and freight sessions
Red Funnel has expanded its regular Customer Forum initiative by hosting its first dedicated Trade & Freight Forum, bringing together freight partners and trade customers for an open and constructive conversation. The forums are designed to give customers direct access to Red Funnel’s leadership and delivery teams, including CEO, Fran Collins. The inaugural Trade & Freight Forum focused on listening to customer experiences, exploring opportunities to enhance operations and identifying ways to improve freight services across the Solent. From vessel loading logistics to customer communications, attendees had the opportunity to ask questions, share thoughts, give feedback and understand the day-to-day operations of
On the 12th day of Christmas Red Funnel gave to us, discounts and treats galore
Isle of Wight ferry operator Red Funnel is spreading more seasonal cheer with the return of its popular 12 Days of Christmas advent calendar. From Saturday 13 to Wednesday 24 December, Island and mainland residents can enjoy a daily treat simply by signing up to Red Funnel’s newsletter. Each day will reveal a unique offer behind the online advent calendar doors, including discounted travel for day trips and getaways, onboard food and drink specials, unmissable Island competitions, freebies and more. Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, said: “We’re excited to bring back our 12 Days of Christmas campaign. It’s a great
TIS’ THE SEASON! RED FUNNEL’S CHRISTMAS DAY SAILINGS ARE BACK!
Red Funnel will be spreading festive cheer and keeping families and loved-ones connected through a series of crossings on Christmas Day. Vehicle ferry crossings will run from Southampton and East Cowes ensuring those travelling on Christmas Day can celebrate with their nearest and dearest. As the only ferry company scheduled to cross the Solent on Christmas Day, these services are critical to islanders and mainlanders with friends and family on the other side of the Solent. The crossings will depart Southampton at 9am and 12pm and East Cowes at 10:30am and 1:30pm. Neil Chapman, Operations Director, said: “We are looking forward to giving a
Red Funnel launches Early Bird offers for 2026 Isle of Wight getaways
Isle of Wight ferry operator, Red Funnel, has announced the launch of two new offers for 2026 breaks to the Isle of Wight. From Monday 3 November, Red Funnel has opened bookings for its Camping and Touring Early Bird Offer, giving customers the opportunity to secure 2026 stays at 2025 prices – starting at just £129 for 3 nights with ferry and pitch. The Early Bird offer includes breaks at four of the Island’s most popular holiday parks: Appuldurcombe Gardens, The Orchards, Waverley Park and Whitefield Forest, providing great value for those looking to plan ahead and enjoy an affordable Isle of
Red Funnel offers free Isle of Wight travel to veterans and those serving in armed forces this Remembrance Day
In honour of Remembrance Sunday (8 November) and Remembrance Day (11 November), the original Isle of Wight ferry company, Red Funnel is offering past and present members of the UK Armed Forces free foot passenger ferry travel, across its fleet, to and from the Isle of Wight. (Left to right) Red Funnel Colleagues Mujahid Ahmed, mascot Ted Funnel, Ellysha Downer and Laurie Paget. This offer, is valid on Saturday 8, Sunday 9 and Tuesday 11 November and can be claimed in person at Red Funnel’s ticket offices by presenting either a MOD Form 90 ID card, (including expired cards for veterans), or
Red Funnel vessels set to enter winter refit programme
Cross-Solent ferry operator Red Funnel has announced the return of its winter timetable for the vehicle ferry service, as vessels begin their annual refit programme - designed to improve reliability and resilience. Starting on Tuesday 4 November to Thursday 26 March, the winter timetable will see Red Funnel revert to the standard two-boat service. During this period, the Red Eagle will undergo a major engine service. Red Falcon and Red Osprey will receive minor servicing, with Red Falcon also scheduled for a Voith propeller exchange. In order to improve resilience and long-term reliability across both of its services, Red Funnel will be operating
Red Funnel partners with Bluestar to extend free bus connection into Southampton City Centre
Red Funnel is proud to announce a new partnership with Bluestar to extend its free bus connection service into Southampton City Centre, including direct access to Southampton Central Railway Station. This enhancement builds on the existing Quayconnect bus service, which currently operates from morning to early evening. Neil Chapman and Richard Tyldsley (Image: Red Funnel) Starting immediately, the extended service will continue into the evening hours via Bluestar’s Route 19 bus, with the nearest pick up and drop off point to Red Funnel being Town Quay Road, opposite the Platform Tavern. Customers can obtain free travel upon showing their valid, dated Red Funnel
Red Funnel announces Autumn escape offer
Fares from just £79 for a 4 night break this Autumn Red Funnel has launched three fixed Autumn saver fares for customers. From day trips to extended stays, travel for just £79 Short Stay Return (1-4 nights), £99 Extended Stay Return (5+ nights) and £59 Day Return with these special limited time rates. So, whether you're planning a cosy UK retreat, jetting off to warmer climes, or fancy a day trip to IKEA or West Quay in Southampton, now is the perfect time to book your off-Island travel. With the £79 Short Stay fixed fare, you’ll pay just £19.75pp return for four