Wightlink new ferries
stay put in high winds

After months of delay, two out of three new Wightlink ferries (Wight Light and Wight Sky) were brought into service in February 2009. However, despite the initial excitement and enthusiasm, the new boats will not be sailing in winds greater than 30 knots.

Apparently the company awaits the third new ferry, Wight Sun, from the manufacturers in Croatia, before conducting final safety trials at sea. And until such time, the new boats will not leave harbour in high winds.

Wight Light leaves Yarmouth, bound for Lymington

Last week (March 12th 2009) the safety certificate of the last of the old ferries, Cenred, expired. This means that, in high winds, there will be no back-up service on the Lymington - Yarmouth crossing, and passengers will be forced to wait for calmer weather.

Foot passengers and cars board Wight Sky at Yarmouth

Lymington Harbour Commission has renewed its request for the new ferries to stop operating until environmental issues have been resolved. But the company are satisfied that their ferries have no adverse effect on the environment and they will continue to operate, as usual.

BACK from Wightlink ferries to Isle of Wight holidays HOME page