Wightlink recently released a statement about the suspended St Clare Service between Fishbourne and Portsmouth. The company explained that the St Clare ferry was taken out of service due to a mechanical fault. Engineers are currently working hard to fix the issue, so the ferry can resume service as soon as possible.
To accommodate affected customers, Wightlink has been reaching out to those with bookings to move them to alternative sailings on the Victoria of Wight or on the Yarmouth to Lymington route. Unfortunately, the third ship on the Fishbourne-Portsmouth route, St Faith, is currently in Falmouth for dry-docking as part of its scheduled annual refit and cannot be brought back into service.
Wightlink expressed sincere apologies for any disruptions to their customers’ travel plans and offered a full refund for those who choose not to travel on the affected day. The company is working diligently to address the mechanical fault and get the St Clare ferry back in operation promptly.
In other news from the Isle of Wight, a popular hotel on the island is set to receive a new changing room to serve its outdoor swimming pool. This improvement aims to enhance the guest experience by providing a more convenient facility for bathers. Additionally, a Ryde farmhouse that has been plagued by trespassers and vandals may face demolition in the future.
Furthermore, the Isle of Wight Festival for 2025 has announced additional acts to join the star-studded lineup that includes Sting, Stereophonics, and Justin Timberlake. The festival promises an exciting array of artists to entertain festival-goers. Additionally, the Isle of Wight Council is seeking residents’ views on a new Cowes to East Cowes floating bridge, highlighting the importance of community engagement in local infrastructure projects.
Restoration work at an Isle of Wight quarry is expected to continue for two more years following a recent council decision, emphasizing the commitment to environmental conservation and land management. The local RSPCA branch has launched an appeal to support vulnerable animals during the holiday season, urging residents to contribute to the welfare of animals in need.
As part of ongoing community initiatives, the Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council has introduced a resident survey to gather feedback and shape the future strategic plan and budget for the area. This collaborative approach aims to empower residents and enhance community development efforts. Additionally, a planning appeal has been initiated for the construction of a new ‘cider and chocolate’ attraction near an Isle of Wight village, showcasing the island’s diverse tourism offerings.
In conclusion, Wightlink’s efforts to address the ferry service disruption, alongside various local developments and community engagements on the Isle of Wight, reflect the dynamic nature of the island’s landscape and the commitment to providing quality services and amenities for residents and visitors alike.
