RED OSPREY

General information

Course/Position

Latest news

Ferry suffered fire in galley

The 'Red Osprey' had an on board fire in the afternoon of Oct 20, 2021, as she just about to dock in Southampton. The passengers were forced to make their way to the car deck and don lifejackets as a small fire broke out in the galley of the vessel. The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service was called to the Red Funnel’s Southampton terminal. A total of 6 fire appliances, 5 specialist vehicles and 7 officers have been sent to the scene alongside resources from South Central Ambulance Service – including the Hazard Area Response Team (HART). Associated British Ports wre also on scene. A number of crossings were cancelled as a result. On Oct 21 the ship returned to service. Report with photos: https://www.islandecho.co.uk/fire-breaks-out-on-red-funnel-ferry-11-fire-crews-rush-to-terminal/

Ferry withdrawn from service for urgent repairs

On Aug 27, 2020, the 'Red Osprey' has been withdrawn from service in Southampton following an inspection, in which defects have been found, which will cause travel disruption for those using the ferry over the Bank Holiday weekend. Defects have been noted on the vessel’s aft main engine and the Voith propulsion system. While the two defects were not serious enough to affect the safe operation of the vessel, it was important that immediate repairs were undertaken to prevent greater damage. The repairs are expected to be completed as of Aug 30. The shore-side and on-board teams were doing their very best to help passengers get to their destination as quickly and as safely as possible during this time. All affected passengers with existing bookings will be contacted by Red Funnel and receive the latest information about revised expected departure times. Any customers wishing to amend their booking between now and the end of the bank holiday weekend can do so free of charge, with no additional amendment fees.

Stranded passengers spent night on board

More than 100 passengers spent the night of Feb 15, 2020, on board the 'Red Osprey' confined to port in Southampton as Storm Dennis lashed the coast. When the ferry to the Isle of Wight was cancelled on Feb 15, passengers were allowed on board by the captain to keep warm. Passengers were able to sleep on board and were given a free breakfast in the morning. The ferry was eventually able to depart for east Cowes in the morning of Feb 16. Red Funnels's cross-Solent vehicle ferries and passenger catamaran services were suspended as high winds and heavy rain swept in late on Feb 15.