Red Funnel and its owner, Njord Partners, have confirmed plans to sell the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company, the subsidiary running the Southampton to Hythe passenger service.
Red Funnel took over in September 2023, operating 5,500 sailings and carrying 70,000 passengers while investing in a vessel refit, upgrades and pontoon repairs.
But the ferry, described as a ‘vital link’ for commuters and tourists, has been suspended since August 2024 due to damaged pier infrastructure and funding shortfalls.
Hythe ferry (Image: Newsquest)
But Njord now feels its expertise “aren’t best suited to operate the service moving forward” and has put the company up for sale.
A Hythe Ferry spokesperson said: “Njord Partners recognises the ferry’s historic importance but feels its expertise and portfolio aren’t best suited to operate the service moving forward.
“Therefore, we are actively seeking a new owner who shares our vision to restore, modernise and unlock the full potential of this historic route.”
Hythe Ferry is pitching it as “an exciting opportunity for an investor to acquire the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company,” urging interested parties to get in touch by February 19 for a fast handover.
The Hythe Ferry spokesperson added: “While it is deeply disappointing that more progress could not be made to resume the service, we remain hopeful that, with a new investor and strong community engagement, the Hythe Ferry will be preserved, modernised and developed for generations to come.”
Hythe and Dibden Parish Council welcomed Red Funnel’s letter as “long-awaited clarity.”
Chair Cllr Sean Cullen said: “We welcome the clarity provided today. After months of uncertainty, it is helpful for residents and stakeholders to understand the direction of travel.
“Hythe Ferry is a vital local transport link with deep community roots, and the Parish Council stands ready to work constructively with all prospective bidders to encourage a rapid and sustainable return to service.”
The council has promised to engage ‘positively’ with interested parties, the Hythe Pier Company and other stakeholders to ensure the community interest is fully understood.
