A new late-night Red Jet sailing has been commissioned for later this month, giving Islanders a midnight return option from Southampton.
Richard Quigley and his wife Leah Rice are set to fund the first sailing of Red Funnel’s newly-launched late-night Red Jet charter service through their Cowes-based fish and chip shop, Corries Cabin.
The first additional crossing is scheduled for Saturday 23rd May, with a midnight departure from Southampton after the end of the normal Red Jet timetable, as previously reported by Island Echo.
The new charter service has been developed following discussions between the Isle of Wight West MP and the ferry operator, with the aim of improving flexibility and connectivity for Islanders travelling to and from the mainland.
Under the arrangement, additional Red Jet crossings can be chartered outside of the standard timetable when demand exists. Although each sailing must be commissioned in advance, tickets will be made available to the public through the Red Funnel website.
The new service is expected to benefit Islanders attending theatre shows, concerts and events in Southampton, as well as those returning from trips to London later in the evening.
Richard Quigley said:
“I’m thrilled that Red Funnel have worked with me to make this late-night charter service possible, and even more pleased to be chartering the first sailing through Corries Cabin.
“The late-night crossing will make a real difference to Islanders. We all know what it’s like to go to the theatre or a gig in Southampton and have to leave early to catch the last Red Jet.
“This new service will let people enjoy a night out to Southampton or even get back from London the very same night.
“While there is still much more to do to improve ferry services and ensure they are treated as the vital lifeline they are, it’s important to recognise meaningful steps forward like this. I’m excited to see how these new charter services give Islanders of all ages greater freedom to travel and enjoy new opportunities off Island.”
The initiative follows Mr Quigley’s free ferry ticket scheme launched in 2025 for Isle of Wight residents turning 18.
Neil Chapman, Operations Director at Red Funnel, added:
“Supporting Island communities and the local businesses that help them thrive is something we really care about at Red Funnel.
“We’ve been pleased to work with Richard and Leah to help bring this initiative forward, and to see the first Red Jet charter delivered with the backing of a local business.”
