Operator: Red Funnel
Route: Southampton (Town Quay) ↔ West Cowes (Isle of Wight)
Vessels: Red Jet 6, Red Jet 7 (High-Speed Catamarans)
Journey Time: Approx. 28 minutes
For those looking to trade the urban energy of Hampshire for the maritime charm of the Isle of Wight in under half an hour, the Red Funnel RedJet is the undisputed champion of the Solent. This isn’t just a ferry crossing; it’s a high-speed catamaran service that serves as a vital artery for commuters and a magic carpet for day-trippers.
Forget the slow chug of the car ferry—this foot-passenger-only service zips you across Southampton Water at speeds of up to 38 knots, delivering you directly into the heart of the yachting world.
Why this route is a winner
The RedJet offers a unique blend of efficiency and exhilaration. While the larger vehicle ferries take a leisurely hour to reach East Cowes, the RedJet docks in West Cowes in less than 30 minutes. This difference is crucial for foot passengers.
West Cowes is the “happening” side of the river, packed with boutique shops, sailing clubs, and restaurants the moment you step off the gangway. You don’t need a car here; you are immediately immersed in the action. Plus, the journey itself is a spectacle. You’ll weave past some of the world’s largest cruise ships and container vessels, offering a front-row seat to the industrial majesty of Southampton before arriving at the quaint, historic waterfront of Cowes.
The journey: what to expect
The trip begins at Southampton Town Quay (Terminal 2). As the catamaran pushes back, have your camera ready. You’ll navigate the confluence of the Rivers Test and Itchen, often passing under the bows of massive cruise liners like the Queen Mary 2 or P&O’s latest giants docked at the Ocean Cruise Terminal.
As the vessel powers up, you’ll speed past:
- Hythe Pier: Look to the right (starboard) to see the historic 640m pier and its tiny electric train.
- Calshot Spit: A distinct sandbank housing an old Tudor castle and a modern activities centre.
- The Solent Forts: On a clear day, you can spot the Victorian sea forts guarding the eastern approaches.
The arrival into Cowes is the highlight. You enter a bustling harbour filled with yachts, racing skiffs, and the famous Union Jack door of the Royal Yacht Squadron. You step off directly onto the High Street, ready to explore.
Onboard amenities
Despite the short crossing time, the RedJet vessels (specifically Red Jet 6 and 7) are equipped for comfort. They are strictly passenger-only, meaning no cars to slow down loading times.
- Seating: Comfortable, airline-style seats with plenty of legroom.
- Tech: Free Wi-Fi and USB charging points are available, perfect for a quick bit of work or posting your sea-view selfies.
- Facilities: There are toilets on board and climate control (A/C) to keep things cool in summer and cosy in winter.
- Refreshments: While there isn’t a full café like on the car ferry, you will find vending facilities for hot/cold drinks and snacks.
Practical details: frequency and tickets
This is a turn-up-and-go service for the most part, though booking online can save time.
- Frequency: The service runs 7 days a week, year-round (except Christmas Day).
- Peak Times (Commuter hours): Sailings run roughly every 35–40 minutes.
- Off-Peak & Weekends: Sailings are generally every 60–70 minutes.
- Tickets: You can buy tickets online, via the Red Funnel app, or at the ticket machines in the terminal. Contactless pay-as-you-go is also available at the gates.
- Value for Money:
- Day Returns: These are your best bet for a day out. Look for “Super Off-Peak” tickets if you are travelling after 11:00 am for significant savings.
- Group Save: Travelling with friends or family? Group tickets (for 3 or more people) often work out cheaper than buying individually.
Connections: getting to the terminal
One of the best perks of this route is the Quayconnect bus in Southampton.
- The Deal: If you hold a valid Red Funnel ferry ticket, travel on the Quayconnect bus is free.
- The Route: It links Southampton Central Rail Station, Westquay Shopping Centre, and the RedJet Terminal (Town Quay).
- Evening Service: In a recent upgrade, the connection now runs later into the evening via the Bluestar Route 19, ensuring you aren’t stranded if you catch a late boat back.
At the Cowes end: The terminal is right next to the bus stands for Southern Vectis. The Route 1 bus departs frequently, whisking you to Newport (the island’s capital) in about 20 minutes, where you can connect to the rest of the Isle of Wight network.
Top tips for the journey
- Bicycles: Warning for cyclists! Unlike the car ferry, the RedJet only accepts folding bicycles. They must be in a bag/case. If you have a standard road or mountain bike, you must use the vehicle ferry to East Cowes (about a mile down the river).
- Sit by the window: The windows on the Red Jet 7 are large and tinted, designed to give great views without the glare.
- Luggage: There are luggage racks for suitcases, but space can be tight during the morning rush hour. Travel light if you can.
- Pets: Dogs travel free! It’s a very dog-friendly service, though they must remain on a lead.
Planning a day out on this route
Here is a blueprint for a perfect car-free day:
- 09:30: Arrive at Southampton Central Station and hop on the free Quayconnect bus to Town Quay.
- 10:00: Board the RedJet. Grab a window seat and watch the mainland fade away.
- 10:30: Land in West Cowes. Walk straight up the High Street, browsing the nautical shops and grabbing a coffee at a local bakery.
- 11:30: Walk along the Parade towards Egypt Point to watch the sailing races, or hop on the Route 1 bus to Newport, then switch to the Route 4 or 5 to visit Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s stunning holiday home.
- 16:00: Head back to Cowes for an early dinner at a harbour-side pub.
- 18:00: Catch the RedJet back to Southampton as the sun sets over the Solent.
Whether you are a maritime history buff, a shopping enthusiast, or just someone who loves the feeling of salt spray and speed, the RedJet is a brilliant way to travel. It transforms a standard commute into a mini-adventure.
