Hythe Ferry Update - Thursday 9th April 2026
The Hythe Ferry has long been an important and historic transport link for the local community.
Over the past 18 months, the owner of The Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company has worked extensively to try and find a sustainable solution that would allow the service to return.
This included exploring funding opportunities, grant support and inviting potential investors or operators to come forward.
Unfortunately, despite exhausting every possible avenue, no viable proposals or interested parties have emerged.
Following legal advice, the difficult decision has therefore been taken to place The Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company into voluntary liquidation.
This is a deeply disappointing outcome and not one that has been reached lightly. We know how much the ferry means to the local community.
We would like to thank everyone who has supported the ferry during this challenging time.

Car free, carefree and great fun for children, set sail on the Hythe Ferry and enjoy the sights and sounds of the bustling international trading port of Southampton.
The friendly and knowledgeable cycle hire operators will be able to provide you with bikes to meet your needs and advise on the best places to explore on two wheels.
Walking is a wonderful way to see the New Forest National Park close up, with dozens of walk routes that take you into the woods, along the coast, over heathland or by rivers and streams.
Enjoy grandstand views of the National Park and its animals on the open-top New Forest Tour. Explore the Forest in a unique and exciting way. Hop on and off at villages.
Arriving at Hythe Pier, board the World's Oldest Pier Train (official Guinness World Record) and after the short ride of 640 metres (2,100 feet) you will have travelled along one of the ten longest piers in the British Isles.
The Hythe Ferry sails right past the berth of Queen Victoria, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth, when at home. Take a trip on the Hythe Ferry, one of the best views of these Great Ships as you sail past them their home berth.