Hythe Ferry Update - Wednesday 4th February 2026

The Hythe Ferry has long been an iconic and historic transport link, connecting Hythe and Southampton for generations. Serving both local commuters and visitors, it remains a vital part of the Solent’s heritage and community.
 
Since Red Funnel’s acquisition of the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company in September 2023, the ferry has operated over 5,500 sailings and carried more than 70,000 passengers, providing essential connectivity at a time when the service might otherwise have ended.
 
To date, Red Funnel has made significant investment into the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company, including a complete vessel refit, ongoing running costs, upgrade works and pontoon repairs. We have continued to support key team members while working tirelessly to secure funding for further essential infrastructure and safety works. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, the service has remained suspended since August 2024 due to ongoing infrastructure and funding challenges.
 
Following its acquisition of Red Funnel and subsidiary, the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company, 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.
 
This is an exciting opportunity for an investor to acquire the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company. Allowing them to bring innovation and technology to a well-established service with strong local support and heritage value. Interested parties should contact enquiries@hytheferry.co.uk for more information by 19th February 2026.  In the interest of all parties, it is expected that this process is completed within a rapid timeline.
 
We continue to work closely with the Hythe Pier owner during this transition and remain committed to supporting colleagues. We would like to thank everyone who has supported the ferry during this challenging period, including those who contributed to the GoFundMe page. Funds raised will continue to be allocated to repair the pontoon, however, anyone wishing to have their donation returned should contact

enquiries@hytheferry.co.uk
 
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.