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Founded in 1935, Red Funnel is a ferry company based in Southampton, United Kingdom, operating routes between Southampton and the Isle of Wight. With a fleet of five vessels, it provides efficient crossings for passengers and vehicles. Departures are from Southampton Terminals 1 and 2, with arrivals at East Cowes (for vehicles) and West Cowes (for foot passengers). Serving England, it offers convenient travel options for those visiting or commuting to the island. Easily book Red Funnel ferry tickets online now or through the Ferryscanner app.
Red Funnel Routes
Explore Red Funnel routes, updated every 15 days based on popularity. Find ferry crossing times, schedules, and fares.
Latest Offers and Related Articles
Red Funnel Deals: 1/3 Off Isle of Wight Ferries!
25 November 24
Book Isle of Wight ferry travel with Red Funnel this Black Friday and get 1/3 off the total ticket price! Check out all the deals and start planning your trip today.
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Red Funnel Fleet
Red Funnel operates five well-maintained vessels for safe, comfortable travel across the Solent. With clean interiors and open decks, each crossing is reliable and relaxing from beginning to end.
About Red Funnel
Red Funnel, established in 1861, is the original Isle of Wight ferry operator, connecting Southampton with East and West Cowes. Operating year-round, its fleet includes vehicle ferries and Red Jet high-speed catamarans, ensuring reliable crossings. The company carries over 2.3 million passengers and 800,000 vehicles annually. Committed to sustainability, Red Funnel implements eco-friendly initiatives to reduce emissions. Onboard, passengers can enjoy cafés with locally sourced food and spacious lounges with stunning Solent views. Whether commuting or exploring, Red Funnel offers a seamless link to the Isle of Wight.
Red Funnel Check-In & Boarding
Arrival Time
Foot Passengers: Vehicle Ferry (Southampton to East Cowes): Check-in is required at least 30 minutes before departure, but no more than 60 minutes in advance on peak travel dates. Red Jet Hi-Speed Service (Southampton to West Cowes): Check-in closes 15 minutes before departure, so we recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early.
Vehicle Passengers: Check-in 30-60 minutes before departure.
Departure Terminals
Southampton Terminal 1: Services vehicles, foot passengers, and cyclists traveling to East Cowes. Facilities include a waiting room, gift shop, café serving Costa Coffee, vending machines, free Wi-Fi, travel information, and literature on Isle of Wight attractions.
Southampton Terminal 2: Caters to foot passengers using the Red Jet Hi-Speed service to West Cowes. Facilities include a ticket and booking office, self-service ticket machines, visitor information, café serving Costa Coffee, comfortable waiting area with real-time travel information, free Wi-Fi, and toilets.
eTicket Options
eTickets are available. Present your booking reference number or retrieve your booking via a smartphone at the check-in booth.
Web Check-In
Web check-in is not supported.
Paper Ticket
Paper tickets are available and can be printed at our office or at the port. We recommend avoiding printing to prevent loss and complications.
Booking Confirmation
Use your booking confirmation code at the ferry company’s ticket booth to collect your physical ticket or boarding pass.
Vehicles On Board
Red Funnel operates ferries that accommodate vehicles, including bicycles and motorcycles. For cars, campers, and trucks, check prices during booking or contact support.
Required Documents
Ensure you have your booking reference number and identification documents ready when boarding.
Red Funnel Onboard Amenities
Stay connected with onboard WiFi, grab a bite at the restaurant or snack bar, and browse duty-free shopping. Kids can enjoy the children’s area, while TVs keep everyone entertained. Pet kennels are available for furry companions.
Wi-Fi Access
Stay connected with onboard Wi-Fi throughout your trip.
Restaurant
Enjoy delicious meals with full-service onboard dining options.
Snack Bar
Quick snacks and drinks available at the snack bar.
Duty Free
Shop tax-free for exclusive products and souvenirs onboard.
Kids' Play Areas
Fun play areas designed for children to enjoy.
TV
Entertainment screens available in lounges or cabins.
Pet Kennels
Safe, secure, and comfortable kennels for travelling pets.
Accessible Travel for All
Red Funnel’s ferries offer wheelchair accessibility, elevators and escalators for a more accessible journey. Support is available for People with Reduced Mobility (PRM) to help make travel more comfortable.
Wheelchair Access
Ramps and spaces for easy wheelchair access.
Elevators
Elevators provide easy access across all decks.
Escalators
Convenient escalators for fast access between decks.
Red Funnel Discounts
Travel smart with Red Funnel and enjoy great discounts! Children under 15 get 50% off, while little ones under 5 travel for free. Youths aged 16-19 and seniors over 60 can also save 30% on their journey.
Infant Travel
Infants under 5 travel for free.
Child Ticket
Children under 15 get 50% off.
Loyalty Program
Join the Loyalty Reward Scheme to access exclusive discounts and benefits.
Passengers without a Vehicle
No car? No worries! Hop aboard any Red Funnel ferry as a foot passenger and enjoy hassle-free boarding. Settle into comfy seats, grab a bite, and soak up the views; all with full access to onboard facilities. Easy, breezy sailings await!
Transfer of an unaccompanied vehicle with Red Funnel
An unaccompanied vehicle cannot be transferred with Red Funnel. If you need clarification or further details, please contact our support team.
Red Funnel Pet Policy
Pets are welcome on Red Funnel ferries, so you can travel with your companion by your side. Just follow these guidelines to help keep the trip safe and comfortable for everyone:
- Pets travel free on all crossings.
- Pet-friendly lounges are available on Red Eagle, Red Osprey, and Red Falcon, offering water bowls and space for pets.
- Dogs must remain on a lead, and other pets should be securely contained in suitable carriers.
- No free roaming—pets must stay in designated areas.
- Service dogs are welcome in all passenger areas and are exempt from restrictions.
For more details or assistance with traveling with pets, contact Ferryscanner support before booking!
Loyalty Program
Red Funnel offers a loyalty program called the Loyalty Reward Scheme. Members enjoy exclusive benefits:
- Collect points on ferry bookings
- Redeem points for discounts on future trips
- Access special offers and promotions
- No membership fees, just savings
While we don’t support the membership card directly as it isn’t permitted, feel free to reach out to our support team for any further details.
Red Funnel Luggage Allowance
With Red Funnel, you can bring along two suitcases and a piece of hand luggage without worrying about weight limits or extra charges. If you’re traveling with a vehicle, you can load up as much luggage as you like. Just a heads-up, luggage trolleys are available at the terminals but aren’t allowed on the ferry. Plan ahead and count on Ferryscanner to keep you in the loop, so everything goes without any surprises on the day of your trip.
Guiding Principles
Red Funnel delivers safe, reliable, and enjoyable ferry travel, connecting communities and enriching journeys across the Solent. With a focus on passenger satisfaction, sustainability, and regional connectivity, every crossing is designed for comfort and efficiency. Through exceptional service and responsible operations, Red Funnel supports local businesses, tourism, and seamless travel experiences for all.
Destinations Available with Red Funnel
East Cowes, Isle of Wight Sicily
