Hythe Ferry Put Up for Sale as Operators Seek New Investor

The future of the Hythe Ferry remains uncertain after its operators announced they are seeking a new owner for the historic service, which has been suspended since August 2024.

The Hythe Ferry, which has connected Hythe and Southampton for generations, has long been regarded as a key transport link for local commuters and a valued part of the Solent’s maritime heritage.

Red Funnel acquired the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company in September 2023, stepping in at a time when the service was at risk of ceasing altogether. During its period of operation, the ferry completed more than 5,500 sailings and carried over 70,000 passengers.

Since the acquisition, Red Funnel has invested significantly in the service, including a full vessel refit, ongoing operational costs, upgrade works, and pontoon repairs. The company also continued to support key staff members while seeking funding for further essential infrastructure and safety improvements. However, despite these efforts, ongoing funding and infrastructure challenges led to the suspension of the service in August 2024.

Following the recent acquisition of Red Funnel and its subsidiary, the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company, by Njord Partners, the new owners have confirmed that while they recognise the ferry’s historic importance, the service does not align with their long-term operational expertise or portfolio. As a result, they are now actively seeking a new owner to take the ferry forward.

The sale is being positioned as an opportunity for an investor to restore and modernise the service, bringing new technology and innovation to a well-established route with strong local support and heritage value. Interested parties have been invited to contact enquiries@hytheferry.co.uk by 19 February 2026, with the process expected to move quickly.

Operators say they continue to work closely with the owner of Hythe Pier during the transition and remain committed to supporting colleagues affected by the suspension.

They have also thanked members of the public who contributed to a GoFundMe campaign set up to support the ferry. Funds raised will continue to be used for pontoon repairs, although donors who wish to have their contributions returned have been advised to contact the company directly.

Despite the ongoing challenges, those involved remain hopeful that with the right investor and continued community engagement, the Hythe Ferry can be preserved and developed for future generations.