Wightlink: Portsmouth to see more Isle of Wight ferry passengers after Lymington ferry route closed

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Wightlink will suspend travel on its Lymington to Yarmouth route as of Tuesday, March 31, meaning all passengers will now use the Portsmouth to Fishbourne route.

While the company says the number of passengers has decreased since the prime minister’s lockdown announcement, there are still essential workers who need to travel to and from the island.

The suspension aims to reduce the spread of coronavirus to Wightlink staff and subsequently into nearby communities.

Wightlink chief executive Keith Greenfield said: ‘We know suspending the service will disrupt the travel plans of some customers and we apologise, but it no longer makes sense to continue operating a route with very few customers while exposing our colleagues to risk.

‘We have plenty of capacity on our Portsmouth to Fishbourne ships to carry all the essential travellers who need to cross the Solent at this time.’

Existing Lymington to Yarmouth vehicle bookings are being transferred to the Portsmouth to Fishbourne route.

Customers can amend their tickets for free online or claim a refund from the firm.

Some of the staff working on the Lymington to Yarmouth route will now work on the Portsmouth service.

The firm claims the city’s route has enough room for all the displaced vehicles.

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

Covid-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS