A DATE has been set for the resumption of sailings on Wightlink's Lymington to Yarmouth route.

The company says sailings will begin again on July 17 following a gradual relaxation of the lockdown rules and an accompanying rise in demand for ferry services.

Wightlink's decision has been taken in consultation with the Isle of Wight's Transport Infrastructure Board.

A company spokesperson said: "There will be eight round-trip sailings each day, operating roughly every two hours, using one of Wightlink’s Wight-class ferries.

"The first will depart Lymington at 5.35am, the last at 8.05pm.

"Customers will be directed to the passenger lounge or outside sun deck during the crossing and need to wear face coverings during the crossing.

"Toilet facilities will be available but, initially, the café and shop onboard will not be open."

Wightlink's chief executive, Keith Greenfield, added: “I am delighted we can restart services between Lymington and Yarmouth from Friday 17 July.

“Our partnership with the Isle of Wight Council’s Transport Infrastructure Board and the other cross-Solent operators has ensured ferries have kept the Island supplied with essential goods and services throughout the crisis.

“We hope to make an announcement later this summer about resuming our FastCat route between Portsmouth Harbour and Ryde Pier."

Wightlink’s Portsmouth-Fishbourne route has maintained a lifeline service throughout the pandemic.

Hourly sailings on this route will resume from Monday, but customers will continue to stay in their vehicles during the crossings until further notice.

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