MP Bob Seely is encouraging new ferry services to start competing with the two big cross-Solent ferry firms – Red Funnel and Wightlink.
Mr Seely recently met with Hampshire-based company Fluid.taxi to hear about their plans to expand their existing on-demand water-based taxi service across the Solent.
Mr Seely said: “Introducing new services will not change things overnight, but it will start to offer people a choice from the services offered by Wightlink and Red Funnel.
“Over the past 20 years, Red Funnel and Wightlink services have become slower, less frequent, less reliable and more expensive. They are letting Islanders down.
“Part of the answer to a better deal could be regulation, but equally it would be encouraging new services.
“I met with Fluid.taxi recently to hear more about their exciting plans, using battery-powered vessels made on the Isle of Wight. They will be unveiling exciting announcements in the coming weeks.
“There are several new services trying to start on different cross-Solent routes. I wish them all well. For the Cowes route, I will be contacting Associated British Ports and the Cowes Harbour Commission. They need to be supporting new services.”
A spokesperson for Fluid.taxi said: “We have been offering an on-demand water-based taxi service in the Solent area since 2009.
“Now, we are really excited to be in a position to expand our services further. Look out for announcements soon.”
