Wightlink Isle of Wight Ferries, the market leader in cross Solent ferry services, has released artist’s impressions of some of the detail to be incorporated into the interiors of its two new ships being built for the company’s Lymington to Yarmouth route.

The new designs have been prepared by LAP Architects of Billericay, Essex and the fitting out work will be carried out by a specialist company in conjunction with the constructors of the new ships, Brodogradiliste Krajevica in Croatia.

The new designs aim to create a light, airy and colourful interior, giving plenty of space for passengers yet at the same time ensuring comfortable and functional public areas. It is also hoped to encompass the special charm that has become the tradition of the Lymington to Yarmouth route vessels.

The new ferries will carry up to 360 passengers and 65 cars when introduced to service. They are being built to Lloyd’s Register of Shipping standards and although a fraction bigger than the existing ferries, the new ships will easily be able to navigate the narrow channel up the Lymington River.

Completion is due for the spring of next year and the two ferries are scheduled to start services in time for the height of the summer season in 2008.

Commenting on the new interior designs, Kerry Jackson, Marketing Manager of Wightlink Isle of Wight Ferries, said:-

“What we are trying to achieve here are practical interiors with plenty of colour and light to enhance the cross Solent experience for our passengers. Those who are familiar with our existing vessels will see a huge difference with the new ferries in terms of space, design and functionality and we feel confident that, once in service, they will be well received by our customers.”

ENDS

20th July 2007

For more information, please contact: -

Kerry Jackson, Marketing Manager, Wightlink Isle of Wight Ferries
Tel. 023 9285 5427, e-mail kerryjackson@wightlink.co.uk

or

Christopher Clode at Christopher Clode Public Relations
Tel. 01243 431343, e-mail chris@chrisclodepr.com

Notes to Editors:

• Some facts about the new Wightlink Ferries

• Around 700 tons of steel will be used in the construction of each ship

• Each ship will have four main engines – Volvo D16MHs (6 cylinder, 552 kW)

• Propulsion for each ship will be provided by 2 x Voith Schneider 21 R5/135 propeller units

• Interior design will be by LAP Architects of Billericay, Essex

• During their expected lives, each ferry will undertake more than 200,000 trips and will cover more than 750,000 nautical miles.