Wightlink Legend Chris Freemantle Calls It Quits After 44 Years at Sea
Chris Freemantle has hung up his sailor’s cap after an incredible 44 years, four months, and four days working on the car ferries linking the Isle of Wight and the mainland.
33 Years on the Night Shift, 8,000 Trips Under His Belt
For the last 33 years, Chris worked the Portsmouth-Fishbourne night crew. In that time, he racked up a staggering 8,000 trips, sailing 50,400 miles – the equivalent of circling the world more than twice!
“I’ll miss the stunning sunrises over the Solent and the camaraderie with my colleagues,” said Chris. Now, he’s ready to enjoy retirement travelling with family and spoiling his grandchildren.
From Telegram Boy to Ferry Stalwart
Chris, a Southsea local, began his career with Sealink British Ferries (now Wightlink) on 13 January 1975 after brief stints as a telegram boy and apprentice plumber. Over four decades, he served on 19 different ships, becoming a familiar face on these waters.
Wightlink Bosses Pay Tribute
Wightlink Chief Executive Keith Greenfield and Operations Director Daryl Palmer personally joined Chris in Portsmouth before his final voyage. They presented him with a certificate in honour of his remarkable career.
“We are lucky to have colleagues like Chris, who have shown incredible loyalty and dedication. His commitment to safety and customer service has been outstanding,” said Keith Greenfield.
“Chris will be greatly missed, but we hope he enjoys retirement and drops by for a sail now and then.”
