Three-Hour Ferry Chaos as Person Threatens to Jump at Portsmouth Harbour
A major disruption has hit Wightlink’s Portsmouth Gunwharf terminal this morning after a person threatened to jump off a ferry just before departure. The emergency unfolded early Thursday, triggering a massive police operation and causing three-hour delays on cross-Solent sailings.
Heart-Stopping Drama at Portsmouth Ferry Terminal
Coastguard rescue teams in drysuits rushed to the scene shortly after 4am, scrambling from Portsmouth and Hillhead. Specialist police negotiators engaged with the individual who made the threat moments before the 3am sailing was due to leave Portsmouth.
The 3am ferry failed to depart, while the last vessel, the Victoria of Wight, docked back at Portsmouth just before 2am. This unexpected incident led to an immediate suspension of the Portsmouth-Fishbourne service until further notice.
Travel Chaos Looms for Islanders and Tourists
Hampshire Constabulary urged the public via Twitter to avoid the terminal as authorities manage the situation. Wightlink confirmed the disruption is due to a “customer-related” emergency, but details remain scarce.
Thousands heading to or from the Isle of Wight are warned to prepare for severe delays throughout today, with some cancellations expected to last the whole day. Wightlink advised passengers not to travel to the terminal until further updates.
Wightlink Responds to Disrupted Service
A Wightlink spokesperson said:
“All customers booked on this route today are likely to be affected. We will keep them informed through email this morning.”
Although the immediate crisis is reported “resolved,” the Portsmouth-Fishbourne ferry service remains suspended, with no timetable yet for a return to normal operations.
