UPDATED 16:33*
RED FUNNEL has cancelled a number of car ferry sailings today (Friday) due to technical problems with the Red Falcon ferry.
The cancelled crossings are, from East Cowes, the 9.30pm, 12.30pm and 3.30pm, and from Southampton, the 11am and 2pm.
Red Funnel said the cancellations were due to planned overnight maintenance over-running.
The company has advised customers affected by the cancellations to contact the call centre on 0844 844 9988.
At about 11.20am an Isle of Wight Council spokesman said there was heavy traffic congestion in the area and advised motorists to avoid it if possible.
Motorists have also been advised to drive carefully along Fairlee Road, due to mud from the Isle of Wight Festival.
At 3.21pm a spokesman said: "Please be advised that the technical issue that led to the cancellations today between Southampton and East Cowes has been resolved.
"It will take a little time for the timetable to slot back into place but everything possible is being done to minimise delays. The Red Jet service remains unaffected.
"Once again, Red Funnel would like to apologise to guests and other road users for any inconvenience caused by the cancellations which were due to the overrun of overnight engine maintenance on Red Falcon."
*Red Funnel has three car ferries running according to its Twitter travel feed @RF_Travel_News at 4.16pm.
The delayed 3pm sailing from Southampton was due to leave at 4.15pm. The delayed 3.30pm from East Cowes is due to leave at 4.40pm, and the 4.30pm crossing from East Cowes is expected to leave at around 5.25pm.
The company anticipated they would be able to clear the backlog quickly and suggested passengers arrive about half an hour before their booked sailing.