The damage suffered by FastCat Ryde after it crashed into Ryde Pier. Picture by Morgan Morey.
ONE of Wightlink's Fastcat vessels suffered damage after crashing in to Ryde Pier last night (Tuesday).
The ferry company confirmed FastCat Ryde, which had departed Portsmouth Harbour at 5.15, landed heavily at the pier and caused superficial damage to the vessel.
No injury was caused to any passengers or crew.
Wightlink stressed the safety of its passengers was paramount and as a precaution the vessel sailed back to Portsmouth with no-one on board.
It has as been withdrawn from service while a full investigation is carried out.
A charter vessel will be in operation today (Wednesday) to ensure the service is maintained during commuter periods.
• If you were onboard this vessel or witnessed the incident call our newsdesk on 522210 or e-mail editor@iwcp2.demon.co.uk
• There is a revised timetable running today (Wednesday) and tomorrow.
The 12.40pm, 1.40 and 2.40 sailings from Portsmouth and the 1.10pm, 2.10, 3.10 and 8.15pm sailings from Ryde have been cancelled. Tomorrow's 5.40am sailing from Portsmouth has also been cancelled.
However, there will be additional sailings from Portsmouth Harbour, at 1.15pm and 2.15 and from Ryde Pier, at 1.45pm and 2.45.
Some sailings will be operated by a charter vessel.
Reporter: mattw@iwcpmail.co.uk