THE Red Eagle has landed.

The Red Funnel ship has returned to service today between Southampton and East Cowes, with a brand-new look, following an extensive £3m interior refit.

The ship's interior has been brought up-to-date with a contemporary look and more internal seats.

The refit was carried out by Solent marine specialists Trimline, SMS and Wight Shipyard and involved the replacement of passenger accommodation on B deck, the fabrication and fitting of two new stylish public lounges on A deck and new outside viewing space on AA deck.

The two main passenger areas on B deck have been completely replaced modern seating and new lighting. There is now an upmarket pet lounge on A deck and a purpose built Signature Lounge.

High-capacity Wi-Fi, charging points for phones, tablets and laptops, air conditioning and digital entertainment are now available and CCTV has also been installed throughout the ship to improve security.

The ship has a brand new food galley and for entertainment, 35 LED screens showing the vessel’s position, local points of interest and real-time travel information for road, rail and coach services have been fitted. BBC rolling news will be screened in the bar area on B deck.

Red Funnel’s chairman and chief executive Kevin George said: "Red Eagle marks the culmination of a £7m+ investment programme to provide our vehicle customers with a fleet-wide travel experience that matches the best in the UK ferry industry.

"The investment further demonstrates our commitment to the Isle of Wight as we work with partners and stakeholders to help grow the Island’s economy."