The decision by Southampton to Isle of Wight ferry firm Red Funnel to stop featuring service updates for specific sailings via social media has been described as “a backwards step” by customers.

Red Funnel currently posts via the RF Service News (@RF_Travel_News) account on X, formerly Twitter, informing customers of upcoming delays and cancellations to its services.

The account, which is the official feed for Red Funnel travel and ferry service news, has become a crucial tool for many commuters to keep updated on their journeys of choice.

The ferry firm has told the Echo's sister paper the County Press that the account will continue to advise customers of any planned works that may impact the timetable, additional sailings including for Saints games, when there are significant delays, and general travel advice. 

Red Funnel said for specific sailings, customers are encouraged to check the status of their sailing through the Red Funnel app, via SMS alerts and on its website – which will continue to post live updates.

Customers have been flocking to X to share their disappointment and anger at the decision after the ferry firm tweeted that, on May 27, the account “will stop featuring news for specific sailings.”

One customer said: “Appalling bad decision. Letting passengers down yet again.”

Another simply posted: “That is a backward step.”

Another customer said: “Shocking self-interest and lack of customer service! If we don’t tell anyone, it hasn’t happened”

Here’s what other Red Funnel customers had to say:

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A spokesperson for Red Funnel said: “Like many transport operators, Red Funnel will continue to communicate any timetable changes to customers via www.redfunnel.co.uk/service and through the Red Funnel app.

“Customers can also sign up for SMS alerts under the Notification Preferences on their online Red Funnel customer account.”

Red Funnel said any ‘significant delays’ or ‘planned works’ that may impact the timetable, news about additional sailings and general travel advice will still be communicated on the RF Service News X handle, as normal.