Sandbanks Ferry return delayed after it's badly damaged
The chain ferry won't be back in service until 2023
Last updated 15th Nov 2022
The return of the Sandbanks Ferry has been delayed until the new year.
Bosses say the chain ferry suffered severe damage while being towed to its refit in Falmouth.
It means commuters between Poole and Studland face a 25 mile detour over the busy Christmas period.
An investigation's underway.
In a statement on its website, the operator said: "The Sandbanks Ferry Company has announced today that the ferry arrived in Falmouth on Sunday for the planned refit.
"Unfortunately during the tow from Poole to Falmouth the ferry suffered severe damage to the southern end prow. The exact cause is currently under investigation and findings will be released when they are available.
"The additional work to repair this damage will have a major impact on our completion date and will significantly delay our return to service which we anticipate will not now be until the New Year. We will update our webpage and social media as soon as we have more information."
Sandbanks Ferry Company Managing Director Jason duToit commented: “We apologise to all our customers for the inconvenience this will cause and share their expected frustrations.
"Although for legal reasons we are unable to go into any detail we can confirm that today a letter has been issued to the tug company holding them fully responsible.”
It's a blow for businesses on Studland.
On its Facebook page, the Chamber of Trade Swanage said: "Very sad news for our local businesses.
"Let's hope our visitors still come, and support our lovely local independent shops, at such a vital time leading up to Christmas and over the winter."