Supporting Wightlink customers who need a little extra help on board
6th May 2025
People travelling to and from the Isle of Wight with Wightlink who would like some more support can now use extra facilities on board one of the larger ferries on the Portsmouth – Fishbourne route. A Calm Room has been installed in a quiet area of St Clare for the use of neurodivergent or overwhelmed customers who may find a busy ferry a little stressful and need a safe space.
Wightlink was advised by AIM Autism Inclusion Matters on the Isle of Wight on the best way to design the room on Deck 4. It has been decorated in neutral colours with blinds to reduce the glare of the sun and there are sensory fidget boards on the walls.
AIM Service Manager Claire Collins saw the final result, when she crossed the Solent on St Clare. “We are pleased that Wightlink took our recommendations on board and made these changes. The room has comfortable sofas and will be a welcoming place for autistic people to relax, ease anxiety and enjoy the crossing. We think the fidget boards will be very popular,” she said.
Part of Deck 5 on St Clare has also been re-modelled as a Quiet Lounge, for customers who would like to avoid the bright lights, noise and crowds while crossing the Solent. Signs at the entrance explain the purpose of the area. There is also a dedicated Quiet area at Wightlink’s Portsmouth vehicle port at Gunwharf Road and a member of port staff can unlock the room, if it’s needed.
Head of Customer Experience Sara Howden says: “By making the journey easier for even a small group of customers, whether through improved navigation at our ports, more accessible equipment, or exceptional service from our staff, we enhance the experience for everyone.
“These satisfied travellers are not only more likely to return, but also to share their positive experiences with others, encouraging more people to cross the Solent with Wightlink.”
In addition, Wightlink has signed up to the Isle of Wight Breastfeeding Scheme to support mothers who would like to nurse their child during their journey to and from the Island.
Colleagues at ports and onboard ships are being given guidance and training on the best ways to offer help to nursing mothers. If they would like privacy, they could use the Quiet areas on St Clare and at the Gunwharf port.
For more information about Wightlink, please contact:
Duty Media Officer
[email protected]
07870906189