ONE of Southampton's most well-known ferries has returned to the Solent after a major £2.2m refit.

Daily Echo:

Red Funnel's Red Osprey ferry is back on the water and people will be given a sneak preview tomorrow.

It will be an Isle of Wight-themed open day talking people through the ship's new look at Terminal One at Southampton's Royal Pier.

Today the Daily Echo will be given a tour ahead of the event to explore the new and improved facilities and hear from chief executives about the refurbishment.

It was given the green light last year following a record-breaking year for Red Funnel, which saw traffic levels up 15 per cent over the main summer holiday period.

The company cited the upgrade of the passenger accommodation on the Red Falcon vessel, which returned to service last April.

The upgraded Red Osprey includes 55 per cent more inside seats, two new lounges, a new interior design, air-conditioning throughout the ship, free Wi-Fi in all passenger areas, and lift and wheelchair access to the outer promenade deck.

A total of 35 digital screens have been installed to show TV, a live video feed from bridge-top cameras, real-time travel information, and visitor information, and two 65in interactive touch-screens capable of hosting children's games and quizzes.

Kevin George, chief executive of Red Funnel, will be speaking on board the ship later today but ahead of the tour said: “We are delighted to have undertaken further significant investment work following very positive feedback from customers who have travelled on Red Falcon.

Daily Echo:

“The refurbishment of Red Osprey further underpins our commitment to the Isle of Wight as we work with partners and stakeholders to help grow the Island's economy.”

Tomorrow people are invited on a whistlestop tour between 10am and 4pm at Red Funnel's Terminal 1 with 35 producers exhibiting their new products onboard and entertainment.

The ship will operate two mini-cruises, giving 1,000 pre-booked guests the chance to see the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt anchored in Stokes Bay.

Wave 105 presenter and ferry enthusiast Rick Jackson will be onboard for the morning cruise, with morning show host Mark Collins joining in the fun in the afternoon.

Daily Echo:

All those attending will receive exclusive travel vouchers and details of how to enter a spring prize-draw to win one of 101 fantastic prizes including an amazing 4 night holiday.

There will also be two free cruises departing from Southampton at 11am and 2.25pm to give people the chance to explore the new-look ferry.

Daily Echo:

Guests can apply for free tickets through Red Funnel's website on a first come, first served basis.

To apply for tickets, visit redfunnel.co.uk/openday or call 0844 8449988.

TOP TEN Things onboard the Red Osprey that will float your boat:

· Two luxurious new passenger lounges with panoramic views across the Solent, both fitted with a steam cafe bar.

· New sun decks outside for relaxed viewing of Southampton waters.

· Lift access from main car decks and air conditioning in all passenger lounges.

· 35 LED screens showing the vessel's position, points of interest and real-time travel information for road, rail, air and coach services as well as a live TV showing major sporting events.

· Free Wi-Fi for passengers using their phones or tablets as well as charging points for any electrical goods.

· CCTV has been fitted to improve security.

· LED lighting throughout the ship to reduce energy consumption.

· A new restaurant menu with food sourced from the Isle of Wight.

· Customers travelling on Red Osprey will be able to change or make new bookings easily as well as purchase tickets for big attractions like festivals.

· Specially trained staff will also be on board offering tourism advice.