RED Funnel’s flagship Red Eagle has returned to service today between Southampton and East Cowes with a brand new look following an extensive £3m interior refit.

The refit mirrors the work carried out to Red Falcon (2014) and Red Osprey (2015) and was carried out by Solent marine specialists Trimline, SMS and Wight Shipyard.

The work involved the replacement of the passenger accommodation on B deck and the creation of two new public lounges on A deck and new outside viewing space on AA deck.

The ship’s interior has been brought right up-to-date with a contemporary new look that includes more seating.

High-capacity Wi-Fi, charging points for phones, tablets and laptops, air conditioning and digital entertainment are just a few of the features available to everyone on board. CCTV and air conditioning has also been installed throughout the ship.

On A deck there’s an upmarket new pet lounge and a purpose built Signature Lounge. For a £10 fee, passengers can enjoy the premium service offered in the Signature Lounge. Limited to just 40 people, guests will have access to a well-stocked library of magazines, newspapers, books and inclusive premium tea and coffee, cold drinks and pastries.

Thirty-five 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.

Lift access is now available from the main car decks at E and C levels to the passenger areas at B and A levels.

Kevin George, Red Funnel’s chairman and chief executive 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.”