MORE high-speed crossing from Southampton to the Isle of Wight are to begin from this week.

Red Funnel has announced a new Red Jet timetable for its Southampton to West Cowes route, with more frequent sailings during peak times.

The firm also said that it will put on extra and later departures in the evenings.

The new timetable will take effect from Saturday.

During peak commuter times between 5.35am-9.35am and 4.15pm-6.55pm Monday to Friday, the Red Jet will now depart every 40 minutes.

Extra late-night crossings have also been added and will be available seven days a week, with the last departure from Southampton at 10.55pm.

Fran Collins, chief executive at Red Funnel, said: “We want to make sure our services reflect the changing needs of our passengers, so we’re delighted to share our new Red Jet timetable.

"We always strive to give customers confidence in our services, as well as the flexibility to match their lifestyle, so we hope this comes as very welcome news.”

To view the new timetable, click here.