When a picture showing Robin Hill's iconic Colossus ride on an Isle of Wight ferry appeared on social media, many feared the worst.

Given news that the popular Isle of Wight attraction is up for sale, it was assumed the photo was confirmation of the swinging boat leaving for good.

The picture shows the Roman-style galley boat strapped on the back of a lorry, on a ferry.

After seeing it, Islanders took to Facebook to share their memories of the ride, which has been a staple of the country park for around 24 years.

Have you got a favourite memory or photo of Isle of Wight ride Colossus?

  • Send a photo to editor@iwcp.co.uk or message us on Facebook, tag us on Instagram or X

When it arrived here from Italy in March 2000, Colossus was described as "the biggest and best" ride on the Isle of Wight.

The County Press reported on its arrival at the time.

Isle of Wight County Press: A clipping from the County Press when Colossus came to the Island.A clipping from the County Press when Colossus came to the Island. (Image: Isle of Wight County Press)

Although questions remain over its long-term future, the County Press can confirm the ferry photo is not of Colossus leaving for pastures new.

Vectis Ventures, which runs the attraction, said the ship has indeed gone to the mainland, but not to a new home.

A statement from the company said: "Colossus has gone to the mainland for refurbishment."

As previously reported by the County Press, Vectis Ventures, which also runs Blackgang Chine, announced Robin Hill was going up for sale in October last year.

It came after the country park's earlier-than-usual closure.

In November, it was put on the market through Savills, for a guide price of £2.25 million.

Read more: Popular Isle of Wight attraction Robin Hill price revealed

At the time, Kay Griffiths, associate director in the leisure and trade-related team at Savills, said: “Robin Hill offers a unique opportunity to acquire a popular visitor attraction on the Isle of Wight. 

"Tourism in the Isle of Wight amounts to roughly 2.6 million visitors a year, with a spend of over £280 million.

"The buyer can expect to benefit from the footfall as well as the local population nearing 140,000 people.

"This property has strong investment features as well as scope for further development with planning consents already approved, so we expect a high level of interest from a broad range of investors and operators.”