Patrick Riley, Cowes:

I am writing to express my utter outrage and profound frustration regarding the outrageous increase in ferry ticket prices.

This is a blatant exploitation of those who rely on this essential service, and it is high time someone took a stand.

In recent months, the cost of ferry tickets has spiraled out of control, making it virtually impossible for many families, workers, and tourists to afford basic transportation.

What was once a reasonable means of travel has now become a financial burden that is choking the life out of local economies and driving people away.

As someone who owns a property advertised on Airbnb and Home Swap, I have directly suffered the consequences. This year alone, I’ve had multiple booking cancellations because guests refuse to pay the extortionate ferry prices.

This is not just a loss for me; it’s a loss for the entire community that depends on tourism to survive.

How can we expect to keep our local economy afloat when visitors are being driven away by these insane costs?

It is absolutely unacceptable that what should be an essential public service is being treated as a luxury.

Islanders have no choice but to use these ferries for their daily lives — whether it’s for work, accessing services, or simply trying to live their lives.

The current pricing is pushing people to their financial breaking point.

I demand immediate action from the relevant authorities to stop this shameless profiteering and to regulate these prices before the situation worsens. 

Enough is enough.