Passengers happy with 'very smooth' ride on ferry

Those on yesterday morning's sailing from Poole were generally positive about the vessel, despite the rough seas mid-Channel.

Karen Chatt, 46, from Berkshire, said the motion was different.

'It was more like being on an aeroplane than a boat and very smooth and very quiet,' she said.

'It was a bit disorganised when we were getting off, but the seats were nice.'

Alison Glazier, 50, from Shipton Gorge, Dorset, who was coming to the island for a hockey tournament, said she had enjoyed the trip.

'It was a bit rough in places and one or two people suffered as a result, but the facilities on board are good,' she said.

'It was just a nice crossing.'

Royal Marine Kerrin Batiste, 24, agreed.

'I know what people are saying about Condor Liberation, but I've been on it three times now and I've never had a problem,' he said.

'It was a bit choppy out there and the boat swayed a bit, but it was fine.'