These watermen had enjoyed protected rights between 1603 and 1840, limiting operation of ferries on the route to Gosport residents.

In 1840, a steam operated chain ferry was introduced,[2] to a design similar to that already in use at Woolston.

The takeover was met with controversy as it was believed that a single shareholder would cut investment and raise fares.

[6] On 10 December the Falkland Island Company released a statement announcing it had over 51% of the total shares and setting out the terms for the purchase of the rest.

In response to the challenges posed by the 2020 pandemic, the ferry service has undergone adjustments to its schedule.