Passengers travelling on the Sandbanks Ferry raised more than £2,500 for the RNLI on Christmas Day, with the ferry operator offering free crossings and inviting travellers to donate their usual toll fare to the lifesaving charity.
The ferry has run a free Christmas Day service since 2019, giving back to the community while supporting its charity partner. All passengers travelled free, whether they donated or not.
Jason DuToit, Managing Director of Sandbanks Ferry, said: “Our passengers showed incredible generosity on Christmas Day. Raising this amount in just one day demonstrates how much our community values the RNLI’s lifesaving work.
“We connect Sandbanks and Shell Bay all year round, serving the residents, businesses and visitors who depend on us. Offering free travel on Christmas Day is our way of thanking the local community for their support throughout the year.
“We’re honoured to partner with the RNLI for another year, supporting the crews who keep our coastline safe every single day.”
The RNLI operates from its headquarters in Poole and has saved over 146,000 lives since it was established in 1824. Donations from supporters and dedicated volunteer crews power the charity’s mission to keep UK and Irish waters safe for everyone.
The Sandbanks Ferry operates year-round from 7am to 11.10pm. On Christmas Day, the service runs half-hourly between 8am and 6.10pm.