Firstly (ha), if you are wondering why I have given this a good rating, yet there appears to be no justification under the specific criteria, this is because I am placing it in comparison to other bus companies in Southampton, which are simply awful. Where to start? The customer service leaves a lot to be desired. Usually, a stern scornful glare greets you on your arrival on the bus instead of a sincere smile. This occurs for a vast amount of the drivers who work for this company (though I will quickly add that there are a handful (one of whom I personally know) that buck this trend).
Their fares are extortionately high, and over the last 5 years or so, the price of a standard dayrider has doubled from £2 to £4, in line with cuts in services, decreasing their network. Though this is endemic of the whole industry and as such is not a direct criticism of First. They have raised their fares even more than their regional rivals, and not use their national clout to deliver more efficient fare prices.
Though a few high-spec buses have been entered into the network, this expense has been compensated by restoring old relics and putting on services that are frequently used by many paying citizens, that smell horrid, whilst these new-spec buses waltz around posh areas with barely a customer.
Concerning reliability, although they have notably improved over recent times, there is still a lot of ground to cover. Whilst some services operate regularly on time, this is usually because they prioritise some routes over others due to their potential profitability and seemingly ignore customer satisfaction.
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
NH Hotels, the hotel chain leader in Europe, with more than 300 hotels in 20 countries in Europe, Latin America and Africa. Enter into our web site and find the best available tariff at all times
Record Rent a Car is present in the main spanish airports and has a very wide fleet. We offer: exceptional discounts, free additional drivers,
unlimited mileage... subscribe to our Club Record and take advantage of special offers.
Advantages: Buses go to all parts of Southampton. New buses provide comfort for all passengers, also good disabled facilities available. Free service from Train Station to the West Quay Shopping Centre. Disadvantages: The old buses are basically awful, needs to get rid of them and bring in newer buses. Needs to win back old bus users and introduce Student schemes.
TYoung 06.09.2001 ·
Read review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful
Review of First Southampton
Oct 14th, 2009
very helpful by (25%):
helpful by (75%):
