Ferry good news for Dover and UK plc!

New ships, new operators, more services this summer

Underlining Dover’s prominence as the UK’s busiest roll-on/roll-off port for freight and passengers, Summer 2021 sees a host of new investments at the Port of Dover, with new ships, new operators and more services operating from the Kent port.

Freight continues to be a major driver of new investment as Dover retains its dominance as the most efficient transport link for goods between the UK and Europe.  The Port of Dover remained open for vital trade throughout the pandemic and is preparing for the return of passengers as and when international travel opens up.

A new operator at the Port this summer is Irish Ferries who join the fray on the premier Dover to Calais route from June 2021.  Initially operating a single ship, the company intends to grow to a three-ship fleet from the third quarter this year and enhancing the landbridge via Dover with the Republic of Ireland for importers and exporters.

DFDS meanwhile introduce the longest ever ferry to operate from Dover.  The 214m long Côte D’Opale enters service from Dover to Calais this summer.  DFDS operate a fleet of six ships serving both Calais and Dunkerque.

P&O Ferries operate a five-ship service on Dover/Calais with the return of the Pride of Burgundy.  Construction is now also underway on two revolutionary new double-ended ferries due to enter service with P&O Ferries from Dover in 2023.

If you're staying closer to home on a staycation in 2021 why not explore the new Clock Tower Square, opening soon on Dover Waterfront and part of the £250m Dover Western Docks Revival.