Irish Ferries launches Dover/Calais services (credit: Port of Dover)

Irish Ferries' launch Dover/Calais service

Isle of Inishmore sets sail on the inaugural service from Dover to Calais 

The Isle of Inishmore ship has undergone extensive refurbishments for the new service – including an upgraded Club Class Lounge, with 360-degree sea views, and refreshed, spacious passenger areas. The 90-minute crossing is a breeze, with plenty of amenities onboard. Passengers can avail of free WiFi, re-fuel in Boylan’s Brasserie or Café Lafayette, or let the kids enjoy the soft play area. With new duty-free allowances post Brexit, it’s the perfect opportunity to stock up in the Duty Free shop, or even plan ahead on purchases, with an innovative, online Click & Collect service. Freight drivers can also enjoy the comfortable facilities including a drivers lounge and dedicated new showers.

Andrew Sheen, Managing Director at Irish Ferries, said: “Our newly-launched route between Dover and Calais brings even more choice for freight customers who can now experience our outstanding service while travelling between the UK and France.  We're delighted to bring a little bit of Ireland to this route, and after months of travel limitations, we know that people are very eager to see family and friends, re-ignite business relations, and escape their everyday and take a much-needed holiday. We are in the business of connectivity and want to enable those special memories to be created once travel is permitted again.”

Ferry travel makes for a more relaxed holiday option, with the freedom to pack the car with unlimited luggage, bring pets along, and travel exactly where you want in the comfort of your own car. The Flexibility Option from Irish Ferries also offers additional peace of mind if customers need to change bookings at the last minute. With Irish Ferries ‘Travel Safe’ programme, customers can also travel in confidence; checking in from the security of their own car, sailing with plenty of space in communal areas for natural social distancing onboard, and take in the fresh, sea air from outdoor decks.

Doug Bannister, Chief Executive of the Port of Dover said: “We offer a very warm welcome to Irish Ferries and are delighted to see their operations commence from the UK’s busiest international ro-ro port. There has been considerable work by Port of Dover and all parties associated with this new service launch to get prepared for this day, and we are pleased to see all of those efforts come to fruition.

"This is a clear sign that the market continues to value the high pace, frequency and capacity that Dover offers to keep people and goods flowing via the shortest and most efficient sea crossing between the UK and mainland Europe. The investment by Irish Ferries into this route highlights the ongoing industry recognition of the benefits of operating from our unrivalled location.

"We wish Irish Ferries every success for their new venture with us.”

Fares start from just £69 for a car and up to nine passengers, and ferries will operate with up to 10 daily crossings.