Dover.uk.com

The Front Page. - Copy 176 (£85M Port Investment. Spirit of Britain. National Ferry Fortnight)

13 May 2011

HUGE PORT INVESTMENT ANNOUNCED.



Port of Dover asserts its position as Europe’s premier ferry port with massive investment.



Press Release:The Port of Dover has approved a major capital investment plan totalling around £85 million which will see the port’s current ferry terminal receiving a major upgrade by 2015. The investment includes capacity improvements and pier extensions to cater for the new ‘super-ferries’, major improvements to the existing berths and the complete replacement of berth 6, additional assembly and pre-assembly space and major resurfacing works.

This significant programme of improvements will ensure that Dover’s existing ferry port is utilised to the full, providing first class facilities and infrastructure in advance of even bigger plans for a brand new second ferry terminal to double the capacity of the port.

The convenience and reliability of ferry travel has consistently made the headlines, with last year’s ash cloud and snow crises demonstrating the efficiency and robustness of the operation and the exceptional levels of service provided by committed and skilled staff. These events brought even more passengers to experience the benefits of ferry travel. With sailings every 30 minutes during peak times and a typical mid-week day offering 54 sailings from P&O Ferries, DFDS Seaways and SeaFrance, it is no wonder that passenger numbers are on the up.

Kate O Hara, Head of Commercial and Marketing said;
“Despite the tough economic climate, the port has seen growth in the tourist sector and the business is buoyant and optimistic. This has been confirmed by the introduction of new and bigger vessels, including the largest ferry ever to sail from Dover, P&O’s Spirit of Britain. The Port has supported its customers’ optimism through its major investment programme and will continue to do so in the coming years.”

Stunning top picture directly from DHB


This stunning picture has just come in directly from P&O themselves..it certainly is a striking stunner and one of the best pictures we have carried... and we have shown some good ones over time. It shows the Spirit of Britain in full flight as it were, in total harmony with the glorious White Cliffs behind.



National Ferry Fortnight



With Britain's third National Ferry Fortnight starting on May 14, please find attached a picture of the latest addition to the UK ferry fleet, the Spirit of Britain which was officially named by Dame Kelly Holmes on 24 March. Spirit of Britain is by far the largest ferry ever built for the Dover - Calais service, at 47,594 gross registered tonnes, and will be joined by its twin sister, Spirit of France, in September. The combined cost of the two new ships is €360 million - the largest investment ever made by P&O Ferries.

What is National Ferry Fortnight?

National Ferry Fortnight is an event supported by all ferry members of the Passenger Shipping Association, the industry body that represents cruise and ferry operators. This year it takes place between 14 and 28 May. It will be the third annual Ferry Fortnight and is designed to raise awareness of the range of ferry services available within the UK and to promote the ferry travel experience. During the fortnight operators run a series of special promotional offers to support the PR campaign, which will feature in top national newspaper titles.

National Ferry Fortnight Promotion from SEAFRANCE:

– To celebrate National Ferry Fortnight, all customers that book a return crossing with SeaFrance throughout the two-week period from 14-28 May 2011, will receive a free child’s meal with every adult’s meal purchased at onboard restaurant Le Relais. What’s more, with any duration crossings available from just £30 each way for a car and up to nine passengers this summer, a family holiday across the Channel is a really affordable option.

Le Relais is a friendly self service restaurant offering a range of delicious French and international cuisine, along with numerous vegetarian options and dishes that the whole family will enjoy. This offer is valid on crossings between 1 June and 4 September 2011 and must be booked between 14 and 28 May 2011

To enjoy this offer, customers will need to quote NFF2011 when making the booking.

SeaFrance operates up to 30 daily car ferry crossings on the Dover-Calais route. Fares for a car and up to nine passengers start from just £30 each way (£60 return) online for any duration and from £22 return for a day trip.


To book your crossing visit www.seafrance.com or call 0871 22 22 500*

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