DFDS Seaways has announced it will start a new service from Dover to Calais from February 17, allowing coach operators to keep their options open when choosing a cross-channel route.
The new route, in partnership with LD Lines, will be operated by one ferry called Norman Spirit, with a further ferry to be added as soon as a suitable ship is available.
The Danish firm will employ 300 staff at sea and ashore in addition to those already employed. The process of hiring people, many former SeaFrance staff, has already started.
DFDS said in a statement: “We are confident our customers and the many people and freight companies that travel between France and Dover will benefit from the flexibility we can now offer with both a northern leg on Dover- Dunkerque and a southern leg on Calais-Dover.
“We therefore look very much forward to being able to welcome passengers as well as freight customers to our new Calais-Dover service, and, in cooperation with our new employees as well as our staff in Dover and Dunkerque, we look forward to providing an attractive and efficient customers service and a sustainable workplace.”
The news was welcomed by Coach Tourism Council (CTC) CEO Chris Wales, who told CBW: “We’re sorry to see the demise of Sea France but we’re delighted to learn CTC member DFDS and LD Lines will now be operating a service between Dover and Calais. We wish them all the best.”
Coach bookings for both Dover – Calais and Dover – Dunkerque routes can be made by contacting DFDS Seaways at [email protected]
