Brittany Ferries says it is showing its confidence in the cross channel market, despite Brexit, by investing around £175 million in a new ferry.
A year since Britain voted to leave the EU, the ferry operator has confirmed details of a new LNG cruise ferry, named Honfleur, after the seaside town in Normandy.
It will operate on the company’s busiest route from Portsmouth to Caen, with a planned arrival in spring 2019.
"Honfleur is proof to our confidence that, despite Brexit, people will still want to visit France, and that demand for travel between the UK and France will remain strong, particularly from those looking to cross the Channel in comfort and style," said commercial director Mike Bevens.
"She will reaffirm our position as a class-leading operator thanks to LNG propulsion and an interior that has been carefully considered to meet the needs of everyone. It’s a huge step forward for us, a clear statement of our intent for the future and a reassuring signal for our customers, 8 in 10 of whom are British."
He said Honfleur would be the most environmentally-friendly vessel operating on the English Channel, emittin less carbon dioxide than diesel following combustion and burning with no smoke.
Free Wi-Fi will come as standard in all cabins and public spaces, and a digital information lounge will serve as a focal point.
There will be two cinemas, children’s play areas, quiet lounges, panoramic views, reading areas, an – la carte restaurant, and a self-service facility, caf-© and bar serving light snacks.
When Honfleur enters the fleet, Brittany Ferries’ cruise-ferry Normandie will switch to the Portsmouth-Le Havre route.
