Ferry operator DFDS Seaways has axed its only German tourist route following the loss of duty-free sales and growing competition from low cost airlines.
The company said the decision to withdraw from the Harwich to Cuxhaven route was based on “commercial reasons” following “intensifying economic pressure.”
The chartered ship, Duchess of Scandinavia, will be returned to the Norwegian owners.
DFDS stressed it would remain committed to Germany as a holiday destination despite Cuxhaven being its only tourist route into the country.
“We have found the gateways of Esbjerg in Denmark from Harwich and Amsterdam from Newcastle to be increasingly popular ways of reaching Germany by car,” a statement said.
The route will close in mid-November and will have no impact on the 2005 financial performance, DFDS said.
DFDS Tor Line’s freight route from Cuxhaven to Immingham will continue.
Report by Steve Jones
