Ferry travel on the upturn
Ferries operating from the UK saw a 400,000 increase in passenger journeys last year over 2005, stemming a long period of decline.
Almost 36 million passenger ferry journeys were taken between British ports and the continent, Ireland and British islands in 2006, according to the Passenger Shipping Association.
“This is a significant upturn for the ferry industry considering that there have been several consecutive years of falling numbers travelling by sea,” the PSA said.
Car journeys on short sea routes from Dover increased by almost four per cent with the three main operators Norfolk line, P&O and SeaFrance all showing increased carryings.
Ferry travellers particularly like the advantage of having no baggage restrictions especially as more airlines begin to charge for extra luggage, according to the association.
PSA director Bill Gibbons said: “Our customers are becoming savvier travellers and are enjoying the benefits of travelling by ferry such as modern cruise ships, travelling with their own car and generally having a less stressful journey with shorter check-in times and a seamless experience getting on and off board.
“Customer perceptions continue to change and we hope to see the trend continue in 2007.”
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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