Press Release
DFDS launches new Dunkirk - Rosslare route
The departure of the Optima Seaways ferry from the port of Rosslare to Dunkirk on 2 January officially launched DFDS' new France-Ireland freight ferry route. The new route allows carriers to remain within the EU and avoid the customs formalities that now apply to shipments through Britain.
On Saturday 2 January, at 2pm Irish time, the Optima Seaways freight ferry left the Irish port of Rosslare for Dunkirk with over 120 trucks, drivers and unaccompanied trailers on board. This marked the official launch of the new DFDS route between Dunkirk in France and Rosslare in Ireland. The route offers exporting companies and hauliers a direct, paperless route between Ireland and other EU countries, reduced costs, less waiting time and the ability to avoid the customs procedures that now apply to transport via the UK landbridge. The route will be served by three efficient freight ferries capable of holding up to 120 trucks and trailers. Drivers will all be comfortably accommodated in their own cabins, in compliance with health measures, during the crossing. The two chartered vessels Visby and Kerry, together with DFDS' Optima Seaways, will sail on a fixed schedule of six weekly departures from each port. The sailing time will be just under 24 hours.
"As well as offering a vital alternative to the UK landbridge for Irish industry, Dunkirk represents a key strategic location, with easy access to the Paris region, close to the Franco-Belgian border and access to the Netherlands and Germany." says Aidan Coffey, route director.
"We are extremely pleased with the high level of interest we are receiving from customers on both sides of the route. This means that departures are already fully booked. I would also like to express a big thank you to the Port of Dunkirk and Rosslare Europort for their excellent cooperation and support in helping us prepare to be operational in a very short time." The first arrival took place in Dunkirk at 3pm on Sunday 3 January. Read more about the new route, timetable and bookings here.
For more information please contact Hopscotch Europe
Carla ÉCHÈNE +353 15556 97 26 cechene@hopscotch.eu
Charly CHARLES +33 9 70 46 47 60 ccharles@hopscotch.eu
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