New ferry operator arrives at Portsmouth
20/10/06
Port mangers at Portsmouth Continental Ferry Port today (20 October 2006) confirmed the arrival of yet another new ferry service at the Port. Celtic Link Ferries will commence operations between Portsmouth and Cherbourg on 15 January 2007, providing a daily, year-round service to the popular Normandy port.
“This is the third new operator to commence services from Portsmouth in the past two years,” says port manager Martin Putman. “Not only does it extend our service to Cherbourg from the port, which has recently only been available during the high season, but it also is a ringing endorsement for the port, its location on the UK’s motorway network and its choice of destination ports. We’re delighted to welcome Celtic Ferries to Portsmouth and look forward to future growth and prosperity.”
Paul Tyrrell, managing director of Celtic Link Ferries Limited said: “We’re very proud and excited about this new route as it provides us with a natural hub from Cherbourg to both the UK and Ireland.”
Commenting on the announcement MP for Portsmouth and Councillor for regeneration in the City of Portsmouth, Mike Hancock, thanked the team at the port for their efforts in securing this new trade that will contribute to the City’s economy. He said that it also reflected the continued requirement and popularity of Western Channel services among ferry operators and the freight industry.
The Vessel, to be named the "CELTIC MIST", has a Gross Tonnage of 23160, an Overall Length of 190,94m, and a Beam of 26,01m. The 2020 lane meters give a capacity for 120 articulated units. The vessel has accommodation for 190 persons, with the availability of 50 cabins all with private en suite facilities (7 cabins of 4 beds each plus 43 cabins of 2 beds each – total 114 beds). Hotel Facilities will include a 160 seat Lounge and Bar, a 90 seat Self Service Restaurant, and a quiet lounge with reclining seats.
The voyage time will be 6 hours. The late evening departure from Cherbourg, coupled with an early morning arrival in Portsmouth will provide the ideal timing for hauliers needing a fast transit, whilst allowing drivers a welcome and comfortable break. The 1430hrs departure time from Portsmouth will allow hauliers to collect from UK customers and be in Cherbourg the same day.
Sunday to Friday: Depart Portsmouth: 1430hrs, Arrive Cherbourg: 2130hrs
Saturday: Depart Portsmouth: 0930hrs, Arrive Cherbourg: 1530hrs
Daily: Depart Cherbourg: 2330hrs, Arrive Cherbourg: 0530hrs.
This New Service, in conjunction with Celtic Link’s other services to and from Ireland, will appeal primarily to the driver accompanied and drop trailer market.
