Stena Line sets sail for new french connection

NI holidaymakers can now look forward to a direct ferry service to the Continent with Stena Line as the leading ferry company’s new Rosslare – Cherbourg route sets sail today (1^st April) for the first time.

The all year round service, recently acquired from Celtic Link, will provide three weekly sailings from both Rosslare and Cherbourg accommodating up to 1,000 passengers and 200 cars per sailing.

Orla Noonan, Stena Line’s Head of Travel (Irish Sea) commented: “Extending our route network to include the Rosslare-Cherbourg service is a very significant milestone for Stena Line.  France and its surrounding European neighbours are hugely popular destinations for Irish holiday makers and we’re delighted to now be able to offer a direct service with the fastest and most frequent sailings.

“With fares starting from an incredible €89 single for a car and driver there is lots to do onboard to ensure an enjoyable travel experience including entertainment, the latest blockbuster movies, restaurant and cabins to relax and unwind in. What’s more, pets can travel for free so the whole family can enjoy a holiday together with Stena Line.”

Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, said: “Congratulations to Stena Line on its acquisition.  As an island, the importance of convenient, direct access cannot be overstated.  We already work closely with Stena Line and we look forward to co-operating with them to maximise the promotion of their new service from France.  2013 was a record year for French visitors to Ireland and Tourism Ireland will be rolling out an extensive programme of promotional activity throughout 2014 to keep the momentum going and build on that growth.”

Stena Line will operate the MV Stena Horizon (formerly the MV Celtic Horizon) providing three weekly sailings from Rosslare at 21.30 on Tuesday and Thursday with a Saturday sailing at 16.00.  From Cherbourg the schedule is 21.00 on Wednesday and Friday with a Sunday sailing at 16.00 with a journey time of approx 17 hrs.

For full booking details visit www.stenaline.ie, call 00353 1 204 7777 or visit your local travel agent.

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NOTE TO EDITOR: For further information please contact Lawrence Duffy of Duffy Rafferty Communications on Belfast + 44 (0) 28 9073 0880 or lawrence@duffyrafferty.com