Live Exports Trade by Brittany Ferries to Cease from September

6th August 2026

Jehan Ashmore

Livestock: Brittany Ferries had ramped up its sailings from Rosslare to Cherbourg after the axing of the Ireland-France service by Stena Line, which took place almost a year ago. Above the French firm’s freight-oriented ferry, Cotentin, which Afloat adds, is to be sold and directly replaced by the return of another ropax, Commodore Clipper in the autumn, joining E-Flexer tonnage Credit: Rosslare Europort

The calf trade for 2027 has been impacted even before the export of a single calf, following Brittany Ferries' announcement that the company will cease next month transporting live animals from Rosslare Europort.

Brittany Ferries, which was viewed by calf shippers, as a price-competitive alternative to its rival, Irish Ferries (but from Dublin Port). The Breton-based company had come under sustained pressure from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) since 2025, when it resumed live exports.

Its Rosslare-Cherbourg route linking Wexford and Normandy had been a key transit route for Irish calves headed to the continental mainland for rearing.

A spokesperson for Brittany Ferries confirmed to the Irish Farmers Journal (more here) that the company has made the decision to halt live exports. This is to include calves, and no further comment by the operator would be made on the move.

Published in Brittany Ferries

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About The Author

Jehan Ashmore

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Jehan Ashmore is a marine correspondent, researcher and photographer, specialising in Irish ports, shipping and the ferry sector serving the UK and directly to mainland Europe. Jehan also occasionally writes a column, 'Maritime' Dalkey for the (Dalkey Community Council Newsletter) in addition to contributing to UK marine periodicals.

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