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DFDS Boosts Capacity on Rosslare-Dunkirk Route with New Vessel

22nd September 2025
Victoria Seaways ferry
Victoria Seaways will increase passenger and freight capacity on the Rosslare-Dunkirk route from 26 September.

DFDS has announced a significant capacity increase on its Rosslare-Dunkirk route. From 26 September, the new vessel, Victoria Seaways, will replace Optima Seaways.

This change doubles cabin capacity and expands freight lane metres by 10%. The move comes in response to growing demand from freight and tourist passengers.

Since its inception in 2021, the Rosslare-Dunkirk service has become a key connection between Ireland and continental Europe. It provides freight hauliers with a reliable option and offers Irish travellers direct access to Northeast France.

Glenn Carr, Director of Commercial Business Units with Iarnród Éireann, stated, “This boost in capacity on the Rosslare – Dunkirk route demonstrates the latent demand from both business and leisure travellers.”

Victoria Seaways features upgraded amenities and more space for passengers and freight customers. It aims to enhance the experience for families and leisure travellers alike.

To celebrate the expansion, DFDS is offering a 15% early booking discount from 1 October to 2 March. Full details are available on their website.

Published in Rosslare Europort
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About Rosslare Europort

2021 sees Rosslare Europort hitting a new record with a total of 36 shipping services a week operating from the port making it one of the premier Irish ports serving the European Continent. Rosslare Europort is a gateway to Europe for the freight and tourist industries. It is strategically located on the sunny south-east coast of Ireland.

Rosslare is within a 90-minute driving radius of major Irish cities; Dublin, Cork and Limerick. Rosslare Europort is a RoRo, RoPax, offshore and bulk port with three RoRo berths with a two-tier linkspan, we also have a dedicated offshore bulk berth.

Exports in Rosslare Europort comprise mainly of fresh products, food, pharmaceuticals, steel, timber and building supplies. While imports are largely in the form of consumer goods such as clothes, furniture, food, trade vehicles, and electronics.

The entire Europort is bar-swept to 7.2 meters, allowing unrestricted access to vessels with draughts up to 6.5 metres. Rosslare Europort offers a comprehensive service including mooring, stevedoring and passenger-car check-in for RoRo shipping lines. It also provides facilities for offshore, dry bulk and general cargo.

The port currently has twice-daily round services to the UK and direct services to the continent each day. Rosslare Europort has a fleet of Tugmasters service, fork-lift trucks, tractors and other handling equipment to cater for non-standard RoRo freight.