Rosslare Europort user DFDS is to trail a new passenger ferry service on their existing freight route to Dunkirk, which began sailings early last year between Ireland and France. The inaugural passenger sailing is to take place this Friday, 5 August. 

For the first time, DFDS will offer tourists a direct link between South-East Ireland and Northern France (see Irish minister opens terminal). The new service will be focussed on car and motorhome traffic at launch, with limited capacity to complement our freight traffic.

Chris Parker, route director, said: "We launched a freight service between Rosslare and Dunkirk in January 2021, and it has proved extremely popular with customers looking to move goods between Ireland and continental Europe without the need to use the land-bridge via the UK. Adding passenger services to the route will further strengthen the service, and we expect strong demand from holidaymakers in Ireland and Northern Europe. Rosslare is at the heart of the 'sunny southeast' and a short drive from Dublin and Cork, making it a popular destination. Irish customers will benefit from a direct link into the heart of Europe."

Crossings on the route will take 24 hours, with the overnight sailings allowing customers to relax and recharge before driving on to their holiday destination. Against a looming summer of disruption at airports, the launch of the new route offers a stress-free alternative for holidaymakers looking to get away. No luggage restrictions apply when you take your car to Europe by ferry.

There will be up to five sailings per week from Rosslare to Dunkirk, and prices for a car and four passengers with a standard cabin onboard will start from €550, with all meals included.

As Afloat reported last week, DFDS has acquired an Irish haulier to compliment and expand the ferry's firm's logistic operations, though the acquisition is subject to regulatory competition clearance.