The ferry company that runs Scotland’s only direct link to Europe has ventured into unchartered waters with its first TV advert to promote the service.

The 30 second-long commercial for DFDS Norfolkline, which promotes travel on the Scottish Viking ferry between Rosyth to Zeebrugge, is being screened on STV over the next four weeks.

The ad campaign aims to promote DFDS Norfolkline’s leisurely and relaxed overnight crossing to the continent over the autumn and winter periods.

Fares start from £80 per person for a single journey, based on two people sharing a cabin plus a car on travel between September and March.

The advert shows Rosyth as an accessible port for Scottish people to access, with a solo traveller, a family and a couple enjoying the benefit of avoiding the long car journey through England to reach Europe.

The striking image of the Forth Rail Bridge is also included in the footage, as the Scottish Viking sails underneath the iconic landmark before reaching Rosyth.

Chris Newey, General Manager for Passenger Services said: “We’re really excited to have our first TV advert that allows us to celebrates all that’s good about the Scottish Viking and the Rosyth-Zeebrugge service.

“We are looking for the commercial to help build the passenger traffic outside our high season by continuing to raise awareness of the benefits of the route to Scottish travellers.

“We know there’s a lot of affection towards the route so hopefully people will enjoy seeing it feature in a nationwide TV campaign – and book their next trip with us.”

The Scottish Viking sails three times a week from both ports, providing passengers with a reliable form of transport to Europe.

As the port of Zeebrugge is close to the city of Bruges and the European motorway network, onward travel can easily be made to France, Germany, Italy, Holland and beyond.

For more information on DFDS Norfokline and the latest offers for travel visit www.norfolkline.com.