DFDS Seaways has announced it has secured a second ship for its new Calais-Dover service from April 27th.

The cross channel operator is regarded as the World’s Leading Ferry Operator by the World Travel Awards.

“It has been our plan all along to operate the route with at least two ships in order to be able to deliver a satisfactory service and frequency to our many customers,” said Carsten Jensen, head of DFDS’ routes in the Channel.

“Following a successful start, we are therefore extremely pleased to announce that we have succeeded in securing the BARFLEUR as the second ship on the route, which is currently being serviced by the NORMAN SPIRIT as the only ship.

“With two ships, we will be able to double our frequency on the route from five daily departures from each port to ten daily departures.

“In total, there will be 22 daily departures out of Dover and an equal number out of Calais and Dunkerque combined.”

French crew

The vessel has been chartered from Brittany Ferries and will be renamed prior to entry into service.

She was built in 1992 and offers excellent facilities for 1,212 passengers, 550 cars and a freight capacity of 1,530 lane metres.

She will fly the French flag and be operated by a French crew.

This means that the total number of French employees will increase to about 300.

The new ship will be put into service on April 27th and is currently being prepared for the future task.

“We thank our loyal customers and our partners in France and the UK for the support.

“With this move we are showing our commitment to the new route, to providing our passengers and freight customers with an attractive service and an exciting and dynamic workplace for our staff,” added Jensen.

The route is operated in partnership between DFDS and LDA.