The ferry industry is continuing its resurgence with latest statistics from Stena Line showing leisure travel growth of more than 15% year on year (based on car volumes) on the Irish Sea in November 2007. Ferry travel with Stena Line to both the Republic and Northern Ireland showed an increase, of 17% and 13% respectively, based on car numbers.

The increase equates to more than 5,000 additional cars being carried in the space of just one month across the company’s Irish Sea routes.

Each of Stena Line’s Irish Sea routes showed significant growth, with the largest single increase being in car carryings on the Holyhead to Dublin route, which reported an increase of 19%.

Eamonn Hewitt, Stena Line’s communications and PR manager for the Irish Sea, said, “These figures confirm Stena Line’s strong position as the leading provider of ferry travel on the Irish Sea.  The continued investment in our fleet of ships, service and facilities is clearly paying dividends and customers are voting with their feet and choosing to travel with Stena Line.

“With more investment and improvements planned for 2008 we expect next year to be even better, with more holidaymakers seeing the benefit of taking the ferry to Ireland. When you think about the hassle and hidden costs associated with flying these days, from airport delays to the so-called ‘low-cost’ airlines’ increased stealth fees of baggage costs, taxes and add-ons such as priority boarding and airport parking, it’s no wonder travel by sea is being seen as attractive again.”

Stena Line has also announced its fares for 2008 on both its Irish Sea and North Sea routes.  On the Irish Sea the lead-in motorist fare is £55 single for one car plus driver (based on bookings made online 28 days or more in advance, Stranraer - Belfast via ferry / fastcraft, off-peak).  Other Irish Sea lead-in fares for midweek travel are as follows:

On the North Sea in 2008 holidaymakers can enjoy a day crossing from just £49 one way and an overnight crossing now costs from just £69 one way with a single inside cabin - a £10 saving on 2007’s price.

Those travelling without a car can hop aboard from just £22 per person, whilst children (4 - 15years) are half that price from just £11 per child. The family pet can also come along on holiday as pets can travel from just £10. 
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