Fast ferry for freight to launch

LD Lines will introduce the first freight-carrying, fast cross-Channel vessel

The largest high-speed cross-Channel ferry will begin sailings from Kent in May, a French company has announced.

The Incat 367ft (112m) catamaran will be introduced by LD Lines on the Dover to Boulogne route from 29 May.

The 11,000 tonne vessel is the world's largest diesel-powered catamaran and will be the first freight-carrying, fast ferry operating from Dover.

It will make up to four return sailings daily, cutting crossing times from one hour and 45 minutes to one hour.

Dramatic revolution

LD Lines said the vessel would offer "significantly greater sea-keeping qualities and passenger comfort than earlier generation fast ferries familiar to Dover Strait".

Christophe Santoni, LD Lines managing director said the new vessel would "dramatically revolutionise" cross-Channel ferry transport.

The service would create a new market for freight transport in the area and meet the demands of tourists, he added.

Port of Dover chief executive Bob Goldfield said he was delighted to see ferry operators investing in "new and exciting tonnage" operating from the Port of Dover.

The four daily sailings operated by the high-speed vessel will increase the frequency of LD Lines Dover to Boulogne service from two to six return sailings per day.

A conventional ferry will continue to operate on two remaining daily return sailings to Boulogne and one to Dieppe.

The vessel will be able to accommodate all tourist vehicles, such as cars, coaches, motor homes, caravans, motorcycles and foot passengers, as well as carrying freight.

Francis Leroy, president of the Chamber of Commerce of Boulogne, said the new service was a new step in the development of rapid links for the town's port.

Both LD Lines vessels will transfer to operate in Boulogne's new Hub Port Ro Ro Terminal following its completion in July 2009.