P&O Irish Sea’s Larne-Cairnryan route has received another major boost with the announcement that a second new £35million fast conventional ferry is to join the fleet in 2002.
The service, which provides the shortest and fastest Irish Sea crossings, has already welcomed two vessels this year – the newly built European Causeway which is proving very popular and the SuperStar Express which has a one-hour crossing time. In addition, a new terminal, which was part of a £4.5million development at the Port of Cairnryan, became operational last February. Graeme Dunlop, Chairman of P&O Ferries, said: “Larne-Cairnryan is one of P&O’s key Irish Sea routes. We have already invested more than £50million in this route over the past 18 months and are demonstrating our commitment by ordering another fast conventional ferry to replace older tonnage. This will provide a tremendous boost to both tourist and commercial traffic.” The ship, which has been ordered from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries of Japan, will be a sister vessel to the recently introduced European Causeway making the crossing in 105minutes and matching her capacity of up to 410 passengers, 375 cars and/or 107 commercial vehicles. With twin-deck drive through bow and stern loading, the vessel will handle a mix of passenger and freight traffic. more… John Kearsley, Managing Director, P&O Irish Sea, added: “The commissioning of this additional fast conventional ferry is an indication of our confidence in the Larne-Cairnryan route. We continually strive to anticipate, meet and indeed exceed our customers needs and expectations. With the new ship operating alongside European Causeway, we will provide a seamless service to our customers and strengthen our position as the leading operator on the Irish Sea.” Facilities onboard the new ship will be similar to European Causeway and include the popular Fables Restaurant and Poets Bar as well as a video lounge, quiet lounge, children’s video and play area, games area and shop. A customised area for commercial drivers will include separate restaurant, lounge and shower facilities. P&O Irish Sea has another new ship coming into service on the Dublin-Liverpool route in January 2001. European Ambassador, with the capacity for up to 410 passengers, will be capable of service speeds of 23 knots which will significantly reduce the current crossing times. This new ship brings the company’s investment in its Irish Sea operations to more than £120million over the past two years.
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Notes to Editors: For further information, contact Sharon Toner on 028 2887 2182 or 07799 718987