Official: Ramsgate WILL get a new, high-speed ferry service
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by Martin Jefferies
A new high speed ferry service linking Ramsgate to the French
port of Boulogne will start later this year, it has been
confirmed.
Euroferries' long awaited arrival was confirmed at a press
conference at the Port of Ramsgate this afternoon.
A new catamaran, Bonanza Express, is expected to make its
first cross channel sailing in September. It will make five daily
trips to and from the continent, carrying a combination of
cars, foot passengers, coaches and a limited number of frieght
vehicles and caravans.
A second vessel is also expected to join the service, greatly
increasing passenger capacity.
Crossings on board Bonanza Express will take just 75 minutes and
passengers will be treated to an extensive 'tax paid' shopping
area, restaurants and a first class seating area.
Euroferries will base their Ramsgate operations inside an
existing terminal at the port. New security devices will be
installed, a shop opened and several cosmetic improvements
made.
Thanet council officials, who attended today's announcement
alongside Euroferries bosses, said they were "thrilled" by the
agreement.
Cllr Roger Latchford, deputy leader of the authority, said: "The
quick crossing times and easy access into both ports will make this
an attractive alternative route into France and will really prove
an invaluable part of the wider regeneration of the district."
Per Staehr, chairman of Euroferries, said his company planned to
build a "long term relationship with the local community".
Dr Stephen Ladyman, the MP for South Thanet, added:
"Euroferries' arrival could bring many jobs and plenty of tourism
and provide a boost to the local economy.
"It's always been my wish that we could secure a new service
from Ramsgate that would guarantee the future of the port.
"The two ferry services that we now have, coupled with the
offshore wind farm projects, should ensure this facility soon
starts making money for local people."
TransEuropa Ferries, previously the port's only ferry operator,
already runs several daily trips between Ramsgate and Ostend.
Friday, July 31 2009
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