The launch of the new seacat service between Dover and Boulogne has been put back for a week because of a delay in certification.

The wave-piercing catamaran is to operate under the British flag, but not all the documentation has been completed.

The new service, run by LD Lines, was due to have started this Saturday, but it has now been put back for a week.

The Norman Arrow will be the largest fast craft ever to operate on the Channel.

It arrived at Dover on Tuesday, May 26 at the end of its epic 11,726-mile journey from the other side of the world.

After spending several days in Boulogne undergoing berthing trials, the craft returned to Dover for final preparations for the start of the new service.

The 112-metre catamaran was built in Hobart, Tasmania, and sailed via the Seychelles, Suez Canal and Malta.

Norman Arrow can carry up to 1,200 passengers, 417 cars or combination of up to 30 freight vehicles and 195 cars. Crossing time will be one hour.