Encouraging signs for Fastnet Lines' Swansea - Cork route

Fastnet Line’s MV Julia set sail on its inaugural trip from Swansea to Cork in March, which commenced the company’s freight and car/passenger ferry service across the Irish Sea.  After completing its dry-docking process successfully and achieving relevant certification and testing of safety systems, the ship met the strict requirements demanded by the International Safety Management Code (ISM).

The 1,860 passenger, car and commercial freight-carrying vessel, which has captured the hearts and imagination of the Irish and Welsh nations, has received booking revenues in excess of €1 million.

Dubbed ‘The People’s Ship’, the MV Julia is the realisation of the dreams of several small business owners and interested individuals who formed The West Cork Tourism Co-Operative, acknowledging the wisdom of a sea link with the UK, and Wales in particular.

Having set about purchasing a ship to, in part, help revive the dwindling in-coming tourist numbers, and with the help and goodwill of several private investors, small companies and organisations (including some investors from outside Ireland), the consortium overcame several obstacles and the ship and its shipping line – Fastnet Line – became a reality.

Bookings are very encouraging, and the time and road trip savings of over 370 miles over alternative sea crossings to the area, along with the direct access to the M4 on arrival in Swansea, are being well received.

 The sailing schedule is:

The ship, which has a crossing time of just 10 hours, has capacity for up to 40 trucks, and accommodates accompanied and unaccompanied.

Freight drivers have the comfort and privacy of their own designated restaurant area and then relax in the one of the many comfortable inside cabins.  The onboard facilities include bars, shops, a cinema and casino.

For more information, call: 0844 576 7998 or e-mail: mail@fastnetfreight.co.uk

Published: 18/06/2010