Cat Returns to Dover

Monday 8th June 2009

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Following the loss of low cost channel crossing service Speed Ferries, LD lines, new arrivals to the Dover - France competitive crossing have introduced their new fast catermaran, The Norman Arrow.

The Norman Arrow will operate the Dover - Boulogne route along with the existing ferry.

The crossing time will be significantly reduced from 1hour 45 mins to around 1 hour.

The new fast ferry will increase frequency on the route from the current two operated by a conventional ferry to six return sailings a day.

The fast craft can carry 1,200 passengers, 417 cars or combination of up to 30 freight vehicles and 195 cars, and will operate at speeds of up to 40 knots.

Norman Arrow is claimed to be the largest ever fast ferry to operate on the cross channel routes between England and France.

It is the world's largest diesel-powered catamaran and the first-ever freight carrying, high speed vessel to operate across the Dover Straits.