A new ferry service between Cork and Boulogne-sur-Mer has launched, marking the return of international passenger services to the French port after 15 years. Operated by Hibernia Line, this overnight route is expected to enhance tourism and trade between Ireland and France, providing a vital alternative for travellers looking to bypass the UK.
The service will operate six times a day from Monday to Saturday, with journeys taking approximately 21 to 24 hours. This development comes at a time when many companies are seeking to avoid the complexities of transporting goods through the UK post-Brexit, making the ferry route increasingly appealing.
The vessels, St Patrick and Akka, can carry up to 600 passengers and 130 freight units, accommodating both vehicles and foot passengers starting from July. This new link not only revives Boulogne’s international connections but also reflects a growing trend of direct routes between France and Ireland.
As travel dynamics shift, non-EU passengers should note the Entry/Exit System requirements upon arrival in Boulogne, as Ireland is not part of the Schengen area. This ferry service could reshape travel habits, offering a more straightforward route to continental Europe for many.
Source: Euronews
