September 14, 2001 For the first time since 1998, a passenger service between Newhaven and Dieppe will operate year-round throughout the winter period 2001/2002, maintaining important tourist and economic links between the two towns and regions. With Hoverspeed as the general sales agency, the conventional ferry Sardinia Vera, will continue to provide a passenger link on the route, following Hoverspeed's high speed Seacat service ceasing for winter refit. The high speed car ferry operator will resume its seasonal service from April 2002. Hoverspeed restored the Newhaven - Dieppe service in April 1999 and has firmly re-established the route for a dedicated market of cross channel travellers. This is the third consecutive season the company has operated the high speed service which, with a crossing time of just 2 hours, provides a fast, popular direct link to the Normandy region. From 1 October, the conventional ferry will provide up to two return weekday sailings daily at 0900 and 2100 from Newhaven and 0400 and 1600 from Dieppe. The weekend sailing schedule will provide good opportunities for the popular day trips or overnight stays with a Saturday 0900 departure from Newhaven, returning 2000 from Dieppe. Sunday services will be 0800 and 2000 from Newhaven and 1600 from Dieppe. Crossing time by conventional ferry is 4 hours. Day trip or 24 hour return fares, based on a car and up to 5 passengers, will be £45 and £12 for foot passengers (£6 child). Three day return fare for a car and up to 5 passengers is £115 and £176 for a 5 day return. All fares are valid from 1 October 2001 to 23 March 2002. Reservations for the Newhaven - Dieppe conventional ferry service can be made through Hoverspeed's main Call Centre on 08705 240241 or online via www.hoverspeed.comPress Release Media contact: Nick Stevens, Public Relations Manager Telephone: (01304) 865170 |