Brittany Ferries has announced the return of the Normandie Express on the company's Cherbourg and Caen ferry routes from Portsmouth.
The vessel returned to action on March 12th - earlier in the season than in previous years.
Travellers will benefit from more frequent departures from Portsmouth ferry port, which will cater for "strong demand" for people wanting to cross the Channel from England's south coast, Brittany Ferries said.
A higher frequency of services on the Normandie Express will also offset the reduction in sailings on the Poole to Cherbourg ferry route following the recent withdrawal of the Barfleur.
Brittany Ferries claimed the experience for passengers on the Portsmouth to Caen and Cherbourg ferry links is "far removed" from air travel.
"Boarding is quick and hassle-free and by taking your own car you can pack as much as you like," the company stated.
"Once on board, there's plenty of room to move around, as well as a bar, shop and cafes, all of which offer a taste of France before you get there."
People travelling to France also have the option of taking ferries to Le Havre from Portsmouth with
LD Lines or using the
Dover to Calais ferry route, which is served by
P&O Ferries and
Seafrance.
Posted by Andrew Smith