Ferry companies 'offer greater flexibility than airlines'

Ferry companies offer greater flexibility than airlines with regards to check-in and boarding, according to a travel expert.

Simon Calder of the Independent compiled an 'A to Z of European ferries' which pointed out that, for airlines, "timing is everything".

Passengers who fail to meet the check-in deadline will miss their flight and probably lose the money they paid for their ticket.

In contrast, ferry companies generally prove much more lenient for passengers who miss their sailing, Mr Calder said, and also provide the flexibility for people to take earlier crossings if there is space available.

The travel expert pointed out that Norfolkline's ferries from Dover to Dunkerque and services operated by P&O Ferries and SeaFrance on the Dover to Calais ferry route normally have "plenty of capacity".

Mr Calder's list also included a reference to Ulysses, which is the world's largest and most reliable car ferry, according to its owner Irish Ferries.

The company uses the vessel on the Holyhead to Dublin ferry route, which is also served by Stena Line.

Posted by Andrew Smith