Ferry may replace air travel this winter

Those planning to jet off somewhere sunny such as Barcelona in Spain this Christmas may have to seek alternative forms of travel such as taking the ferry.

It has been announced that the global airline industry will cut 60 million seats leading up to Christmas this year, equating to seven per cent of flights.

Industry consultant Chris Tarry told the Guardian that this may be the start of things to come as 2009 looks to be "even more difficult" than this year.

Steve Casley, chief operating officer of flight information company OAG, echoed Mr Tarry's sentiments, stating that "it looks quite possible that we may be facing a far more severe global downturns than we have experienced before".

By the end of 2008, routes will have been cut at 275 airports around the world, giving holidaymakers less options to choose from, Mr Casley suggested.

However, the tough conditions the airline industry is facing is not a reflection on the travel sector as a whole.

William Gibbons, director of the Passenger Shipping Association, recently told travelbite.co.uk that ferries are offering "marvellous" value for money these days.

Palma - Barcellona

1 x Foot Passenger(s) Return

Travelling on:

25/09/2012 - 25/09/2012

£60

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Ibiza - Barcellona

Car + 2 Return

Travelling on:

19/06/2012 - 28/06/2012

£204

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Palma Mallorca - Barcellona

Car + 4 Return

Travelling on:

12/06/2012 - 12/06/2012

£308

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* Prices are "from prices" and are indicative only

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