Irish Ferries reports 300% rise in demand following ash crisis

Irish Ferries has reported that passenger demand for its services increased by up to 300 per cent this week as a result of the closure of airspace in parts of Ireland and Scotland.

The continuing threat of volcanic ash from Iceland has led to major airports including Belfast International, Glasgow and Edinburgh being closed at various times over the past two days.

Irish Ferries said that it had seen a "significant" increase in car bookings for travel this week following news reports on the flight cancellations.

Declan Mescall, the company's head of passenger sales, pointed out that the operator had mounted a "huge rescue programme" two weeks ago and carried many stranded travellers across the Irish Sea as foot passengers.

"Now we're seeing people turn from flights to ferries in a more planned way - opting to book their car onto the ferry so they are in control of their travels," he added.

"Each time there's an announcement about the next airspace closure, we see demand increase as business travellers or those visiting family and friends change their plans."

The company operates ferries from Pembroke to Rosslare as well as crossings on the Holyhead to Dublin ferry route, which is also served by Stena Line.

Posted by Andrew Smith

Pembroke - Rosslare

1 x Foot Passenger(s) Return

Travelling on: 21/07/2012 - 23/07/2012

£54

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Pembroke - Rosslare

Car + 2 Return

Travelling on: 05/09/2012 - 18/09/2012

£200

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Pembroke - Rosslare

Car + 4 Return

Travelling on: 05/09/2012 - 18/09/2012

£314

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* Prices are "from prices" and are indicative only

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