Leading cross channel and Irish Sea ferry operator Norfolkline is now part of the DFDS group, which includes
DFDS Seaways.
The acquisition of
Norfolkline from AP Moller-Maersk was approved by European competition authorities last month and was finalised this week.
DFDS is now one of Europe's largest sea-based transport networks, with approximately 6,000 staff and a fleet of 63 ships.
The integration of the two companies is expected to provide a number of benefits for customers, including new passenger services.
John Crummie, UK managing director of DFDS Seaways, said: "This is an exciting time for DFDS Seaways as we work towards taking sea transport and travel to a new level by offering a far greater choice of travel options to passengers and an enhanced customer service experience."
He went on to say that the focus of the integration process will be providing a smooth and positive transition for customers.
DFDS Seaways' existing services include the Harwich to Esbjerg ferry route and daily
ferries from Newcastle to Amsterdam.
Norfolkline operates
ferries from Liverpool to Dublin and Belfast, as well as a service linking Rosyth to Zeebrugge.
Posted by Andrew Smith