Stena Line: New segments of population travelling by ferry

Young, high-earning city dwellers are showing an increasing interest in ferry travel, according to Stena Line.

The operator reported that this new trend has led to an increase of 23 per cent in the number of people using its Harwich to Hook of Holland ferry route and combining the crossing with rail travel this year.

In contrast, the number of people catching flights from the seven BAA airports in the UK has decreased by 2.8 per cent this year compared to 2008.

Stena Line spokesman Lars Olsson said it is "interesting to note" that people showing interest in catching ferries from Harwich to Hook of Holland and continuing their trip by rail are "young, trendy city dwellers and ambitious, workaholic singles".

He added: "These groups have started considering alternatives to air travel because they're less cash-rich and even more time-poor than in the past, so the overcrowded chaos at airports and exorbitant departure taxes are deterrents."

In addition to its Hook of Holland ferry service, Stena Line serves the UK and Ireland market with its ferries to Dublin from Holyhead and its Stranraer to Belfast ferry route.

Written by Mark Robinson

Holyhead - Dun Laoghaire

1 x Foot Passenger(s) Return

Travelling on: 01/04/2012 - 02/04/2012

£32

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Hook of Holland - Harwich

Car + 2 Return

Travelling on: 15/08/2012 - 17/09/2012

£141

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Hook of Holland - Harwich

Car + 4 Return

Travelling on: 15/08/2012 - 16/08/2012

£196

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* Prices are "from prices" and are indicative only

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