Category: Member news

Brittany Ferries and Portsmouth are together in electric dreams – cross-Channel ferry leaves UK for France charged with power from the quayside

As 1,100 holidaymakers settle in for the 08:00 departure to Caen this morning, Guillaume de Normandie will ease silently away from the quayside, engine- and emissions-free. It will follow two hours connected to Portsmouth International Port’s new shore power system, marking the first cross-Channel ferry to leave the UK powered by electricity fed from the quayside.

It’s a fitting send-off, on Brittany Ferries‘ busiest route, at the start of the school summer break. More than a thousand passengers will begin their holiday on board the greenest ship on the Channel, just as Brittany Ferries and Portsmouth International Port mark a milestone on their shared journey towards decarbonisation.

One of Brittany Ferries’ two new LNG-electric hybrids, Guillaume de Normandie arrived into Portsmouth from France at 06:00. It plugged-in straight away, recharging its onboard batteries before switching to electric power for manoeuvre out of Portsmouth Harbour and onto Normandy, where it will arrive at the eastern edge of Sword Beach, a newly designated UNESCO world heritage site.

Shore power has been in testing at Portsmouth International Port for the past two months. It is now fully operational, meaning Guillaume de Normandie and sister ship Saint-Malo – which serves the St Malo route – can recharge their batteries every time they’re alongside in the great waterfront city.

There’s no air quality or climate change emissions, when plugged-in. Nor is there any noise, for those living and working around the port. It also means the ships can manoeuvre in and out of Portsmouth Harbour completely emissions-free, switching to hybrid LNG-electric running only once clear of the port entrance.

“This is a huge milestone for our business, and one that we’ve reached thanks to a team effort by all partners involved,” says Christophe Mathieu, CEO of Brittany Ferries. “It means we can now realise the full potential of the greenest vessels in our fleet. We’re better neighbours to Portsmouth, and we’re leading the sector on sustainability.

“But this doesn’t come without a cost. We’re urging the new government to consider tax breaks to offset the additional expense of plugging in while alongside. Without that support, the lead taken by Portsmouth International Port and Brittany Ferries is unlikely to be followed by others in the drive to net zero.”

The cost of plugging-in is still a challenge for Brittany Ferries, the port and the wider shipping sector.  It costs more than running engines while alongside due to high electricity costs and connection charges. However, Brittany Ferries thanks Portsmouth International Port for many months of negotiation to reach a deal covering the next twelve months, helping offset some of that additional cost burden.

It’s electrifying – Portsmouth International Port’s shore power system goes live

(24 July 2026) In a huge forward step for the UK maritime industry, ferries and cruise ships are now plugging into Portsmouth International Port‘s shore power system, as it strives to become the country’s first zero-emissions port by 2050.

Brittany Ferries’ hybrid-electric ships, the St Malo and the Guillaume de Normandie – both part of a €550 million fleet renewal – were the first to charge up during the system’s final testing phase, marking a major milestone in the decarbonisation of the port, and of the country’s maritime industry.

Two cruise ships have also taken electricity while testing the system, with commissioning first taking place with AIDA’s AIDAsol, followed by Phoenix Risen’s Amera.

These are the first steps to the system realising its full potential, when three ships plug in simultaneously, which is expected to happen later this year.

Funded with £19.8 million from the Department for Transport and £4.6 million from Portsmouth City Council, it is the UK’s first multi-berth, multi-user, multi-frequency shore power system, that will allow up to three ships to plug in at the same time.

Any of the port’s customers’ ships can now plug into clean electricity, meaning they can turn off engines while alongside, helping to improve the city’s air quality. Those with batteries will also be able to enter and exit the harbour under electric power.

As well as improving air quality for Portsmouth residents, the system is projected to help avoid emissions of around 20,000 tonnes of CO2e from 2027, aiding in the goal to become the country’s first emissions-free port by 2050.

Mike Sellers, Portsmouth International Port director, said: “This is a huge moment not only for us, but also for the UK ports industry as a whole, as we are now the country’s first port to offer multi-berth, multi-user shore power.

“The clean electricity will have a big benefit to air quality in the city, and it also helps to future-proof Portsmouth port, aligning us with international moves towards electrification for all of our customers, meaning we can continue to be profitable and provide for essential services in the city.”

While electricity prices remain high, the port, the council and Brittany Ferries have worked hard together to strike a deal to ensure the company’s two shore-power-ready ferries can plug in.

Mike added: “There are still challenges we’re facing around the cost of electricity, and we’re continuing to lobby the government hard to ensure they address these and make electrification a more attractive business proposition for us and for ports across the country.”

Christophe Mathieu, chief executive at Brittany Ferries, said: “As we mark half a century of serving Portsmouth, it’s crucial that we look forward as well as back, and shore power does exactly that. This isn’t just leading-edge technology, it’s a concrete step in our decarbonisation journey and, perhaps most importantly, a commitment to being a good neighbour. The most immediate benefit is cleaner air for the people who live and work around the port. And for our customers too, it means greener travel.

“We’re grateful to everyone who’s worked so hard to make this a reality: the teams at Portsmouth International Port, Portsmouth City Council, the Sea Change partners, and the UK government. Portsmouth is a city that has always thrived on its sea links, and together, we’re making a difference that people who live in it can breathe.”

In addition to the funding for construction of the system, Portsmouth City Council also provided £3 million to secure the power that was needed from the grid.

Cllr Steve Pitt, leader of the council, said: “I want to congratulate everyone involved in this huge undertaking, which sets Portsmouth apart in the UK cruise and ferry market, cements our sustainability ambitions, and contributes to our ongoing commitment to the health of people across the city.

“There are always risks when being early adopters of new technology, and I want to thank our partners at Brittany Ferries for working closely with our team at the port to ensure we can plug in their fantastic hybrid ships to the benefit of all who live and work here, and their passengers.

“As the first mover in electrification, we have had a number of challenges to get to this point, but the team at the port and all of the partners have been absolutely determined to make this work, for the industry but primarily for the people of Portsmouth. Our priority with the shore power system has always been helping to improve air quality in the city, for those who live and work here.”

Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister Keir Mather said: “Backed by almost £20 million in Government funding, this is a major milestone in decarbonising UK shipping, placing Portsmouth firmly in the future as it celebrates 50 years in operation.

”Nationally, shipping is the backbone of the economy, and government is playing its part, investing £448m to drive innovation in clean fuels and technologies, creating skilled jobs, cutting emissions, and driving long-term growth.”

The shore power system, also known as the Sea Change project, is the result of the work of a number of partners, including Barter 4 Things, Brittany Ferries, MSE International, Swanbarton, and the University of Portsmouth. To find out more, see Sea Change – Portsmouth Port

Scillonian IV completes sea trials in Vietnam

(14 July 2026) Scillonian IV, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group’s new purpose-built passenger ferry, has completed sea trials in Vietnam, marking a significant milestone in the ship’s construction.

Sea trials are a critical stage in the build programme, during which the vessel’s performance, manoeuvrability, propulsion and onboard systems are rigorously tested at sea to ensure they meet design specifications and international standards.

Scillonian IV departed the shipyard in Ho Chi Minh City on Tuesday 14th July and made her way down the Nhà Bè river into the South China Sea in preparation for sea trials off the coast of Vung Tau. She spent the week conducting speed and operational trials as well as testing key pieces of onboard machinery such as deployment of anchors and safety boats.

Scillonian III Master Joe Whetton, Technical Superintendent Luke Parnell and Engineer Jonathan Jackman joined the project team in Vietnam to witness the trials, in collaboration with Piriou shipyard and the classification society, Lloyds Register. This also commences the start of the familiarisation process for Scillonian IV.

New vessels project manager Chris Lingham said: “Scillonian IV is found to be a comfortable and quiet vessel that rides the sea well. She is not only looking great but is exceeding expectations with her performance.”

Scillonian IV will now undergo final fit-out and certification before making her delivery voyage to the UK ahead of entry into service.

Stuart Reid, Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, said: “The commencement of sea trials represents an important step towards bringing Scillonian IV into service next year.

“Sea trials are a vital stage in the shipbuilding process, providing the opportunity to thoroughly test the vessel in real operating conditions before she moves closer to completion.

“We’re delighted to see the project reaching this crucial phase and look forward to sharing further updates as Scillonian IV continues her journey towards serving the Isles of Scilly.”

Once complete, Scillonian IV will carry up to 600 people, a 24% increase on current levels, whilst reducing journey times. It will feature roll and pitch reduction systems, enhancing passenger comfort, and is designed utilising modern propulsion technologies that improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

The Steamship Group’s £40m vessel replacement programme represents one of the most significant investments in the company’s history, reaffirming its commitment to supporting island communities through improved passenger and freight services.

Together with Menawethan, the Steamship Group’s new freight ship which officially entered service this week, the vessels represent a £40m investment in the future of the islands’ lifeline transport links, ensuring modern, resilient and fit-for-purpose freight and passenger services for the Isles of Scilly.

P&O Ferries enhances transport connections for foot passengers at Port of Dover with improved bus links

New bus timetable better aligns with busy ferry sailings, simplifying travel for foot passengers.

15 July 2026 – P&O Ferries, working with Stagecoach South East and the Port of Dover, has introduced an enhanced timetable for the number 66 bus service, better aligning it with the company’s busiest Dover–Calais foot passenger sailings to improve connections between Dover Priory station and the Eastern Docks, reduce waiting times and make journeys by public transport journeys easier.

As the only ferry operator carrying foot passengers on the Dover–Calais route, P&O Ferries worked with Stagecoach South East and the Port of Dover to identify opportunities to improve transport links for customers travelling without a car ahead of the busy summer season.

The revised timetable, which comes into effect on 26^th July 2026, provides a more seamless connection between Dover Priory station and the port, enabling passengers to complete their journeys by rail, bus and ferry with shorter waiting times. By making public transport more convenient, the improved connections encourage greater use of rail and bus services, supporting more sustainable end-to-end journeys.

P&O Ferries will also offer integrated ticketing through its website, enabling customers to purchase ferry and bus tickets in a single transaction. Passengers can also purchase their bus tickets directly through the Stagecoach app or from the driver when boarding, giving customers greater flexibility when planning their journey to and from the Port of Dover. P&O Ferries foot passenger fares between Dover and Calais start from £35.

Louisa Bell, Chief Commercial Officer, Passenger at P&O Ferries, said: “As the only ferry operator carrying foot passengers between Dover and Calais, we know how important it is that every part of the journey is as straightforward as possible for all customers. By working alongside Stagecoach and Dover Harbour Board to better connect ferry, rail and bus services, we are making it easier for passengers to travel by public transport, improving convenience while also supporting more sustainable travel.”

Joel Mitchell, Managing Director at Stagecoach South East, said: “We’re pleased to have improved the number 66 bus service to provide better connections for passengers travelling between Dover Priory station and the Port of Dover. Following feedback and opportunities to improve the route, we have invested in changes to the timetable to better align services with ferry departures and arrivals, helping make public transport a more convenient option for foot passengers. Customers can continue to buy their tickets on board the bus or through the Stagecoach app, making it easier to plan and complete their journey.”

Doug Bannister, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, said: “Strong transport connections are essential to delivering a smooth and efficient journey for our customers. This partnership with P&O Ferries and Stagecoach South East is a great example of organisations working together to improve connectivity, making it easier for foot passengers to travel through the Port of Dover by rail, bus and ferry. By enhancing these connections, we’re improving the customer experience while supporting more sustainable travel through Britain’s busiest port.”

LEGO® Sets Sail with launch of Irish Ferries LEGO® POP-UP shop for Summer

The perfect day out: Save on LEGO® shopping and great value day trip fares

1st July 2026: Irish Ferries is bringing a brand-new family attraction to sea this summer with the launch of a LEGO® POP-UP shop on the James Joyce on the Dublin-Holyhead route.  

Opening today, July 1st, the Irish Ferries LEGO® POP-UP shop offers great savings versus high street prices on a wide range of LEGO® products while inspiring creativity for passengers of all ages.

More than just an onboard store, the popup is designed to encourage family time, with screen-free moments and hands-on play. Featuring a range of eye-catching LEGO® displays as well as a soft play area, the space invites passengers of all ages to immerse themselves in the world of LEGO® while at sea.

With more than 200 products from which to choose, popular LEGO® brands onboard include Speed Champions, Technic, Botanicals, Disney Friends, Duplo, Star Wars and World Cup 2026, with savings of up to €84 available across the range (savings based on LEGO Ferrari Daytona).  

A unique day out

Irish Ferries has announced new great value day-return fares for people to enjoy the full ferry experience, access to the new LEGO® POP-UP shop and a unique day out.

A perfect new way to occupy kids of all ages during the summer holidays, great value day-return fares from Holyhead are available for travel up to 22 July with prices from:

• £10 per adult foot passenger and £5 per child (under 15 yrs), Monday to Wednesday
• £12 per adult foot passenger and £6 per child from Thursday to Sunday
• Car +1 adult day return trip from £215 – and Kids go Free (Tuesday to Thursday – available exclusively on the Irish Ferries mobile app)

Speaking about the new LEGO® pop-up,Irish Ferries’Consumer Marketing & Sales Director, Nora Costello said: “At Irish Ferries, we’re always looking for new ways to enhance the onboard experience and create memorable journeys for our passengers. The launch of our LEGO® POPUP shop on the James Joyce is a fantastic addition to all the facilities available on the James Joyce, giving children and LEGO® fans of all ages the opportunity to explore the world of LEGO® in an unexpected setting.

“With summer holidays, many of our passengers are looking for ideas for a great day out. Our new day-return fares for passengers combine a James Joyce sailing, a trip to the LEGO® POPUP shop and the opportunity to visit Wales. As days go, it really doesn’t get any better than that.”

Passengers travelling onboard the James Joyce can enjoy a wide range of premium onboard facilities including restaurants, cafés, duty-free shopping, a children’s play area, Club Class lounge, dedicated pet-friendly lounge with external deck access and en-suite cabin accommodation.

Passengers with the new Irish Ferries app can also avail of further savings, with €10 off when you spend €50 on LEGO®products by 2nd August. T&Cs apply.

Book using the new Irish Ferries app available on Apple Store (iOS download link) and Google Play (Android link) for exclusive access to the Motorist 1 day return fare and the special €10 off €50 in the LEGO®POP-UP onboard shop.

P&O Ferries to launch Sleep Lounge on Hull-Rotterdam route this July

New onboard option will give passengers more ways to travel overnight, with 36 Sleep Recliner seats planned for the route

10 June 2026 – P&O Ferries announces the launch of a new Sleep Lounge on its North Sea route between Hull and Rotterdam, offering passengers more choice when planning their overnight journey.

Available on crossings from 13^th July, the Sleep Lounge will feature 36 Sleep Recliner seats in a dedicated lounge area, designed to give passengers a place to rest and sleep during overnight crossings. Sleep Lounge customers will be offered a complimentary blanket to use during the journey, with USB charging points available at the seats and lockers provided for larger items.

Passengers using the Sleep Lounge can continue to enjoy the full onboard experience, including restaurants and bars, the coffee shop, entertainment and World Duty Free shopping. The new product will sit alongside existing cabin options, giving customers more flexibility when choosing how they travel.

Louisa Bell, Chief Commercial Officer, Passenger at P&O Ferries, said: “Every journey is different, and we want customers to have the choice of options that work best for them. Whether they are travelling with friends, heading away for a short break or starting a longer trip into Europe, the Sleep Lounge is another way to make the crossing while experiencing the atmosphere and facilities that come with travelling by ferry.”

Fares for foot passengers start from £47 per person one way for off-peak travel between October and December. Customers travelling by car can book from £121 for one car, one passenger and one Sleep Recliner seat during selected periods.

The launch reflects P&O Ferries’ continued focus on expanding the range of experiences it offers passengers on the North Sea route between Hull and Rotterdam.

A toast to a Cornish icon – Scillonian Salute marks ferry’s final chapter

(1 May 2026) Two historic Cornish businesses have joined forces to raise a glass in honour of Scillonian III in the beloved ship’s final season.

The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group and St Austell Brewery have created Scillonian Salute, a limited-edition commemorative beer that captures the spirit of the crossing and the community is has served for almost five decades.

Scillonian III provides a vital passenger link between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly, becoming a much-loved and instantly recognisable part of island life for residents, businesses and visitors alike.

The 2026 season, which runs until November, is her final year in service before she is replaced by the state-of-the-art Scillonian IV, which is currently being built and is scheduled to enter service in March 2027.

Scillonian Salute is a commemorative ale (3.4% ABV) rich in malt, toffee and biscuit flavours and will be available on cask from May 1^st – just in time for gig weekend – in just seven St Austell Brewery pubs that are closely linked with the location of the crossing.

On St Mary’s, these are The Atlantic and the Bishop and Wolf; on the mainland they are the Ship Inn, Mousehole; Harbour Inn, Porthleven; The Dolphin, Penzance; the Logan Rock Inn, Penzance and Fisherman’s Arms, Newlyn.

Stuart Reid, Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, said: “This collaboration feels a fitting way to celebrate Scillonian III. Both companies are deeply woven into Cornwall’s cultural and economic fabric, and both understand the emotional pull of Scillonian III. We are delighted to have partnered with St Austell Brewery on this project.”

This year, St Austell Brewery marks 175 years since Walter Hicks set up the business in Cornwall back in 1851 – a milestone few independent breweries can claim. Pint by pint, the proudly family-owned business has grown into one of the South West’s most recognisable names in brewing, hospitality and drinks wholesale, with 164 pubs spanning the region.

Its iconic beers – Tribute, Proper Job and korev among them – are poured in pubs and available in supermarkets nationwide, including on the Isles of Scilly in its managed pub The Atlantic and its tenanted pub the Bishop and Wolf.

Although a century and three‑quarters on, St Austell Brewery’s spirit feels much the same – proudly independent and brewing great experiences for the generations to come.

Laura Plum, Marketing and Communications Director, St Austell Brewery said: “Scillonian III has served as one of the most important lifelines for locals and tourists in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly – a vessel that hasn’t just carried passengers but has served as a vital link that our communities rely on. We’re proud to partner in celebrating her final year of service. As a fellow business rooted in the South West, this collaboration allows us to raise a glass to her legacy, and to the islands and communities she has connected for generations.”

For the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group this partnership is about more than marking an ending, it’s about celebrating decades of memories made at sea. Families returning year after year, day-trippers braving the swell, islands relying on the service – Scillonian III has carried them all.

Scillonian Salute is a chance for people to quite literally drink in the history, swapping stories of past crossings while looking ahead to what comes next. It’s a farewell, a thank you and a toast to all those who have stood on deck, watching the islands come into view.

Photo caption: Scillonian III Master Dave Redgrave pulls the first pint of Scillonian Salute at The Atlantic Inn on St Mary’s.

Wightlink marks centenary of key Island ferry route

(20 March 2026) Wightlink has marked a major milestone today (Friday 20 March) as the Portsmouth to Fishbourne ferry route celebrates 100 years of service across the Solent.

To mark the centenary, a special sailing brought together past and present crew, local dignitaries and some long-standing customers and business partners on a special round trip on the route. Guests boarded Wightlink’s newest vessel, Victoria of Wight, and spent the afternoon speaking with staff and exploring the history of the route through a specially created onboard timeline.

First introduced in March 1926 by the Southern Railway Company, the crossing has grown from a small-scale operation into the Island’s busiest link with the mainland.

In its early days, passengers and goods were transported on wooden vessels towed by a tug. Demand quickly increased and, by 1927, a purpose-built car ferry was in operation, capable of carrying 16 vehicles and around 100 passengers – a significant development at the time.

The route proved particularly important during the Second World War, maintaining a vital connection between Portsmouth and the Island despite air raids and restrictions, and helping to move workers, supplies and essential goods.

Operated by Wightlink since 1990, the service remains the company’s busiest route, with regular sailings taking around 45 minutes and carrying thousands of passengers and vehicles each day.

Wightlink Chief Executive Officer Katy Taylor said: “This is an incredibly important milestone for us and for the Isle of Wight. For 100 years, this route has connected people, supported businesses and been part of everyday life here.

“We are very grateful to all those who have worked on the route over the past century and are very proud to continue serving the Island today. We would also like to thank our customers, past and present, whose continued support has been at the heart of the route’s success. It was wonderful to celebrate this historic milestone with guests today and we very much look forward to the next 100 years of service.”

Speaking at the event, Captain Sam Mitchell said: ” This centenary gives us a moment to honour the history of this route and to recognise the people who built the Portsmouth to Fishbourne service and those who continue to uphold its standards every day.

“It has been a privilege for me to represent them today.”

Wightlink has continued to invest in more modern vessels and infrastructure to meet changing demands. This includes the introduction of Victoria of Wight in 2018, England’s first hybrid-powered ferry, designed to reduce emissions while improving the passenger experience. The Fishbourne and Gunwharf terminals have also been upgraded to increase efficiency and provide more facilities for customers. As the route reaches its centenary, it remains a vital link across the Solent, keeping Islanders connected. To find out more about 100 years of the Portsmouth–Fishbourne route, please visit:
https://www.wightlink.co.uk/about-wightlink/portsmouth-fishbourne-100-anniversary