Brittany Ferries selects Poole for New Freighter

Brittany Ferries has selected Poole as the UK port out of which it will operate its new freighter soon to be the largest, fastest freight ship on the Channel. Named "Cotentin", this £50 million vessel, was launched at the Aker shipyard in Helsinki and is now being fitted out in readiness for being introduced into service in October this year.

David Longden, Managing Director of Brittany Ferries commented: "Prior to making the decision to operate our new freight ship from Poole to France and Spain we have considered a number of options, including other ports such as Portsmouth. The agreement we have reached with the Poole Harbour Commissioners is a good one for both parties and we are delighted to be able to grow our presence there."

Jim Stewart, Chief Executive of Poole Harbour Commissioners, added: "We are delighted with Brittany Ferries' decision to operate their new freight ferry, the "Cotentin", from Poole, which demonstrates their confidence in the levels of service provided by the Port of Poole. Poole Harbour Commissioners have built up a close working relationship with Brittany Ferries over the years, and we believe that this decision will substantially increase the volume of freight handled by the port and will strengthen future ties between the two organisations."

Note to Editors:

• Cotentin will operate between Poole and Cherbourg during the week and between Poole and Santander in northern Spain every weekend.
• Cotentin will be 165 metres long and 26.8 metres wide. With a cruising speed of 23 knots, she will have 120 cabins and be able to accommodate 120 freight units. This is 2 ½ times the capacity of the current freighter used out of Poole.
• There are currently two ships on order with the Aker shipyard. The other is for a passenger ship, Armorique, due for delivery at the end of 2008 and which will be identical to Cotentin from the keel to deck five.
• The combined investment in these two ships totals £135 million

-Ends-

For further press information and pictures contact:
Stephen Tuckwell at the Brittany Ferries Press Office
Tel: 08709 010 215
Email: pressoffice@brittanyferries.com

Released 20 July 2007