Member Article

DFDS Seaways witnesses record growth

Newcastle-based DFDS Seaways are celebrating after witnessing record growth for the third consecutive year in a row, as more people shun the skies for ferry holidays.

In 2011 more than 560,000 passengers travelled on the cruise ferry operators Newcastle to Amsterdam route, an increase of more than 7,500 in 2010. There was also a 4.8% increase in holidaymakers travelling with a vehicle, totalling 99,000.

John Crummie, passenger director for DFDS Seaways commented: “We’re tremendously please with the results, especially in the current economic climate.

“It shows that we are tuned in to what people want, and we are determined to ensure that visitors from outside of the UK are aware of the unique tourist attractions which are available in the North East.”

DFDS Seaways have now formed a four year strategic partnership with Visit Britain, to make sure that there is a route for inbound tourism to the region.

“The route will also benefit from the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games, especially if customers buy into activity holidays in the North East.”

Passengers on the Newcastle to Amsterdam route freqiently travel on to Holland, Germany and France, as well as using the service to take a short break on a budget. This has ensured that DFDS Seaway’s mini cruises to Amsterdam and other European cities have remained a popular value for money option.

John Crummie continues: “The value and convenience that the route offers means that bookings have been remarkably resilient for 2011 as consumers are increasingly looking to get more for their money.

“Increasingly passengers are realising that motoring holidays can offer great convenience and comfort, ad we are hoping that even more holiday makers will take up the great offers in 2012.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .