Bristol Channel gets new fast ferry service 1

The first fast ferry service from South Wales to South West England is due to commence operation early this year, sailing between Swansea and Ilfracombe. Travel times between the destinations should be cut from about 3 hours 20 minutes by road, to just 50 minutes.

New operator Severn Link has already purchased FastCat Shanklin from Wightlink for the route. The 360-passenger, 34-knot ‘FlyingCat’ catamaran is the first delivery in a two vessel deal reportedly worth a seven figure sum. The vessel is currently undergoing a full exterior repaint, rebranding and overhaul (pictured) at Portchester in Portsmouth.

Once the repaint is complete, Severn Link will move the as yet unnamed ferry to its new base in Swansea, where a full interior refit will commence prior to the vessel going into service in March. The entire refurbishment is expected to cost in the region of £100,000, with all suppliers for the interior refit being sourced wherever possible from Swansea and South Wales.

According to Severn Link’s chairman, Chris Marrow, “Market research has shown that there is a huge demand for this ferry route within South Wales and South West England. The Severn Link ferries will open up multiple opportunities – not just for ease of travel between the two regions for tourists, commuters and travellers, but also to help forge business links and bring the two neighbouring areas closer in many positive ways.”