New Sustainable Passenger Service due to Launch in the Channel
The SailLink catamaran service is specifically for foot passengers, cycle tourists and small groups
A new, greener, cross-channel ferry service is due to launch in September 2022, taking passengers across the Channel via fast commercial sailing catamarans.
SailLink is a new cross-channel ferry service specifically for foot passengers, cycle tourists and small groups looking for a unique travelling experience with sustainable credentials. It will use purpose-built sailing vessels between coastal destinations of Dover and Boulogne-Sur-Mer in France, with a crossing time of approximately 4 hours.
The SailLink vessels are fast commercial sailing catamarans and are fitted with electric propulsion for marina access and auxiliary power. Though, the company will work with the existing ferry operators to carry passengers to maintain their travel itineraries when weather conditions would make a specific crossing uncomfortable.
Founded by Andrew Simons, a boatbuilder, sailor and environmental scientist, SailLink was conceived as an adventurous and green option for travelling from England to France. He worked with Jim Duerden, a highly experienced sailor and RYA catamaran sailing instructor, to develop the founding concepts that underpin SailLink and determine the first route to launch from.
Andrew Simons said: “At SailLink, we are delighted to commence our first crossing between these two great ports, as brilliant destinations in their own right; in Dover, there is a wealth of history and activities, and in Boulogne-sur-Mer, a beautiful beach and old town as well as the largest sea-life aquarium in Europe. We’ve received enthusiastic support from both the Port of Dover and port authority at Boulogne-Sur-Mer and greatly look forward to the launch in September.”
In their first year, SailLink plan to schedule one return crossing per day. Border formalities will be conducted on departure and arrival by the mobile border agents – meaning passengers can go from the quaint harbour cafés at either marina and hop aboard the boat for sailing within 30 minutes.
Prices for the pilot phase are £85 for an adult one-way and £150 for a return - 10-18th September, with tickets available now on SailLink’s website.
The official launch of the daily service is expected in the spring of 2023.
