UK/FRANCE. DFDS-operated Newhaven-Dieppe passenger and freight ferry Seven Sisters has returned to sea following a major upgrade and refit, including an expanded duty-free store.
The refreshed store has increased in size from 48sqm to 138sq m. It offers local produce, plus a range of well-known brands in cosmetics, fragrances, confectionery, spirits and wines.
Pan-European ferry operator DFDS won the right to operate two Transmarche Ferries-owned ships (Seven Sisters and Cote d’Albatre) on the Newhaven-Dieppe route for a further five years in 2023.
DFDS is investing £7.3 million (€8.5 million) in refurbishing the vessels, a programme which will also see Cote d’Albatre return to sea with an expanded duty-free store in May. Both ships can carry up to 600 passengers.
The redesigned spaces onboard the ships include a full refit of all public spaces including layouts, wall and floor coverings, lighting, furniture and art.
In addition to the enhanced duty-free stores, the makeovers include a colourful children’s play area; a lounge with reclining seats; a refurbished suite of 43 cabins to suit all budgets; and sleeping pods for drivers and cyclists with a private lounge and shower suite.
DFDS Route Director Jean-Claude Charlo said: “This multi-million-pound investment responds to feedback from passengers on the route, modernising and refreshing onboard areas to provide a more spacious feel to inspire relaxation and enjoyment of the journey.
“It reflects our major commitment to developing and growing passenger volumes on the route over the new five-year term of our contract and our desire to continually innovate to meet our passengers’ shifting expectations.”
After a record year for passenger and vehicle volumes on the Newhaven-Dieppe route in 2023, DFDS said it anticipates growing the route by a further +4% in 2024 following its investment in the two ships. ✈
