Tag

Hibernia Line

May 08
Love3

Hibernia Line Opens Bookings For New Cork–Boulogne Ferry Route

By 2026 Newsletter week 19

It is now official: Hibernia Line has opened bookings for its new year-round ferry service between Ringaskiddy, Cork, and Boulogne-sur-Mer.

The route will start in mid-June 2026, with six sailings per week in each direction.

Two vessels, ST PATRICK (SUPERFAST IX) and AKKA, will operate the service.

Key points:

  • Evening departures from both ports.
  • Cork departures at 21:00.
  • Boulogne-sur-Mer departures at 22:00 CET.
  • Passenger arrival the following evening.
  • Expected annual passenger volume: more than 250,000.
  • Up to 250 immediate jobs in Ireland and France.
  • Around 200 crew positions.
  • ST PATRICK offers 2,200 lane metres of freight capacity.
  • AKKA can carry 2,500 lane metres of freight and passenger vehicles.
  • Hibernia Line is headquartered in Cork and is supported by Goodman Group.

The company says the new route will offer a consistent option for both freight and passengers travelling between Ireland and mainland Europe.

Carus has been selected to provide a comprehensive IT suite for Hibernia Line. Carus will deploy its full portfolio including web booking, mobile applications, onboard point-of-sale, and integrated payment solutions.

Jan 10
Love2

New Kid on the Block? Hibernia Line

By 2025 Newsletter week 02

Hibernia Line is planning a new ferry service connecting Cork (Ringaskiddy), Ireland, with Boulogne-sur-Mer, France. The project is still in the planning phase.

Route and Frequency: The proposal outlines six weekly sailings, providing a direct connection between Ireland and northern France.

Vessels: Two RoPax ferries. (*)

Launch Timeline: The service aims to begin operations in 2025, pending further development. Insiders tell us 2026 is more realistic.

Strategic Importance: This project seeks to enhance Ireland’s connectivity to mainland Europe, bypassing the UK land bridge, especially in the context of post-Brexit logistics challenges.

Leadership: The project is spearheaded by Aidan Coffey, co-founder of DFDS Seaways Ireland, which successfully launched the Rosslare-Dunkerque route in 2021.

Website: https://hibernia-line.com/

(*) GNV has refuted claims regarding the potential charter or sale of its RoPax vessels, EXCELSIOR and EXCELLENT, to Hibernia Lines. Speaking to Ferry Shipping News, GNV clarified that these vessels are slated to remain in regular operation on their current routes. Both ships have recently undergone significant structural upgrades, enhancing their interiors and service usability as part of the company’s broader fleet renewal programme.