Your holiday overseas starts at the ferry terminal

The Port of Dover has already exceeded its passenger numbers since Christmas, with 646,166 passengers travelling in January alone.

This has been attributed to fast check-in times, no restrictions on packing hand-luggage, and a more satisfying customer experience than some "no-frills" budget airlines have provided in the past.

Keith Southey, public relations manager for the Port of Dover, said: "The whole ferry travel experience has improved in recent years, with dedicated facilities for children in terms of play areas and video screens.

"The great advantage of ferry travel over other options is that you can enjoy the fresh air and sea views of the ferry journey as part of the holiday experience. You can also take a break during the journey to do some shopping and have a meal. It's very much part of the holiday experience, it's not just a means of getting from A to B."

As caravan and motorhome owners have already discovered, Keith Southey also praised ferry travel for its "freedom and flexibilty".

27/02/2008 11:33:27