The ferry operator said the move will add two extra weekly round trips and provide more capacity and schedule flexibility for freight hauliers using the direct Ireland–France link. The third vessel will operate alongside Athena Seaways and Victoria Seaways, which are already deployed on the route.
According to DFDS, demand for direct transport links between Ireland and mainland Europe continues to support the case for additional capacity. The route has become part of Ireland’s post-Brexit freight network by allowing operators to move goods between Ireland and continental Europe without using the UK landbridge. DFDS originally launched the Rosslare–Dunkirk service in January 2021, shortly after Brexit, describing it at the time as a direct alternative for Ireland–Europe trade.
Owen Hides, Route Director at DFDS, said the company was “committed to supporting Ireland’s freight economy and enhancing connectivity between Ireland and continental Europe,” adding that the third vessel would provide “more capacity, improved schedule choice, and the reliability our customers expect from DFDS.”
Rosslare Europort also linked the expansion to the growth of the service since its launch. Glenn Carr, Director of Commercial Business Units at Iarnród Éireann, the port authority for Rosslare Europort, said the move to seven services each way per week “underlines the growth and success of the service since its launch in 2021”.
The route also carries passengers, and DFDS said the additional sailings would give holidaymakers more travel options during the autumn and winter season. However, the capacity increase is particularly relevant for freight operators moving between Ireland and France, Belgium, Germany and wider continental Europe.
The updated timetable is due to begin from mid-September. DFDS said bookings are available through its website.
