The project, informally known as “Project Brave”, was first proposed in 2022 but stalled due to a lack of funding. However, discussions on financing have reportedly resumed, raising hopes that the service may launch as planned.
The ferry would run three weekly return trips, with an estimated journey time of 20 hours—making it one of the longest ferry crossings in Europe. Currently, the longest continental ferry route is Portsmouth to Bilbao (27–30 hours).
According to local reports, Scottish MP Graeme Downie has stated that around £3 million (€3.61 million) in funding is needed to establish the service. He also noted that the route could initially transport 51,000 passengers annually, rising to 79,000 passengers, and contribute £11.5 million to Scotland’s economy.
The new connection would restore a direct maritime link between Scotland and mainland Europe, supporting both passenger and freight transport. DFDS previously operated a freight-only route between Rosyth and Zeebrugge until 2018, but the service was discontinued following a fire onboard a freight vessel.
The proposed Rosyth-Dunkirk route is expected to enhance trade and tourism, providing an alternative transport link between Scotland and the EU. However, despite renewed discussions, no final confirmation has been announced regarding the launch date.