Why the Campaign

Thousands of families in the UK, Scandinavia and Northern Germany are no longer able to visit family and friends, nor take a holiday with a vehicle without taking the long haul through northern Europe in order to reach destinations once much closer before September 2014. It often means the added cost of spending 1 or 2 nights in a hotel en route because of the congested roads and long delays. It is very stressful compared to a sea journey and usually means arriving exhausted at your destination, particularly those elderly travellers, who would much prefer a sea crossing which would enable us all to reach our destination far more quickly and more leisurely.

In addition, numerous school groups, those with special needs and health challenges, many clubs with special interests and links with their overseas members can no longer travel between the UK and Scandinavia by sea resulting in a huge loss to the tourist industry and the demise of the cultural interests built up over many years.

Today there is not one single route left across the North Sea between Scandinavia and the UK, which leaves an enormous market open to those operators who care to take on the challenge.

Other than flying, which most of these families choose not to do, the only alternative now is to travel through Northern Europe by car, in a motorhome, or with a caravan. A vehicle is essential if one wants to travel longer distances and tour, or visit family and friends for holidays, or for the festive season. Flying does not lend itself to large amounts of Christmas gifts or extended shopping purchases whilst overseas.


DFDS could not have put the reasons for the campaign any better.

From a recent advertising promotion:

Ferry Good Reasons to Travel by Sea.

Going on holiday abroad is all about excitement, new experiences and enjoying some time to rejuvenate. That means you want the whole process to be relaxing and easy, which, when you’re travelling by air, isn’t always possible. But there is an alternative. Ferry travel is all about unwinding onboard, whether that’s with some fresh air on deck, a delicious 3 course meal, or sitting back to enjoy a drink with friends.

Room to breathe

One of the best things about travelling by ferry is being able to walk around and stretch your legs. On a ferry you have decks of space to stroll through with large windows so you can enjoy the sea views. There’s also lots of different places to visit. You can have a wander through the shop, or get some fresh air on deck, making sure to keep an eye out for any wildlife swimming past!
Everything and the kitchen sink. Baggage restrictions can often feel, well, restrictive… On a ferry you can fill your car up with as much luggage as you like, from your favourite outfit to your hiking gear! Plus, there’s no need to worry about putting all your liquids into little plastic bags. It also means you can bring back all the souvenirs for your family, as well as some any treats you pick up for yourself while you’re away.

Food at sea

Say goodbye to microwave food with a peal back film! Ferry travel has the advantage of onboard restaurants and cafes, with some really special options on some routes. There are buffet restaurants for keeping every appetite happy, or cafés with light bites and great drinks, or full à la carte fine dining on longer routes.

Time to yourself

Having your own space and privacy is so important when you’re travelling. It gives you somewhere quiet to retire to and get some rest, if needed. On a ferry you have the option of private lounges, quiet areas, or you can even have your very own cabin on some routes.

In-flight entertainment

You no longer have to watch movies on a tiny screen set into a headrest! Ferries have actual cinemas (on our Newcastle to Amsterdam route), along with all sorts of other entertainment. You can enjoy a bit of live singing while sipping a cocktail, try your luck in the casino, or even relax in a hot tub with a sea view on our Copenhagen-Oslo route. The kids are well catered for too, with soft play areas and arcade gaming zones.

The onward journey

One of the biggest benefits of going by ferry is having your car with you. Not only does this make packing much easier, but it’s also so much more comfortable to have your own vehicle for your onward journey. It gives you the freedom to tailor your holiday exactly how you want. Plus, with your car you can keep the kids entertained, be that with a film on the tablet, a book to get stuck into, or just a good old game of I spy.