24-Sep-2005

Harwich International Port today welcomes the first call of the new Nedlines BV’s Ro-Pax service. The service between the Essex port and IJmuiden in Holland is operated by the MS Envoy, and is chartered by Finnlines.

David Gledhill, Chief Operating Officer of Harwich International Port, welcomed the first call, commenting:

“The commencement of this new service reinforces Harwich International Port’s position as a major Ro/Ro freight gateway to Europe and Scandinavia. Nedlines have signed a five-year agreement with us, which is excellent news for shippers, who can now take advantage of an enhanced range of options from the Port, including the choice of 57 sailings in both directions each week.”

The service focuses on driver accompanied freight traffic, and offers a daily overnight sailing, giving customers an alternative route next to the existing ferry operators on the North Sea and the Channel. The MS Envoy is equipped with 70 modern cabins, a self service restaurant, bar, shop and truckers’ lounge, and can hold up to 200 passengers.

Jan Willem Doeksen, co-founder of Nedlines and CEO of Doeksen Transport Group, commented:

“I strongly believe in this new route between the UK and the Continent as an alternative service to the freight and passenger market, with excellent port infrastructure in Harwich as well as in IJmuiden”.

Nedlines BV is a joint venture between ferry operator Doeksen Transport Group BV, financial investor Schelling Investments BV, and project initiator Bart Cunnen.