UK/EUROPE. A brand new ship from DFDS offering the largest duty free shopping space on cross-Channel routes has completed its maiden passenger voyage from Calais to Dover. The Côte d’Opale vessel’s retail area – named Duty Free Sea Shop – spans 1,100sq m.
As reported, the shopping area features a large central atrium with a skylight and includes separate wings for each product category in an open plan concept. Categories include perfumes & cosmetics, wine & spirits, luxury fashion and accessories, toys and consumer technology.
The food & beverage offer onboard includes three dining areas. The 7 Seas restaurant and Lighthouse Café serve leisure travellers, while commercial drivers have their own dedicated area in the Road Kings lounge and restaurant, with showers and rest areas specially-designed for drivers.
In addition, the ferry also incorporates the Premium Lounge, which offers an exclusive, laid-back space for passengers to enjoy a peaceful crossing.
DFDS On Board Commercial Director Steve Newbery told The Moodie Davitt Report: “Our planning for the new ship has been heavily influenced by the return of duty free and we’ve been able to design a brand new cross-Channel shopping experience that has not been seen before and is much more rounded.
“Rather than only offering the traditional beers, wines and spirits of the old days of duty free, we believe the modern traveller expects more and wants to make savings on as many products as possible.
“With so much more space available to us thanks to the duty free shop sitting at the heart of the new ship, we can now provide separate, dedicated spaces for each product category and offer much more choice, with a wider selection of products.”
DFDS said that the Côte d’Opale has been designed with the environment in mind, with an expected reduction in fuel consumption of around -25% compared to the current DFDS fleet.
With two engines instead of four, she will offer improvements in fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions and gives a service speed of 20-22 knots.
DFDS EVP & Head of Ferry Division Peder Gellert said: “As we return to a new and changed world, we are seeing a gradual return of normality within our ferry business – and we welcome Côte D’Opale to it. Her arrival is a signal. A signal that people can start to think about moving again.”
He added: “Moving is vital to a ferry and logistics company like DFDS. We do so, with people and planet in mind. With more capacity, greater operational efficiency, and a dedicated crew, we will ensure safe travel for passengers, reliable delivery of goods and a reduced impact to the environment.”
DFDS Vice President and Head of BU Channel Filip Hermann said: “The outbound ferry journey sets the scene for a traveller’s whole holiday experience.
“Customers today have higher expectations and the Côte d’Opale will exceed anything they have experienced before on this route.
“With excellent passenger and driver facilities, improved environmental impact and increased capacity, we are excited to welcome Côte d’Opale to Dover to launch a new era of cross channel ferry travel.”
Côte d’Opale was ordered by DFDS in April 2018 and has been built at the CMI Jinling Weihei shipyard in China.
DFDS will operate the ship for an initial ten years with an option to buy after that period.
Read more about the Côte d’Opale and Steve Newbery’s views on the return of duty free to cross-Channel routes from this review of his recent presentation and Q&A session at the Nordic Travel Retail Seminar here.
