Passenger numbers on the rise at Portsmouth International Port

PASSENGER numbers are on the up at Portsmouth International Port, new figures reveal.
Portsmouth International PortPortsmouth International Port
Portsmouth International Port

Latest ‘Ferrystat’ figures from Discover Ferries, the industry group representing most UK ports and operators, show an overall increase of motorists using ferries – with 1.3 per cent more cars being carried in 2015. The Discover Ferries report also shows an increase of 3.4 per cent in the number of passengers on the western channel routes to France principally served by Brittany Ferries.

The operator, based at Portsmouth International Port, saw a rise in cars too, with the number of passenger vehicles carried up by 5.8 per cent, to 990,000 in 2015.

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The Discover Ferries report also highlights destinations such as the Channel Islands and Isle of Wight among the top-performing sector in 2015.

Reflecting on the figures, Bill Gibbons, director of Discover Ferries, said: ‘It demonstrates the broad reach and appeal of the ferry industry and how operators can work together in challenging times. We expect a further surge in customer interest when the industry comes together again to promote National Ferry Fortnight from March 5 to 19 with offers to appeal to ferry first timers, and those trying a new ferry route with their car for the first time.’

Staff at the city’s port are looking forward to National Ferry Fortnight and will promote ferry travel from ‘Britain’s Best Connected Port’ during its 40th anniversary.