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Are you a ferry first timer

Research reveals over 1.2 million Scots have never travelled by sea.

Are you a ferry first timer

Article Source: Stena Line
Last Updated: 7 June 2024 13:19

Once a proud global shipbuilding hub, it seems almost inconceivable that Scots could lose their sea legs, but surprising new research has found that more than 1.2million of us have never travelled by ferry.

The survey found that almost 23% of people living in Scotland have never sailed the high seas and that over 40% of us have not done so in the past five years.

Conducted by Swedish owned ferry company, Stena Line, the research shows our perception of ferry travel may be outdated with large numbers surprised by the extent of facilities onboard modern vessels.

For example, 45% of those questioned don’t expect to find a spa onboard while at sea, 37% are unaware they can watch the latest movies in a cinema and 28% do not realise your four-legged friend can enjoy the high seas in a pet cabin.

Travel journalist, TV presenter and broadcaster, Craig Doyle said the time is right for modern travellers to become ferry first timers and enjoy a level of comfort at sea which goes beyond all expectations.

Craig said: “I’m a regular ferry traveller with Stena Line as I go back and forth between the UK and Ireland, and I really couldn’t believe how many people hadn’t even tried it!

“I love just filling the car up with everything I need, with no airport stresses and then I’m just done! On board I treat it like a restaurant as well as my office, I also get a tremendous sense of calm and feel I have some much needed peace to get things done.

“I love the fact I can even walk on deck and look out to sea as you make your way, it’s such an enjoyable way to travel.

“The Stena Line survey also revealed that 58% of people in Scotland want to try something new on their holiday and that more than two-thirds of Scots feel accomplished after trying new things.

“I would urge anyone, who hasn’t travelled by sea before, or maybe has an outdated impression of what ferry travel is like, to try it this summer - I guarantee you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

“With tonnes of cool luxuries like the Stena Plus Lounge and Hygge Lounges, or being able to book a pet cabin, it’s a completely stress-free way to start your holiday.”


On the Belfast to Cairnryan Superfast ferries you can even enjoy a spa treatment and with 31% of those surveyed seeking comfort when travelling, ferry travel ticks a lot of boxes. With Duty Free shopping onboard many routes as well, passenger can even make a saving when buying their favourite treats on board too.

You can book the perfect car-cation, or even travel as a foot passenger, with daily crossings between Cairnryan and Belfast, Liverpool and Belfast, Holyhead and Dublin and Fishguard and Rosslare.

For more information and to book your next trip visit www.stenaline.co.uk

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